Crossing the Pyrenees by bike: itineraries, passes and tips

Crossing the Pyrenees by bike is a captivating challenge that attracts cyclists and adventurers in search of magnificent landscapes, mythical climbs and total immersion in the mountain world. Whether you are drawn to the idea of climbing the legendary passes of the Pyrenees, following a marked route between the Mediterranean and the Atlantic, or building your own tailor-made course, this adventure offers endless possibilities.

So how do you prepare it properly? When to leave? Should we start with the ocean or with the sea? Which stopover cities should you prefer, which passes to choose, and how to adjust the stages to your level? In this comprehensive guide, we answer all your questions to help you chart your ideal route and, why not, accompany you on this adventure as a local specialist in road cycling trips in the Pyrenees. Discover our advice, our detailed itineraries and all the keys to make your crossing of the Pyrenees a memorable experience in your cycling life 🤩

Building your crossing of the Pyrenees by bike: period, itinerary, passes and stop towns

Before embarking on the unique adventure of Crossing the Pyrenees by bike, it is essential to think about several things: what is the best time to leave? Where do you start? What level of difficulty do you want to overcome? Here is everything you need to know to prepare a course adapted to your project and live this unforgettable experience.

In what period should the Pyrenees Crossing be carried out?

The majority of Pyrenean passes open at the beginning of June, and the ideal period to undertake this crossing is from June to September. July and August are the hottest months, but also the busiest. To take advantage of quieter conditions and pleasant temperatures, June and September are often preferable. ☀️

Whatever the period chosen, the Crossing of the Pyrenees is one of these adventures, of these itineraries that leave a profound impression. This unique massif leaves a lasting impression, both by the beauty of its landscapes and by the intense emotions it provides!

Choose your itinerary: Departure from the Mediterranean or from the Ocean?

You have two main options:

• From the Mediterranean : Collioure is an iconic starting point with its historic charm and beaches. Access is convenient by train or car with several parking options.

You attack quietly through the Eastern Pyrenees by fairly regular passes, without high percentages. It's great for those who prefer to go crescendo. 🚴 ‍ ♂️

• From the ocean : Saint-Jean-de-Luz, Hendaye or even Biarritz are popular choices. These cities offer a typical Basque atmosphere, infrastructure adapted for bicycle travelers and convenient access.

After a rather gentle and hilly introduction to get away from the shores of the Ocean, it's time for serious business with the Basque passes! 💪 These first passes of the Pyrenean Massif are renowned for their legendary stiffness, often considered to be the hardest of the crossing. Perfect for keen cyclists and adventurous riders who are not afraid to attack at the foot of the wall! 🚴 ‍ ♂️ But be careful: here, effort management will be your best ally. 😉

How to choose the difficulty of the stages of your crossing of the Pyrenees by bike?

The crossing of the Pyrenees represents a minimum 800 km for 18,000 m of positive altitude difference. The classic version lasts 8 days with stages around 100 km and an average of 2,000 mD+. You can also adapt the itinerary and the daily stages according to your level, the time you have to train and your experience:

• 3 to 5 days : for seasoned athletes and those who have few holidays.
• 10 to 15 days : for a more contemplative approach and those who have time 😉

Just a little lower in the article, we offer 2 examples of stays and classic itineraries in 8 days passing through the biggest passes and the most beautiful corners of the Pyrenees.

There is no one “right” way to cross the Pyrenees by bike. There is yours. And for this, the possibilities are numerous, we can with pleasure assist you, do not hesitate to contact us !

Choose stopover cities and towns to cross

Here are some mythical cities where you can stop for the night or just take a break:

