Pont d'Urdos Route du Col Mountain Pass in the Pyrenees

The Pont d'Urdos Route du Col is situated in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region of France, within the Pyrenees mountain range. The road starts near the village of Borce and extends through mountainous terrain, reaching elevations up to 1,622 meters (5,322 feet). It skirts the Parc national des Pyrénées, a protected area known for its diverse flora and fauna. This road is part of a network that crosses the Pyrenees, connecting various small settlements and natural landmarks. An interactive map showing the road section discussed in this article is available at the end.

The road is approximately 18.3 kilometers (11.4 miles) long and primarily paved with asphalt. The surface quality is moderate, rated around 3.3 out of 5, indicating some wear but generally suitable for motorcycling. The road width is predominantly wide (about 79%), with the remainder being middle width (about 20%). It mostly consists of two lanes (about 86%), with a small portion being single lane (around 6%).

Curviness is moderate, rated at 1.27 on a scale where 3 is extremely curvy, so riders can expect a mix of gentle and sharper bends. Speed limits vary along the route, with maximum speeds of 80, 50, 90, and 70 km/h (50, 31, 56, and 44 mph respectively), reflecting changes in road conditions and terrain.

The road crosses the Borne 305bis mountain pass, a notable elevation point along the route. This pass is part of the Pyrenees, a major mountain range forming a natural border between France and Spain. The road's elevation ranges from 639 meters (2,096 feet) at its lowest point to 1,622 meters (5,322 feet) at its highest, providing varied riding conditions and panoramic views.

The route touches the Parc national des Pyrénées, a national park known for its rugged landscapes and protected ecosystems. This proximity to the park means riders may encounter natural viewpoints and areas of ecological interest along the way.

Along the Pont d'Urdos Route du Col, there are several viewpoints offering opportunities to appreciate the surrounding mountain scenery. These viewpoints are accessible from the road and provide rest stops for riders to take in the landscape. The road also passes through or near small settlements such as Pont d'Urdos and Pont de Larry, which may offer local amenities.

For more information about the national park and the Pyrenees mountain range, riders can consult resources such as the Parc national des Pyrénées Wikipedia page and the Pyrenees Wikipedia page.

The road section described here is suitable for motorcyclists looking for a moderately challenging mountain pass ride with a mix of road widths and moderate curviness. The asphalt surface quality is adequate but riders should remain cautious, especially in sections with lower speed limits. The road passes through inhabited areas about 20% of its length, so attention to local traffic is advised.

There are no specific tolls or entrance fees associated with this road, but conditions may change, so riders should verify current regulations before travel. For general information on road tolls in France, the official government website provides updates and details.

This article focuses on the road section visible on the map below, providing a comprehensive overview for motorcyclists planning a ride in this part of the Pyrenees.