When Le Grand Depart 2026 announced the 3 stages that would take place in Catalonia, we all had a look at the first big mountain pass which was included in stage 3: Granollers-Les Angles. It was the climb to la Collada de Toses, a historical mountain pass in Catalonia.
Collada de Toses is a very known pass connecting the Bergueda region with Cerdanya region, which capital is Puigcerdà. This is a 50 km long road (about 25 km from Ribes de Freser and other 25 km from Puigcerdà). It is a very mild climb on both sides, amazing views overlooking the valley, usually with very little traffic. Since the Tunel del Cadi was open in 1984, it took most of the traffic off the Collada de Toses, reducing dramatically the time driving between Barcelona and Puigcerdà.
On top there is a Hotel (Hotel La Collada), a usual place for skiers in winter. And a little less crowded hotel in summer, even if there are plenty of activities to do in the high mountains surrounding.
But then, as we locals know, and Tour de France got to know as well of course, there is a shortcut half way the climb from Ribes de Freser. This road is indicated to Fornells de la Selva and Toses (village). Once taken this road there is a narrow and little road, a few km of descent and then the climb about 9 km long with the last 4 km very steep (at about %). This is the way that Tour de France took the riders on the third stage of Le Tour 2026.
We were lucky enough to watch live this stage 3, and honestly, the atmosphere was amazing! As a proper 1st category climb, it was supercrowded. Everybody was cheering the cyclists and leaving them just a narrow corridor to pass through.
What a great climb and what a great experience!
