Port d'Envalira facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Port d'Envalira |
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| Envalira Pass | |
Port d'Envalira
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| Elevation | 2408 m |
| Location | Encamp, Andorra |
| Range | Pyrenees |
| Coordinates | 42°32′24.2″N 1°43′10.58″E / 42.540056°N 1.7196056°E |
 Port d'Envalira
Location in Andorra
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Port d'Envalira is a famous mountain pass located high up in the Pyrenees mountains. It's in the small country of Andorra. This pass connects the town of El Pas de la Casa with the rest of Andorra. It's special because it's the highest paved road you can find in the entire Pyrenees mountain range.
Imagine riding a bike or driving a car up to 2,408 meters (about 7,900 feet) above sea level! That's how high Port d'Envalira is. Because of its challenging climb, it has been part of major cycling races like the Tour de France and the Vuelta a España many times.
What is a Mountain Pass?
A mountain pass is like a natural gap or a low point between two mountains or ridges. It's the easiest way to travel from one side of a mountain range to the other. For centuries, people have used these passes for trade, travel, and even armies. They help connect different valleys and regions.
The Envalira Tunnel
Going over a high mountain pass can be tough, especially in bad weather like snow or ice. To make travel easier and safer, a special tunnel was built. Construction on this toll tunnel started in 1999 and it opened for traffic in 2002.
The Envalira Tunnel is located at an altitude of about 2,000 meters (6,560 feet). It is nearly 3 kilometers (about 1.8 miles) long. This tunnel allows drivers to avoid the highest and often most difficult parts of the Port d'Envalira road, especially during winter.
Cycling Challenges
The climb up Port d'Envalira is a big test for professional cyclists. When it's included in races like the Tour de France, it's often one of the toughest climbs of the race. Cyclists have to pedal hard uphill for many kilometers, dealing with steep slopes and thin air at high altitudes. Finishing this climb is a huge achievement for any cyclist.
See also
- List of highest paved roads in Europe
- Souvenir Henri Desgrange
