Iconic Pyrenees climbs

Discover the Majestic Pyrenees: A Cycling Adventure Through Scenic Peaks and Cultural Crossroads.

Welcome to the Trans Pyrenees cycling adventure, where you'll traverse one of Europe’s most spectacular mountain ranges. The Pyrenees offer a stunning blend of rugged peaks, verdant valleys, and dramatic passes, perfect for cyclists seeking both challenge and beauty. This region is rich in cultural diversity, straddling the border between Spain and France, each with its own distinct traditions, language, and architecture. Along the way, you'll experience local cuisines that reflect the heart of both countries — Catalonian tapas and seafood on the Spanish side, and hearty French mountain dishes like cassoulet and local cheeses. The Pyrenees are not just a cycling paradise but also a place where the cultures and flavours of two nations converge, creating a unique and unforgettable journey.

  • START LINE: Bagneres de Luchon
  • FINISH LINE: Sant Savin
  • TOTAL DISTANCE: 905 km
  • TOTAL ASCENT: 16380 m
Col de Bales
Superbagnares
Col de Peyresourde
Col Aspen
Col du Tourmalet
Hautacam
Col d'Aubisque
Luz Ardidenne
 

The Perfect Cycling Holiday

Is this what I’m looking for?  

  • Are you in search of a cycling challenge of a lifetime with the most amazing scenery?
  • Do you want to ride some of the world's most famous climbs in the company of like-minded cyclists?
  • Are you wanting a stress free holiday with all the logistics taken care of?
  • Do you enjoy great company when enjoying a nice glass of wine with a fabulous evening meal?
  • Travelling from Australia? Are you looking to add a cycling holiday to a wider European holiday?

Magical & Unforgettable

What to look forward to…

  • Breath-taking Mountain Passes: Experience the thrill of conquering iconic climbs such as the Col du Tourmalet and Col d'Aubisque, famous from the Tour de France, with spectacular views of the rugged Pyrenean landscape.
  • Diverse Terrain: The journey offers an exciting variety of terrain, from lush valleys and steep ascents to rolling hills and sweeping descents, making each day a new adventure.
  • Charming Pyrenean Villages: Along the route, you'll pass through picturesque villages like Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port and Bagnères-de-Luchon, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture, cuisine, and hospitality.
  • Rich Wildlife and Nature: Ride through national parks and protected areas teeming with wildlife, including eagles, marmots, and wildflowers, all while surrounded by the natural beauty of the Pyrenees.

Stages of your Tour

  1. Welcome - Superbagneres

    36 km | 1100 m climb

    The first day of your Trans-Pyrenees adventure begins with a transfer from Toulouse Airport to Bagnères-de-Luchon, the gateway to the French Pyrenees. Upon arrival, the team will assist you with your bike fit and, after a short welcome briefing, it’s time to head out for the first ride. The welcome loop leads to the legendary Superbagnères climb, an iconic ascent that will once again feature in the 2025 Tour de France. With its sweeping switchbacks and breathtaking alpine views, this climb sets the tone perfectly for the days ahead. It’s the ideal introduction to your Pyrenean journey.

    Hotel Le Castel | Bagnères-de-Luchon

  2. Port de Bales loop

    67 km | 1450 m Climb

    Today’s ride sets out directly from our hotel for a memorable loop deep in the Pyrenees. The highlight of the day is the legendary Port de Balès, a climb that has earned its place in Tour de France history. The ascent winds through quiet villages, shaded woodlands, and peaceful alpine pastures before opening up to wide panoramas as you approach the summit. From the top, breathtaking views stretch across the rugged mountain landscape, offering the perfect reward for your efforts. A thrilling descent then brings us back to our hotel, rounding off a truly iconic day on the bike.

    In the evening, we’ll gather for a traditional dinner in a local restaurant in the heart of town, the perfect opportunity to savor regional flavors and share the highlights of the day together.

    Hotel Le Castel | Bagnères-de-Luchon

  3. Peyresourde & Azet

    45 km | 1600 m CLIMB

    Today’s stage takes us from Bagnères-de-Luchon to a new hotel, with a spectacular route across some of the Pyrenees’ most iconic climbs. We’ll tackle the Col de Peyresourde, where a stop at the famous mountain kiosk is a must to taste the traditional crêpes and soak in the alpine atmosphere. Along the way, we’ll pass by the heliport made famous in a James Bond film, adding a touch of cinematic flair to the ride. The journey continues with the Col d’Azet, offering sweeping views over the surrounding valleys and peaks, before we roll into the charming town of Saint-Lary-Soulan for the night, ready to relax and recharge for the adventures ahead.

