Hourquette d'Ancizan

# Hourquette d'Ancizan: A Pyrenean Gem for Road Enthusiasts

Nestled in the French Pyrenees in Hautes-Pyrénées, the Hourquette d'Ancizan sits at a respectable 1,564 meters (5,131 feet) and offers two distinct routes to the top, each with its own personality.

**The Longer Climb from Campan**

Starting from Campan, you're looking at a 22.6 km ascent that'll gain you 904 meters of elevation. It's a more gradual affair with an average gradient of just 4%, though sections do kick up to 11% to keep things interesting. The road—D113—is paved throughout, though it's definitely on the narrow side with some legitimately steep pitches.

**The Shorter but Spicier Route from Ancizan**

If you're feeling spicy, the Ancizan side is only 10.33 km but doesn't mess around. You'll climb 805 meters with a punchy 7.8% average gradient and max out at 12%—this one's definitely more intense. Same narrow asphalt, but expect your calves to know about it.

**Cool Details**

The pass has earned its stripes as a Tour de France climb, and the French have helpfully placed kilometer markers all along both routes. These milestones show you exactly how far you've come, how much further to go, and what gradients are lurking ahead—super handy for planning your pace.

Whether you choose the patient grind from Campan or the spicy sprint from Ancizan, you're in for some stunning Pyrenean scenery with roads that'll test your mettle.