• Prades : Located at the foot of the majestic Canigou, Prades is an essential first step to attack the Col de Jau and the wild landscapes of the Eastern Pyrenees.
• Ax-les-Thermes : Renowned for its thermal waters, Ax-les-Thermes offers a moment of respite before climbing the Port of Pailhères or the Chioula Pass, emblematic climbs of the Pyrenean massif.
• Loudervielle : Nestled in the heart of the mountains, this picturesque village marks a welcome break after the Peyresourde pass and before continuing to the peaks of the Hautes-Pyrénées.
• Arreau : This charming town is located strategically between two mythical passes, the Aspin and the Hourquette d'Ancizan, real jewels of the Pyrenean stages.
• Luz-Saint-Sauveur : At the foot of the formidable Col du Tourmalet, Luz-Saint-Sauveur is an essential stop to recharge your batteries before continuing to Luz Ardiden or the Col des Tentes.
• lourdes : Much more than a spiritual center, Lourdes is a strategic stop not far from the Col de Soulor and the Aubisque, two legendary passages of the Tour de France.
• Oloron-Sainte-Marie : En route to the Basque Country, Oloron-Sainte-Marie stands proudly at the foot of the Marie-Blanque Pass, known for its demanding slopes and sumptuous panoramas.
• Argelès-Gazost : Located at the intersection of the mythical Soulor and Hautacam passes, Argelès-Gazost is an ideal stopover to enjoy the spectacular panoramas of the Central Pyrenees.
• Bagnères-de-Luchon : Known for its thermal baths and its cycling atmosphere, Bagnères-de-Luchon is an essential stopover before facing climbs such as the Port of Balès or the Col de Peyresourde.
• Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port: A city steeped in history, Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port is an essential stop before crossing the Iraty passes and starting the last portion of this great Pyrenean crossing.
• Espelette : A few kilometers from the Atlantic Ocean, Espelette offers a bucolic setting to celebrate the last stages, with its hilly landscapes and its typical Basque atmosphere.

Choose the passes you want to climb

Mythical passes: Tourmalet, Aubisque, Peyresourde

• Col du Tourmalet (2115m)
  The Tourmalet, nicknamed the “Giant of the Pyrenees”, is the pass most often climbed in the Tour de France. From Luz-Saint-Sauveur, you will face 19 km at 7.4% with passages of more than 10%. The climb offers spectacular views of the Bareges and Mongie valleys. At the top, a breathtaking panorama of the surrounding peaks and the iconic statue of the cyclist await you. This mythical pass is a legend for any cycling enthusiast.
• Col d'Aubisque (1709m)
  From Laruns, the climb of 16.6 km at 7.2% is a classic of Pyrenean stages. Once at the top, a natural balcony opens onto breathtaking landscapes, overlooking the green valleys. Aubisque is famous for its “Corniche” connecting the Col du Soulor, an impressive road where cliffs and pastures mingle. It is a climb marked by the history of cycling, where the biggest names have distinguished themselves.
• Peyresourde pass (1569m)
  Located between the Aure and Louron valleys, this pass has been climbed since 1910 in the Tour de France. From Arreau, 15.2 km at 6.1% await you, with magnificent views of the pastures and the Loudenvielle valley. Once at the top, the rapid descent to Peyragudes is a pure treat for thrill seekers.

Additional gems: Spandelles, Luz Ardiden, Bourquette d'Ancizan, Col des Tentes (Gavarnie)

• Col de Spandelles (1378m)
  Discovered by the Tour de France in 2022, this secret pass offers a wild and demanding ascent from Ferrières: 10 km at 8.3%. The narrow road winds through dense forests and meadows where cows are your only spectators. At the top, absolute calm and a view of the surrounding mountains will reward you for your efforts.
• Luz Ardiden (1715m)
  This iconic climb of the Tour de France, with 14 km at 7.5%, is known for its hairpin turns and panoramas. From Luz-Saint-Sauveur, the ascent takes you to a ski resort with an impressive view of the surrounding peaks. Famous names like Miguel Indurain and Tadej Pogacar have triumphed there.
• Ancizan fork (1564m)
  From Ancizan, this 10.3 km pass at 7.8% is a real challenge. The road crosses pastoral landscapes and offers incredible views of the Aure Valley. It is a popular route for cycling enthusiasts, combining difficulty and natural beauty.
• Col des Tentes (2208m)
  From Gavarnie, this spectacular climb of 30 km at 5% takes you to the highest point of your crossing. Once at the top, the view of the Cirque de Gavarnie, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is simply magical. The lunar landscapes and the silence of the mountains make it a unique moment.

Other Pyrenean jewels:

• Col de la Pierre Saint-Martin (1765m)
  From the Soudet pass, the final climb of 4 km at 6.4% takes you to breathtaking rocky landscapes. This historic pass, where Christopher Froome won in 2015, marks the border with Spain.
• Hautacam (Tramassel Pass, 1635m)
  A daunting climb of 16 km at 7.4%, punctuated by irregular slopes. From Argelès-Gazost, this climb is a real test of your legs and your mind. The summit offers a spectacular view of the valley and the surrounding peaks.
• Troumouse Circus (1830m)
  From Gèdre, a climb of 27 km at 5% plunges you into the largest natural circus in the Pyrenees. The last 3 kilometers, at more than 15%, test your abilities, but the reward is a 360° panorama of the rock faces and nearby peaks.
• Col de Pailhères (2001m)
  From Ax-les-Thermes, this 18.6 km climb at 6.7% winds through alpine meadows and offers breathtaking views at the summit. The spectacular hairpin bends make it one of the most beautiful climbs in the Pyrenees.
• Beille Plateau (1767m)
  From Les Cabannes, the 16 km climb at 7.7% takes you to a plateau offering panoramic views of the Ariège mountains. This climb, the scene of numerous battles in the Tour de France, is a must for climbers.
• Peyragudes station (1650m)
  By climbing the Peyresourde pass, a detour to the Peyragudes altiport plunges you into a unique atmosphere. The last meters, with percentages greater than 16%, offer you a challenge worthy of the best climbers.