     
    Hotel Mercure de Saint-Lary | Saint-Lary Soulan

  4. Hourquette d’Ancizan

    76 km | 2200 M CLIMB

    Today’s ride starts directly from our hotel in Saint-Lary-Soulan and takes us up the legendary Hautes-Pyrénées climb of Horquette d’Ancizan. The ascent winds through a truly unique and picturesque landscape, surrounded by alpine pastures and traditional mountain scenery. After savoring the breathtaking views from the summit, we descend back to the hotel, where you can relax and unwind in the spa or take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of the mountain village, enjoying the local atmosphere and the beauty of Saint-Lary-Soulan..

    Hotel Mercure de Saint-Lary | Saint-Lary Soulan

  5. Aspin & Tourmalet

    85 km | 2180 m CLIMB

    The big day has finally arrived, featuring the ascent of two true cycling legends: Col d’Aspin and Col du Tourmalet. As we climb, the surrounding Pyrenean landscapes unfold in all their glory, with dramatic valleys, alpine pastures, and rugged peaks providing a breathtaking backdrop. The final switchbacks bring us to the ski resort of La Mongie, an impressive spectacle at the summit. The descent is exhilarating, filled with hairpins, sweeping curves, and panoramic views that make every pedal stroke worth it. We conclude the ride in Saint-Lary-Soulan, where the hotel’s excellent cuisine will be waiting with a specially prepared dinner, the perfect way to celebrate a day of iconic climbs and unforgettable scenery.


    Hotel Les Viscos | Saint Savin

  6. Hautacam

    35 KM | 1200M CLIMB

    Your day begins with a relaxed morning, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of the Pyrenean foothills. After a leisurely breakfast, you gear up for the rewarding ascent of Hautacam, a climb famous for its Tour de France appearances. The steady, challenging ride offers breath-taking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys as you reach the summit. After the exhilarating descent, the afternoon brings a change of pace with a visit to the spiritual town of Lourdes. You’ll explore the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, a world-renowned pilgrimage site, soaking in the serene and reflective atmosphere.

    Hotel Les Viscos | Saint Savin

  7. the big three

    80 km | 2580 m Climb

    This cycling day is an unforgettable ride through the heart of the Pyrenees: Col de Soulour, Col d’Aubisque, and Col des Spandelles. This is a true cycling experience, with challenging ascents, sweeping switchbacks, and breathtaking mountain vistas at every turn. At midday, we’ll stop for lunch in a traditional Pyrenean refuge, where you can relax, enjoy local flavors, and take a group photo to capture this spectacular moment. The day concludes with a convivial dinner together in the village, just a short walk from our hotel, sharing stories and celebrating the day’s achievements.


    Hotel Les Viscos | Saint Savin

  8. Luz Ardidenne

    50 KM | 1500 M climb

    Our final ride begins right from the hotel and takes on the iconic Luz Ardiden climb, a spectacular series of switchbacks that make this ascent truly unique. From the ski station at the top, you can admire the entire climb, taking in every twist, turn, and gradient. The descent winds through the valley, allowing you to enjoy the last pedal strokes of the trip, while our team is on hand to help pack your bikes and organize your personal cycling gear. The day—and the adventure—concludes with a celebratory dinner at one of the finest restaurants in the area, sharing memories and already dreaming of the next journey together.

    Hotel Les Viscos | Saint Savin

  9. Arrivederci

    Not today!

    All good things must come to an end and sadly it is time to bid you farewell. Our staff will happily assist you with planning your onward travel. There will be one morning transfer to Toulouse Airport.

    Onward destinations

BIKE HIRE

The perfect cycling holiday requires pedalling on the perfect bike. So should you not wish to bring your own bike with you, we have a number of beautiful bikes that you can hire at very reasonable prices. If you are not sure what is the perfect bike for you then fire us an email and we will be delighted give you some expert advice. You can find more information about our bikes below. And yes, you can buy our bikes if you fall in love with them!

Colnago V3 - the perfect road bike to hire on our more challenging cycling holidays. As you’d expect it’s lightweight, aerodynamic withgreat handling.

FROM €50 PER DAY

3T Ultra - one of the finest gravel bikes in the world from one of the most popular brands in Italy. A dream to ride on the gravel and the road!

FROM €50 PER DAY

Guerciotti Brera Touring ION - the ideal bike for guests looking for a little assistance when riding. The flat handle bars are perfect for clients looking for maximum comfort.

FROM €65 PER DAY

Guerciotti Navir ION - loved by clients that enjoy the challenge of riding some of our more challenging tours. Assistant road bikes are a real ‘game changer’.

