Made famous primarily by the Tour de France, which first ventured into this mountain range in 1910, but also the Vuelta a España, the Pyrénées arguably offer one of the greatest cycling challenges in Europe. With iconic climbs that are often steeper than their Alpine counterparts, the riding is nothing short of spectacular.

Geographically further south than the Alps, it’s generally warmer in this region. The Pyrénées also benefit from great roads that are quieter than the Alps. With varying terrain featuring stunning views and epic climbing and descending the Pyrénées should be on every road cyclists’ bucket list.

Tour details

With so many passes to choose from we will put together routes to suit each group’s ability. We can cater for those riding in the mountains for the first time to much more experienced riders who want to tackle Tour-like routes. Rides are flexible and will typically be 50-165km ascending up to a total of 2-3,000m. 

We’ll be staying in a choice of three beautiful Gites close to many mountain climbs. The owners of the Gite, Shaun & Benj, are absolutely amazing and can’t wait to welcome you there in 2024. 

The Terrain

With quieter roads than the Alps (except for when the circus of the Tour comes to town!) and a rugged charm all of their own, the Pyrénées have something special to offer. The added bonus of the Pyrénées is that you have the opportunity to cycle both in Spain and France during the same ride. 

You’ll need to be prepared for the weather. Even in the middle of summer it can be a little unpredictable up in the mountains, although any rain tends to pass through pretty quickly. 

The Pyrénées are no doubt a climbers’ paradise, so pack fresh climbing legs, and get ready for some fast descents. 

Sample Long Weekend Itinerary

Day 1 (Thursday/Friday morning):

• First flights out from UK airports
• Pick up from local airports (Toulouse, Carcassonne, and Perpignan all have regular flights from the UK)
• Settle in with a fresh coffee/tea
• Ride after lunch 30-55km
• Shower and freshen up before dinner

Day 2

• 8:30am Breakfast
• 9:30am Ride 50-140km (level dependent) taking in iconic climbs and up to 8,000 feet of climbing
• Cafe & lunch stop on ride
• 3pm-4pm (approx) return
• 7pm Dinner 

Day 3

• 8:30am Breakfast
• 9:30am Ride 60-95km (level dependent) taking in iconic climbs and up to 8-10,000 feet of climbing
• Cafe & lunch stop on ride
• 3pm-4pm (approx) return
• 7pm Dinner 

Day 4 (Sunday/Monday evening)

• 8:30am Breakfast
• 9:30am Ride 60-95km (level dependent) taking in many iconic climbs and up to 8,000 feet of climbing
• Cafe & lunch stop on ride 
• 3pm-4pm (approx) return 
• Rest and pack bikes for late flight home
• Last flight return Sunday or Monday night

Tour dates

Ideally April-September (see our Tour de France trips for July). However it is possible in March and October, but at the higher elevation mountain passes snow is always likely.

What’s included

• Airport transfers
• 3-4* accommodation
• Breakfast
• Goods in transit insurance!
• Guided rides
• Great friendly company
• Bike storage
• Basic level 1 mechanics
• Bike stand & track pump

What’s not included

• Flights
• Cafe & lunch stops, (believe me it’s not expensive!)
• Dinner & drinks
• Insurance – we recommend Pedal Cover for both your bike and in case of an accident
• Bike spares/parts extra if required

Cost: £475 per person for 4 days or £895 per person for the week