Les Marmotes: Driving the 25% Gradients of Vallter 2000

Les Marmotes is a high-altitude destination at an elevation of 2,502m (8,208ft) above sea level, located in the heart of the Pyrenees in the province of Girona, Catalonia. Reaching this point, situated within the Camprodon Valley, requires navigating a brutal service road that climbs through the Vallter 2000 ski resort. It's one of the highest roads in the country.

Where is Les Marmotes located?

The track is located in the Ripollès region, near the French border. It leads to a small hut bar at the summit—one of the highest in the Pyrenees—offering basic food and breathtaking views. Just a few meters away from the summit lies the "Naixement del Río Ter" (the source of the Ter River), a stunning natural landmark.

Driving the Ski-Lift Service Road

This is not a public road but a specialized service track used for the maintenance of the chairlift. It is widely considered one of the toughest climbs in the country due to its technical difficulty.

Distance and Elevation: Starting from the parking area of the Vallter 2000 ski station (2,180m), the road is 2.3 km (1.4 miles) long. In this short distance, the elevation gain is 322 meters, resulting in a brutal average gradient of nearly 14%.
Maximum Slopes: The track includes several narrow and steep sections with ramps reaching a staggering 25% gradient.
Surface: The path is unpaved, extremely rocky, and slippery. It follows the ski pistes, requiring high-clearance 4x4 vehicles and experienced drivers. Low-range gearing is essential to handle the loose stones and steep inclines.

When is Les Marmotes accessible?

Due to its extreme altitude, the road is passable only during the summer months. It is brutally tough and can be closed at any time due to sudden snowfalls or summer thunderstorms. Because it is a service road for the ski resort, access may be restricted to maintenance vehicles or authorized tours; always check local regulations before attempting the drive.