A 5-star road to Col d'Ares in the Pyrenees
Coll d'Ares-Col d'Ares is an international high mountain pass at an elevation of 1,513m (4,964ft) above sea level, located in the Pyrenees on the border between France and Spain.
Where is Coll d'Ares-Col d'Ares?
The pass links the Pyrénées-Orientales department in the Occitania region of southern France with the comarca of Ripollès in Girona, Catalonia, in the northern part of Spain.
Is the road to Coll d'Ares-Col d'Ares paved?
The road to the summit is fully paved. On the French side, the road is called D115, while on the Spanish side, it is known as C38. The pass was crossed once by Le Tour de France in 1968.
Starting from Prats-de-Mollo-La-Preste, the ascent is 13.06 km (8.1 miles) long, with an elevation gain of 875 meters (2,871ft). The average gradient is 6.6%. The descent via the D115 road is long and steep—make sure to wrap up well and ensure your brakes are working properly.
What is the driving experience like on Coll d'Ares-Col d'Ares?
The road to the pass is wide, well-paved, and offers room for beginners. The pass’s name is not derived from the ancient Greek god of war but from eagles. Keep in mind that there are other passes in the Pyrenees with the same or similar name.
Crossing the pass provides breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and mountains, especially in the higher regions. Traffic is low on this route. At the pass itself, you will find only a few closed shops, making it a peaceful spot. This pass is an excellent route to cross the border between France and Spain, offering access to many other beautiful roads nearby on the Spanish side.
What other passes can you cross near Coll d'Ares?
When crossing this pass, you also encounter two additional passes:
- Coll de la Seille
- Coll de la Guilla
Both passes are clearly marked with signs along the road.
What should you know about Prats-de-Mollo-La-Preste?
Approaching from France, you’ll pass through Prats-de-Mollo-La-Preste, a charming medieval village with narrow lanes and historic architecture. You’ll face a crossroads with two choices: continue on the D115 or explore the old lanes of the village. Opting for the latter is highly recommended—it’s a delightful maze of narrow streets. However, it’s easy to lose your way, which may lead you to the D115A and eventually to La Preste Les Bains. This detour offers a beautiful alternative route.
Are there fuel stations or safety concerns?
In Prats-de-Mollo-La-Preste, you’ll find the last fuel station before crossing into Spain. Once on the Spanish side, the road, now called C-38, declines much faster than the incline on the French side. Use your engine brake to maintain control until you reach the village of Camprodon.
The pavement on the Spanish side is notably better than on the French side, a common trend when comparing roads in both countries. Despite being a major traffic line, the road is so wide that even 40-ton trucks can pass each other easily. However, be cautious as guardrails are sparse along this stretch.
Road suggested by: Michael Spannlang