Nestled deep in the French Pyrenees, Hautacam is not the most famous mountain in the Tour de France, but it is one of the most dramatic. With steep gradients and a relentless climb, Hautacam has earned its place in the hearts of cycling fans and has become a proving ground for climbers and champions alike.
A Mountain Made for Drama
First introduced to the Tour de France in 1994, Hautacam is relatively new compared to legendary climbs like Mont Ventoux or Alpe d’Huez. But what it lacks in history, it makes up for in character. The ascent to Hautacam is around 13.6 kilometers (8.4 miles) long, with an average gradient of 7.8%, though many sections are steeper. It’s not a steady, predictable climb—instead, it twists and turns, with sudden ramps that punish riders who can’t adapt quickly.
This irregularity makes Hautacam a favorite spot for explosive attacks and decisive moments in the race. Cyclists can’t just settle into a rhythm—they have to fight for every meter.
Landmark Moments
Over the years, Hautacam has hosted several unforgettable Tour de France finishes. In 1996, Bjarne Riis launched a solo assault that led him to victory on the climb and eventually to the yellow jersey—though his win is now clouded by admitted doping.
In 2014, Vincenzo Nibali stamped his authority on the Tour with a powerful solo win atop Hautacam during Stage 18, further cementing his control of the general classification. That ride became one of the defining moments of his Tour-winning campaign.
More recently, the 2022 Tour de France brought another iconic battle to Hautacam. Jonas Vingegaard and Tadej Pogačar fought a fierce duel on the slopes, but in the final kilometers, Vingegaard dropped his rival and claimed a decisive stage win—showing both tactical brilliance and sportsmanship, especially after he waited for Pogačar following a near-crash earlier on the descent.
What Makes Hautacam Unique?
Unlike climbs that appear almost every year, Hautacam is used sparingly. Its inclusion is always deliberate—reserved for moments when the race organizers want to shake up the standings or test the riders to their limits. Its quiet power and unpredictable nature make it a hidden gem in the Tour’s mountainous crown.