Build the GPS track of your crossing of the Pyrenees by bike

Once you've made your route choices, use tools like OpenRunner or Komoot to create your GPS track. Use the “road cycling” track in automatic mode, it can go quickly! Then import it onto your counter, and you're ready to go!

If you want to have the best GPS track: complete and adapted to your needs, you can send us A short email, a whatsapp or call us at 04 65 84 17 39, we will be happy to help you! 😉

How do you cross the Pyrenees by bike?

There are several ways to experience this adventure according to your preferences.

A crossing of the Pyrenees in ultra-light BikePacking

With a tent or sleeping in cottages, you travel light with compact bags. It is the ultimate adventure, perfect for lovers of freedom and wild nature.

The Comfort Crossing with Luggage Transport

You are traveling with only your things for the day. Every evening, your luggage awaits you at your accommodation, transported by a logistics service. This requires precise organization on your side in order to contact the right people well in advance of your crossing, but it is an excellent intermediate option.

Organized cycling across the Pyrenees: 100% fun 0% stress

This is the turnkey solution that we offer you at Belle Allure. GPS tracks, accommodations, luggage transport, assistance... All you have to do is pedal and enjoy! ✔️

Crossing the Pyrenees by bike in 8 stages, the detail [The Oceanic - From the Mediterranean to the Ocean]

Let's go, we offer you as an example, 2 routes. The first, from East to West (The Oceanic) and the second, from West to East (the Mediterranean) to travel the Pyrenees in 8 days, which is a distance often chosen by cyclists! In these 2 routes, we offer you the most beautiful and the mythical stages, but for (almost) each stage a less difficult option is possible.

Stage 1: Collioure - Prades | 100km - 1500D+

Your journey through the Pyrenees starts in Collioure, a pleasant historic town that inspired Picasso. After a flat warm-up, you follow the small passes (Col de Rousse, Llauro, Fourtou and Xatard) during a gradual ascent to reach Col Palomère. You then go down into the forest to reach the Lentilla Gorges and reach Prades for the night, in the heart of the Eastern Pyrenees.

• Col de Rousse (135m)
• Llauro Pass (385 m)
• Fourtou Pass (646 m)
• Palomere Pass (1036 m)

Stage 2: Prades - Ax-les-Thermes | 88km - 2800D+

This second stage will take you to Ariège. Authentic, wild, raw. It is a territory that will not leave you indifferent (even if we are not very objective 😉). 4 passes on the program including the Col de Jau after Prades and especially the Col de Pailhères, at the end of the stage. It is the 2nd highest pass of the crossing (2001m) which will offer you a superb panoramic view, before arriving in Ax les Thermes.

• Col de Jau (1506 m)
• Col de Garabeil (1264m)
• Col des Moulis (1099m)
• Port of Pailhères (2001m)

Stage 3: Ax-les-Thermes - St-Lary (Ariège) | 148km - 3150D+

The queen stage, with more than 3000mD+ and 3 difficult passes. First of all, it is the pretty Route des Corniches de l'Ariège that awaits you before climbing the Port of Lers. You go back down to the pond of the same name and you go up the slopes of the Col d'Agnes which opens the doors to the wildest part of the massif (which is home to the Bear 🐻🤫): the Couserans. End of the stage with Port de la Core, which we love at Belle Allure.

• Route des Cornices
• Port of Lers (1517m)
• Col d'Agnes (1570m)
• Port of La Cora (1395m)

Stage 4: St-Lary (Ariège) - Loudervielle | 70km - 2400D+

A unique and demanding Pyrenean stage with the ascent of 3 mythical passes of the Tour de France. First of all, the wooded slopes of Portet d'Aspet await you before the formidable Col de Ménté. Then, a long valley will allow you to turn your legs before facing the long Peyresourde pass which will take you to its pretty summit, from Haute-Garonne to Hautes-Pyrénées to Germ.

