From Saint-Jean-de-Luz beach to Olette, discover our epic 7-stage route along the Tour de France’s Pyrenean roads.
Crossing the Pyrenees by bike is a dream for many cyclists. It’s a week rich in emotions, with breathtaking scenery and elevation changes that will put your calves to the test. We made the trip from Saint-Jean-de-Luz to Olette, and we’d like to share this unforgettable experience with you, in detail and in photos.
Get on your bike and discover our itinerary on the legendary Tour de France routes through five Pyrenean departments. A tough challenge, but not without its pleasures, as each pedal stroke brings you closer to the Mediterranean.
Departure point: Saint-Jean-de-Luz
Arrival: Olette
Cyclists in group: 6(see our tips)
Number of stages: 7
Estimated time: approx. 45h, depending on your ability
Total km: 790 km
Number of passes climbed: 26
Total elevation gain: approx. 20,000 m
Day 1: Saint-Jean de Luz – Larrau (117 km)
Credit: Generation Voyage
Passes climbed: Col de St Ignace, Puerto de Otxondo, Col d’Ispeguy, Col d’Organbidexka, Col de Burdincurutcheta
This first stage is far from being the easiest, with the dreaded Organbidexka pass and its 19% gradients. The verdant landscapes of the Basque country will accompany you throughout this demanding day. On arrival, we recommend you spend the night atHotel Etchemaîté.
Prepare yourself mentally and physically for this first day, as it will give you a foretaste of the next stages. The climbs will be tough, but the descents will offer breathtaking panoramas and a feeling of unparalleled freedom.
Day 2: Larrau – Luz-Saint-Sauveur (143 km)
Credit: Generation Voyage
Cols climbed: Col de Marie-Blanque, Col d’Aubisque, Col du Soulor, Col des Bordères
A tough stage from Larrau, with the legendary Marie-Blanque and Aubisque passes on the program. Their fame will help you forget the difficulty of the climb. The lesser-known Col du Soulor offers a magnificent descent behind the Aubisque. On arrival, relax at theHôtel Ardiden, where you’ll spend two nights.
Take advantage of this stage to immerse yourself in the history of the Tour de France and enjoy the exceptional panoramic views. Your efforts will be rewarded by the beauty of the surroundings and the lasting memories you’ll take with you.
Day 3: Day trip around Luz-Saint-Sauveur
Credit: Generation Voyage
Passes climbed: Cirque de Troumouse, Cirque de Gavarnie, Luz-Ardiden
This « bonus » stage allows you to spend a day cycling together and discover the incredible Troumouse and Gavarnie cirques. Unfortunately, on our descent from the cirque de Troumouse, we had to deal with a broken spoke, forcing us to return to Luz-Saint-Sauveur to repair the wheel. Rather than ride all the way back to Gèdre, we decided to climb Luz-Ardiden, a difficult but challenging climb.
That day, for the group member who drives the next day, he or she can climb the Col du Tourmalet. By omitting this stage, you can complete the crossing of the Pyrenees in six days. In any case, this day will be an opportunity to share convivial moments and enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the Pyrenees.
Day 4: Luz-Saint-Sauveur – Bagnères-de-Luchon (97 km)
Credit: Generation Voyage
Cols climbed: Col du Tourmalet, Col d’Aspin, Col de Peyresourde
From Saint-Sauveur, get ready to tackle the legendary Tourmalet, a challenging start to the day. The climb, though demanding, is not the hardest of the week. The Laurent Fignon route allows you to ride without traffic for much of the ascent. Be careful, though, as it can be very cold at the summit, even in June. Wrap up warmly for the descent to La Mongie. On arrival, spend the night at the Hotel Métropole.
The Tourmalet is a legendary mountain pass, a symbol of French cycling. Take advantage of this stage to soak up its history and admire the grandiose scenery. This is one of the most affordable stages of the week.
Day 5: Bagnères-de-Luchon – Seix (115 km)
Credit: Generation Voyage
Climbed passes: Col du Portillon, Col de Menté, Col de Portet-d’Aspet, Col de la Core
A very substantial stage with no less than 4 cols. You’ll pass the white marble stele paying tribute to Fabio Casartelli, who tragically died on the descent of the Col du Portet d’Aspet. We chose Seix as our finishing point and stayed at theAuberge des Deux Rivières, a little further down the river.
