Top 8 Mountain Passes around Chaum
Best mountain passes near Chaum are found within a region characterized by its mountainous terrain. This area offers various passes that cater to different levels of activity, from challenging climbs to easier routes. The landscape features valleys, forests, and elevated viewpoints. These passes serve as routes connecting different valleys and provide access to hiking opportunities.
Best mountain passes around Chaum
- The most popular mountain passes is Menté Pass, a mountain pass that connects the Garonne valley to the Ger…
Last updated: June 26, 2026
Menté Pass
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Col des Ares
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More information: quaeldich.de/paesse/col-des-ares
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Buret Pass
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The pass is the starting point for beautiful hikes towards the Cagire.
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Ascent of the Col de Menté from Lez
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Ascent of the Port de Balès from Mauléon-Barousse
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Tips from the Community
A beautiful transitional port between the Le Ger river valley and the Garonne river valley
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Beautiful climb up Col de Menté. Although not a really famous climb it is a beautiful one, with nice hairpins inside the forest and beautiful views at the end.
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Also, stop at the Là Soulan hostel for a well-deserved break. Very warm welcome. 👍
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From Mauléon-Barousse, this 19-kilometer hors catégorie climb is completed in three stages. The first seven kilometers are fairly straightforward, then the next seven become more complicated, before culminating in a grand finale with the last five at over 9%. Even more so than on other passes, the key here is economy.
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From Lez, the ascent of the Col de Menté is classified as first-class, with nine kilometers at an average gradient of 8.7%. Its fairly steady gradient allows you to find your own pace.
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One of the mythical Pyrenean ports of the Tour de France, known largely for the tragic fall of Luis Ocaña in the 1971 Tour when he was leading the general classification. Its 2 aspects have a lot of crumbs: - west slope that starts from Saint Béat: it is the hardest. It is 9.7 km with an average slope of 8.7%. It is a very constant climb, with a small break when passing through Boux. The first part is a little harder and uglier since you barely have any views and you go up through the middle of a valley. The final part is spectacular with its many horseshoe curves, good panoramic views and the monument to the place where Luis Ocaña fell. - east slope: it is longer, with an initial section of 7 km very winding with a slope of 4%. It also has a break in its intermediate zone. Once the hard part starts, it is also very constant, like the west slope, although the average slope is 7-8%. This aspect has even more twists than the previous one. For more information, consult the profile published by cylcingcols.com -- > http://www.cyclingcols.com/col/Mente
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Magnificent view for the climb to the pass from Artichan-de-Frontignes, however I found the climb on the other side (from the Col de Buret) more interesting because it was a little longer.
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Nice little pass between the Garonne valley and the Ger valley. More information: https://www.quaeldich.de/paesse/col-des-ares/
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which mountain passes around Chaum are best for challenging cycling routes?
For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, the Menté Pass is highly recommended. Its ascent from Saint-Béat is 9.3 kilometers long with an average gradient of 9.13%, featuring sections over 11%. Another demanding option is the Ascent of the Port de Balès from Mauléon-Barousse, an 'hors catégorie' climb spanning 19 kilometers with a steep final five kilometers.
Are there any easier mountain passes suitable for a more relaxed experience?
Yes, the Buret Pass is described as a small, easy pass. It's located after Aspet and leads towards the Ares Pass, making it a good option for those looking for a less strenuous ride or a gentle introduction to the region's passes.
What kind of views can I expect from the mountain passes in Chaum?
Many passes offer stunning panoramas. For instance, the Col des Ares, culminating at 797 meters, provides a lovely panorama over the Garonne valley from the heights of Fronsac. The more challenging passes like Port de Balès also offer beautiful views towards their summits, often winding through forests with hairpin turns.
What outdoor activities can I do near the mountain passes around Chaum?
The region around Chaum's mountain passes is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for road cycling, gravel biking, and mountain biking. For detailed routes, explore the guides for Road Cycling Routes around Chaum, Gravel biking around Chaum, and MTB Trails around Chaum.
Are there hiking opportunities near these mountain passes?
Absolutely. The Buret Pass, for example, serves as an excellent starting point for hikes towards the Cagire mountain range. Many of the passes are integrated into broader trail networks, offering access to various hiking experiences.
What is the best time of year to visit the mountain passes around Chaum?
The best time to visit is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to October) when the weather is most favorable for cycling and hiking. During these months, the passes are typically clear of snow, and the temperatures are pleasant for outdoor activities. Always check local weather conditions before your visit, especially for higher passes.
What makes the Menté Pass particularly notable for cyclists?
The Menté Pass is renowned among cyclists for its challenging ascents and its permanent place in Tour de France history. Routes like the one from Lez are classified as first-class, with a steady gradient that allows riders to find their pace, and it features beautiful hairpin turns within the forest.
Are there any mountain passes that offer a good starting point for longer tours?
The Buret Pass is often mentioned as a small intermediate pass on the way to the Col des Ares, suggesting it can be part of a longer cycling or hiking itinerary connecting multiple passes. Its relatively easy nature makes it a good entry point for extended explorations.
What are the typical gradients on the more difficult ascents in the region?
The more challenging ascents feature significant gradients. For instance, the Menté Pass from Saint-Béat has an average gradient of 9.13% with sections exceeding 11%. The Port de Balès culminates with its final five kilometers at over 9%.
How popular are the mountain passes around Chaum with other visitors?
The mountain passes around Chaum are highly appreciated by the komoot community. They have collectively received more than 150 upvotes and visitors have shared over 49 photos, indicating a vibrant and engaged community enjoying these routes and viewpoints.
Can I find circular routes that incorporate these mountain passes?
Yes, many of the nearby routes are designed as loops. For example, you can find a 'Col des Ares – Buret Pass loop' for road cycling or a 'Port de Balès – Port de Balès loop' for gravel biking. These circular routes allow you to experience the passes as part of a comprehensive tour. Check the specific route guides for more details.
What is the altitude of the Col des Ares?
The Col des Ares culminates at an altitude of 797 meters above sea level. It's located on the heights of the village of Fronsac.
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