• Portet d'Aspet pass (1069m)
• Col de Menté (1349m)
• Peyresourde pass (1569 m)

Stage 5: Loudervielle - Luz St Sauveur | 80km - 2100D+

Today it is the emblematic Giant of the Pyrenees: the Col du Tourmalet. But before that, you will enjoy the perfect asphalt of the Col d'Aspin. You will be rewarded with one of the most beautiful panoramas of the crossing at its summit. Then, you will have to switch physically and mentally to Sainte-Marie-de-Campan to face the Tourmalet, and reach the highest point of your crossing at 2015m, before a long descent in the direction of Luz St-Sauveur.To climb the Portet d'Aspet, many times used by the Tour de France. Finally, it is the wild and difficult Port de la Core that awaits you (its forests are home to the bear 🐻🤫).

• Col d'Aspin (1489 m)
• Col du Tourmalet (2115 m)

Stage 6: Luz St Sauveur - Oloron Ste Marie | 110km - 2500D+

New mythical passes will punctuate this 6th stage. After the Col des Bordères, you will have the chance to climb the Col du Soulor and the Col d'Aubisque by driving on a magnificent balcony road overlooking Val d'Azun, enough to forget the pains associated with effort 😉. Before reaching Oloron-Sainte-Marie, you will climb a demanding and typically Pyrenean pass: the Marie Blanque pass (the site of one of Vingegaard's winning attacks on Pogacar during the Tour de France 2023).

• Col du Soulor (1474 m)
• Col d'Aubisque (1709 m)
• Marie Blanque Pass (1035 m)

Stage 7: Oloron Ste Marie - St-Jean-le-Vieux | 110km -2700D+

The Pyrénées-Atlantiques open up to you with a difficult pass but offering a well-deserved reward: a superb view at the Spanish border at the Col du Soudet. After a long descent, you climb one of the hardest passes of the crossing and yet less well known: the Bagargiak Pass with its steep percentages in magnificent landscapes, before going back down to the small village of St Jean le Vieux. Col du Soudet (1540m)/Col Bagargiak (1350m)

• Soudet pass (1540m)
• Bagargiak Pass (1350m)

Stage 8: St-Jean-le-Vieux - St-Jean-de-Luz | 75km - 1200D+

Last stage, last pedal strokes before reaching the finish of your incredible challenge that crossing the Pyrenees: the Atlantic Ocean! To reach it, you cross recognized villages with evocative names: Saint Jean Pied de Port but also Espelette. The day is hilly, you pass through the passes of Gastigarlepoa, Pinodieta and finally the Col de Saint Ignace, the last pass sign that you leave behind before tipping in the direction of the Ocean by remembering these 8 stages, these magnificent passes, these magnificent passes, these difficulties, these emotions experienced during this adventure. That's it here we are, St Jean de Luz, the vacation atmosphere accompanies you to the finish line of your magnificent adventure: the beach and the Atlantic Ocean. Bravo!

• Gastigarlepoa (345 m)
• Pinodieta Pass (176m)
• Saint Ignace Pass (169m)

Crossing the Pyrenees by bike in 8 stages, the detail [The Mediterranean - From the Ocean to the Mediterranean]

Stage 1: St-Jean-de-Luz - Larrau | 110km - 2600D+

You leave the ocean behind and set off to discover the Basque Country with a visit to Espelette. You will climb the Col de Saint Ignace and the Col de Gastigarlepoa before arriving at St Jean Pied de Port. The end of the stage is tough, with the ascent of the Burdincurutcheta Pass and the Bagargiak Pass that allows you to reach Iraty, before climbing to Larrau for your first night.

• Col de Saint-Ignace (169m)
• Gastigarlepoa Pass (440 m)
• Col de Saint-Ignace
• Espelette
• Burdincurutcheta Pass (1135 m)
• Bagargiak (1350 m)

Stage 2: Larrau - Argelès-Gazost | 122km - 2900D+

2 great difficulties today: the Col de Marie Blanque, a short pass but with high percentages and the mythical Col d'Aubisque, long and pretty pass, before reaching the Col du Soulor by a superb balcony road and going down to Argelès-Gazost. A hard day but rewarded by the breathtaking landscapes offered by this rustic territory.

• Marie Blanque Pass (1035 m)
• Col d'Aubisque (1709 m)
• Col du Soulor (1474 m)

Stage 3: Argelès-Gazost - Arreau | 80km - 2500D+

The queen stage of this crossing with the majestic Col du Tourmalet. Quickly you reach Luz-St Sauveur to start the long and memorable ascent of the giant of the Pyrenees (19km at 7.4%). Once recovered from your emotions, you will go down to Sainte Marie de Campan before going up a mythical pass: the Col d'Aspin and down to Cadéac, just after Arreau in the pretty Aure Valley.

