It is the highest international border crossing in the Alps.
The pass was significantly improved and widened in the 1970s to facilitate tourism and transport.
The French side is part of the Queyras Regional Natural Park, a protected area known for its biodiversity.
It is a frequent transit point for cyclists attempting the 'Route des Grandes Alpes'.
The summit offers a distinct view of the Monte Viso massif, the highest peak in the Cottian Alps.
Col Agnel is a high mountain pass in the Cottian Alps reaching an elevation of 2,744 meters. It serves as a natural border crossing between the Queyras region of France and the Varaita Valley in Italy. As the third-highest paved road pass in the Alps, it is frequently featured as a challenging climb in the Giro d'Italia and the Tour de France. The route connects the French commune of Molines-en-Queyras to the Italian town of Casteldelfino. Snow accumulation typically renders the pass inaccessible to vehicles for the majority of the year. The landscape is defined by stark, high-altitude alpine meadows and rocky peaks rather than trees. Due to its extreme altitude, the pass experiences unpredictable weather, including heavy fog and sudden drops in temperature even in mid-summer.
The international border line marker at the very summit of the pass.
Check local road conditions via the French 'Inforoute' or Italian 'ANAS' websites before starting your ascent.
Wear layered clothing, as temperatures at 2,744 meters are significantly lower than in the valley towns.
Ensure your vehicle's brakes are in optimal condition for the steep, technical descent on both sides.
Attempting the crossing with a heavy caravan or large motorhome, as the road features extremely tight hairpin turns.
The pass is closed to all traffic during the winter and spring months due to snow; typically opens only between June and October.
Cyclists have right of way on the narrowest sections; motor vehicles should maintain a slow, respectful pace.
