The Col Agnel, the second-highest pass in the French Alps, is the gateway from the Queyras Regional Nature Park to the Val Varaita in Piedmont. A pass dominated by imposing peaks: the Taillante ridge, Pain de Sucre, Pic d'Asti and Mont Viso.
Located at the far end of the Aigue Agnelle Valley in the Queyras Regional Nature Park, the Col d’Agnel is a must-see for cycling enthusiasts; it is regularly traversed by riders in the Italian “Giro.” You can stop for a refreshing break at the Agnel mountain hut before reaching the Col Agnel at 2,744 m, the only road link between the Queyras and Italy. From there, the Val Varaïta unfolds before you from this magnificent viewpoint. From Europe’s highest border pass, the view of Mount Viso is exceptional; it’s also the starting point for numerous hikes leading to the Foréant, Egorgéou, and Baricle lakes. And in winter, the road is closed, so we reach it under our own steam (using snowshoes, cross-country skis, or touring skis). Armed with a “Pass Évasion” pass, let’s head for the pass!