• Col du Tourmalet (2115 m)
• Col d'Aspin (1489 m)

Stage 4: Arreau - Bagnères-de-Luchon | 48km - 1500D+

A short stage (almost recovery) but without a single meter of flat! On the program: the Col d'Azet to join the Louron Valley. Then, a new mythical pass: the Peyresourde pass and its beautiful descent that allows you to arrive in Bagnères-de-Luchon, a spa town and known for the numerous arrivals of the Grande Boucle.

• Col d'Azet (1580 m)
• Peyresourde pass (1569 m)

Stage 5: Bagnères-de-Luchon - Seix | 94km - 2300D+

Today, you are going to discover the wildest parts of the crossing! Indeed, Ariège awaits you, but before that, the Col de Ménté, and its fearsome slopes, typical of the Pyrenees. A long but winding wooded descent allows you to recover a bit to climb Portet d'Aspet, many times used by the Tour de France. Finally, it is the wild and difficult Port de la Core that awaits you (its forests are home to the bear 🐻🤫).

• Col de Menté (1349m)
• Portet d'Aspet pass (1069m)
• Port of Korea (1395m)

Stage 6: Seix - Ax-les-Thermes | 100km - 2300D+

Ariège is a territory that will not leave you indifferent. (Even if we are not objective 😉). It will take energy to first climb the Col d'Agnes which will allow you to switch to the Lers pond. Leaving the edge of the lake, it is the Port of Lers. You will continue your stage in the sublime Vicdessos valley to Tarascon sur Ariège before climbing on its magnificent cornices road to reach Ax les Thermes, known for its thermal waters.

• Col d'Agnes (1570m)
• Port of Lers (1517m)
• Route des Cornices

Stage 7: Ax-les-Thermes - Prades | 90km - 2400D+

Today, you are joining Pyrénées-Orientales! To do this, you will have to climb the superb Port of Paillhères, the 2nd highest point of your crossing, with its 360 degree panorama. After the descent, you will put your wheels on small roads through the Col des Moulis and the Col de Garabeil. You end with the Col de Jau, before Prades, this ancient fortified city.

• Port of Pailhères (2001m)
• Col des Moulis (1099m)
• Col de Garabeil (1264m)
• Col de Jau (1506 m)

Stage 8: Prades - Collioure | 98km -1100D+

Last pedal strokes before reaching the Mediterranean Sea! First, you climb the Palomère pass through very pretty gorges. It will be your last real ascent before a downward profile to Collioure. That's it, it's done, you can realize. Be proud of yourself, look at the sea and think about leaving the ocean. The crossing of the Pyrenees is yours, you deserve your swim or your drink on the terrace, congratulations! (we recommend both 😉)

• Palomere Pass (1036 m)
• Fourtou Pass (646 m)
• Llauro Pass (385 m)

Crossing the Pyrenees by bike in figures

The figures below are for the 8-stage version, with the most mythical passes and no round-trips.

But it is possible to reduce the distance by taking more direct routes on certain stages, avoiding certain passes or valleys.

• Total distance: 950 km
• Positive altitude difference: 18,400m
• Number of collars: 24

Organized stay: Crossing the Pyrenees by bike with Belle Allure, your local specialist

If organizing a crossing seems complex or time-consuming, entrust the logistics to us. We are specialists in the Pyrenees and know how to make your experience unique and stress-free.

On almost all the stages that we propose, several variants are possible depending on the level and the form of the day.

2 formulas: In freedom or with complete assistance

• En Liberté : You ride at your own pace with cycling colleagues or with your family.
• With Assistance : Supplies, advice, logistical support. You share this adventure in a small friendly group with other enthusiasts or in a private group.

We take care of everything:

• Create the best GPS tracks.
• Book comfortable accommodations.
• Carry your luggage.
• Provide a support phone number.
• Vehicle and logistician very attentive with complete refueling for the formula with assistance

Ready to take on the challenge of Crossing the Pyrenees by bike and climb the mythical passes such as Tourmalet or Aubisque? At Belle Allure, we make this adventure unforgettable.

Discover our Stay on the Crossing of the Pyrenees by bike to explore every nook and cranny of this exceptional mountain range. Leave with peace of mind: we'll take care of everything, so you just have to pedal and enjoy every moment. 🤩