European ski instructor and outdoor content creator Marius Quast has put together a ranking of the five most demanding and iconic road bike climbs featured throughout Tour de France history, pulling from routes that stretch across the high Alps, the Provence region and the Pyrenees.
The list opens with the Col du Galibier, sitting at 2,642 meters and offering views toward Mont Blanc. Riders typically begin in Saint Michel de Maurienne and pass over the Col du Telegraphe before tackling the exposed high alpine terrain that defines the final push to the summit.
Next up is Mont Ventoux, often called the “Giant of Provence.” While technically not a mountain pass, it has become one of the most mythologized climbs in Tour de France lore. The most famous route begins in Bedoin, winding through forest before opening into the barren, moon-like landscape near the summit that leaves riders fully exposed to sun and wind.
The Col de l’Iseran claims the title of highest pass on the list at 2,764 meters. The climb from Val d’Isere starts gently through green meadows and waterfalls before transitioning into a stark, high-altitude environment marked by snowfields and a small chapel at the summit. The Tour de France has previously been forced to alter routes here due to summer snowfall.
The Col du Tourmalet earns its spot as one of the most historically significant Pyrenean climbs, having featured in the race for roughly a century. Riders can approach from either side, both long and difficult, finishing at a statue commemorating the pass’s storied past.
Rounding out the list is Alpe d’Huez, widely regarded as the most iconic climb in the sport. Known for its 21 switchbacks and massive crowds during the Tour, the climb starts aggressively out of Le Bourg d’Oisans with grades exceeding 13 percent right from the base. The Dutch Corner remains one of the loudest and most chaotic viewing spots in professional cycling.