FROM €65 PER DAY

 
Bike Specs
X

COLNAGO V3

COMPONENTS:

  • Shimano 105 12 Speed Di2 Drivetrain (50/34 Chainset and 11-34 Cassette)
  • Fulcrum Racing 600 Wheelset
  • Pirelli P7 Sport 28mm Tyres
  • Shimano 105 Hydraulic Disc Brakes (160mm rotors)
  • Selle Italia Novus Boost Evo Flow saddle
  • (Sizes: XXS(42S), XS(45S), S(48S), M(50S), L(52S), XL(54S), XXL(56S), XXXL(58S))
Bike Specs
X

3T ULTRA

COMPONENTS:

  • Shimano GRX 822 1x - 40T 1x Chainset, 12 Speed 10-51T Cassette
  • Fulcrum Rapid Red 900 Wheelset
  • Shimano GRX Hydraulic Disc Brakes (160mm rotors)
  • Selle Italia Model X Superflow
  • Sizes: 48 - 61
BIKE SPECS
X

GUERCIOTTI BRERA TOURING ION

COMPONENTS:

  • SRAM NX Mechanical 1 x 11 Speed Drivetrain (40T Chainset and 11-42T Cassette) URSUS Orion Disc Wheelset
  • Challenge Gravel Grinder 42mm Tyres
  • SRAM Guide Rival Hydraulic Levers and SRAM Rival Caliper Disc Brakes (160mm rotors)
  • Electric Polini E-P3 250 watt motor, with 70 N/m maximum torque
  • 500 wh battery with 220 km range in assist mode
  • DPV Touring saddle
  • (Sizes: S, M)
BIKE SPECS

DATES AND AVAILABILITY

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Dates Price Availability
Sun 28 Jun - Mon 06 Jul From €3999
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Sun 26 Jul - Mon 03 Aug From €3999
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Sun 23 Aug - Mon 31 Aug From €3999
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What’s included?

  • 8 nights' 4* accommodation
  • Transfers (from specified airport/train location)
  • All breakfasts
  • 5 dinners
  • Water and coffee are complimentary during meals that are included in the package
  • Guided rides
  • GPX routes
  • Van and mechanical support and snacks
  • Experienced team of local professionals
  • Beautifully planned rides
  • Bike cleaning service
  • IBT cycling jersey
  • IBT water bottle
  • City taxes

What’s not included?

  • Travel Insurance (must be purchased before the tour)
  • Flights
  • Bike hire
  • Beverages
  • Lunches
  • Nutrition
  • Tips and gratutities
 
 

The nuts and Bolts

Useful information about your holiday

Still Undecided?

Here is what our clients say about this tour…

The Pyrenees is my fourth tour with IBT. We had a truly amazing experience under the perfect leadership and support from IBT. Outstanding work from IBT in keeping us safe, well rested and refuelled over 10 days. Just starting to think about next years’ tour.

Andrew

trans pyrenees august 2025

Where to Meet

Please arrange to meet us at Barcelona El Prat Airport (BCN) between 12:00 and 14:00 on day 1. We will contact you via WhatsApp in the days leading up to the start of your tour to confirm your transfer and the name of the staff member collecting you. Alternative transfers can be arranged but may incur an additional cost.

Drop off Location

We can assist you with planning and booking of onward travel following the conclusion of your tour. We will run one morning transfer to San Sebastian Airport (EAS).

Transfer Time

Please consider eating lunch before we collect you from Barcelona. The transfer time from Barcelona to Girona is 1 hour on day 1. We will stop for a coffee along the way. Transfer time on day 10 from San Sebastian to San Sebastian Airport (EAS) is 20 minutes.
Riding in the Pyrenees

The general road conditions in the Pyrenees are very good but can be affected by adverse weather, and the roads are safe and without traffic.
Cuisine

The food is excellent in both the Countries, Franch and Spain. Restaurants now cater for both vegan and vegetarians. Home made local wines and beer are a must to try. When completing the welcome questionnaire please tell us about any special dietry requirements.

Hotel Facilities

Some hotels on this tour have spas and pool and we recommend bringing swimming costumes. Hotels also have laundry service, good WiFi and bar service. Hotels may charge extra to use some of these facilities.
Private Tours & Groups

We welcome the opportunity to discuss a private tour with you should you be in a group of six or more. A private tour allows you to choose dates and personalise the itinerary according to your requirements.

Weather

The weather in the mountains can be unpredicatble and our guides will monitor the weather on a daily basis and ammend rides accordingly - should there be a need. The average summer temperature in Pyrenees ranges from 17°C - 23°C (62°F - 73°F).

What happens next?

Are you thinking about joining us? You probably have some questions! There are a number of ways to contact us, email is best, we will reply within 24 hours. Please check your SPAM/JUNK folder should you not have received an email in this time. You can also find a contact form at the bottom of this page.

 

Hotels

HOTEL LE CASTEL ****

MERCURE HOTEL SAINT-LARY ****

HOTEL LES VISCOS ****

 

Get In Touch

If you would prefer to give us a call and talk cycling and Italy please WhatsApp us on the number below and we will arrange a call back.

ITA: +39 320 638 4713

Or you can chat to us online also by clicking the button at bottom right of page.

Drop us a direct email to info@italybiketours.com