Road Cycling Collection by Julien Harté
From the Atlantic to the Mediterranean – Route des Cols in the Pyrénées
15 days
2-5 h/day
1,003km
24,850m
24,890m
Many historic and emblematic trails cross the Pyrenees and of these – the GR 10 – is the most well-known and popular with hikers. For cyclists, it’s the ‘Route des Cols des Pyrénées’ (Route of the passes of the Pyrenees). This incredible 900-kilometre (559 mi) route crosses 30 legendary passes and connects the Atlantic to the Mediterranean.
Your adventure begins in northern Spain’s verdant Basque Country, where you can warm up before the imposing peaks of the Hautes-Pyrénées. You’ll climb the Tourmalet, Aspin, Aubisque and Peyresourde, surrounded by grandiose vistas. Finally, the department of Ariège in south-west France gradually introduces a Mediterranean flair. Along the way, you’ll discover towns and villages with a rich history, numerous spa resorts, spectacular landscapes and a warm and authentic welcome at the end of each stage.
The route begins at Hendaye station and ends at Cerbère station. Trains run daily to Bordeaux and Marseille, which are a few hours from Paris. You’ll never be far from a train station on this adventure, making it relatively accessible. Accommodation and refreshment opportunities are abundant and varied, with something for every budget. Check the stage descriptions for information on areas where it’s harder to find amenities and essential to book in advance.
The passes are between 1,000 and 2,000 metres (3,300 and 6,500 ft) above sea level, except for a few located a little higher. Therefore, I’d recommend riding from late spring to early autumn to avoid snow. Check the weather forecast and that the passes are open before setting off. I suggest riding a road bike or an e-bike.
All that remains is for me to wish you a wonderful adventure.
Visibility:
Anyone
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Route des Cols in the Pyrénées
923km
21,570m
21,560m
Last updated: November 25, 2024
Do it yourself!
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Ready to get going? Create and customize your own version of this adventure using the full route below as a template.
Plan your own version of this adventure in the multi-day planner based on the stages suggested in this Collection.
Activities
51.2km
03:09
750m
690m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
59.1km
03:19
1,280m
1,190m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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54.4km
03:32
1,640m
1,520m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
67.9km
04:26
2,140m
2,010m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
87.3km
05:36
2,620m
2,580m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
78.7km
05:25
2,680m
2,430m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
56.6km
03:41
1,720m
1,800m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
64.7km
03:51
1,700m
1,830m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
59.7km
03:35
1,580m
1,570m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
52.9km
03:38
1,800m
1,590m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
70.0km
04:08
1,720m
1,720m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
54.8km
02:43
960m
1,390m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
75.5km
04:45
2,010m
720m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
110km
04:46
1,300m
2,710m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
60.1km
03:10
980m
1,140m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
Collection Stats
Activities
15
Distance
1,003 km
Duration
59:43 h
Elevation
24,850 m
24,890 m
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