This day will be marked by passes that become difficult to negotiate, with the week’s fatigue making itself felt in the thighs. Remember, every pedal stroke brings you a little closer to your goal, and a unique experience in the heart of the Pyrenees.
Day 6: Seix – Ax-les-Thermes (115 km)
Credit: Generation Voyage
Passes climbed: Col de Latrape, Col d’Agniès, Col du Port de Lers, Col de Marmare (+ Col de Chioula)
For our group, this stage was the hardest, not least because of a fall on the descent of the Col de Latrape, resulting in a broken collarbone for one of our team members. This incident reminded us that danger is always present, especially after several days of cumulative fatigue. In the end, three of us finished the stage, while two members of the group accompanied the injured man to hospital.
One of the passes was closed, forcing us to make a major detour. That day, we covered around 140 km instead of the planned 115 km. On arrival, we stayed at the Hotel le Grillon, now closed. Despite the difficulties encountered, it’s important to stay focused and enjoy every moment of this incredible adventure.
Day 7: Ax-les-Thermes – Olette (97 km)
Credit: Generation Voyage
Passes climbed: Col de Pailhères, Col de Creu
For this final stage, the day gets off to a strong start with the Col de Pailhères to be climbed from the very first kilometer. Tell yourself it’s the last big pass of the week, and give it everything you’ve got to tame it. Initially planned as far as Prades, we chose to stop at Olette because traffic on the N116 was too dangerous. The stage ends with a long descent of over 20 kilometers in stifling heat.
At the end of this last day, you’ll be able to savor the success of your Pyrenees cycling tour. You’ll have covered a total of over 700 kilometers, climbed some 20 legendary passes and had an unforgettable experience. The memories and landscapes of this journey will remain engraved in your mind, and you’ll be proud to have taken up this exceptional challenge.
FAQ – Our tips for crossing the Pyrenees by bike
Crossing the Pyrenees by bike is an experience that leaves its mark on the mind, but to enjoy it to the full, it’s essential to prepare accordingly. Here are a few practical tips for a successful cycling adventure.
When is the best time to cycle across the Pyrenees?
The last week of June is ideal to avoid the summer vacation crowds and take advantage of the mild weather. It can be cool early in the morning (we’re still at altitude) and very hot by mid-day.
How many people are recommended to form a group?
A group of six people is recommended for the best possible experience. This ensures that there is always a driver for each day, who will carry gear, provide refreshments and take care of other repair needs. We drew lots for the driving days, but depending on the passes to be climbed, you can make sure that no one is short-changed. Some legendary passes can’t be climbed in a van.
Do I need to hire a vehicle to accompany the group?
Yes, it’s best to rent a truck to transport provisions, luggage and repair equipment. One member of the group can drive every day and take photos along the way.
How do I plan my itinerary?
Plan an itinerary in advance, giving priority to the most picturesque passes and avoiding busy roads. You can use applications such as Strava or OpenRunner.
What is the budget for crossing the Pyrenees by bike?
The total budget is between €500 and €600 per person, including half-board accommodation, truck hire, petrol, tolls and a communal pot for food and unforeseen events.
Shutterstock – PHILIPIMAGE
How can I prepare physically for this adventure?
We recommend going out at least once (or even twice) a week for the 5-6 months prior to crossing the Pyrenees. About a month before, plan three consecutive 100-120 km outings. Test yourself on a major mountain pass before setting off, to assess your fitness and check that your bike is in good working order (sprockets, gears, etc.). Mont Ventoux and other Alpine passes are similar to the Pyrenean ones. The latter are generally shorter (10-15 km) but have steep gradients.
What clothing and equipment should I bring?
Take along a windbreaker for descents and cool mornings, as well as clothing suited to cycling and weather conditions. Don’t forget your helmet, sunglasses, gloves and cycling shoes. And don’t forget sun cream (you’ll spend an average of 7 hours a day in the saddle), as well as cream for any skin irritations.
How to manage food during the crossing?
Opt for half-board hotels and set up a communal pot for food and drink. Ideally, the truck driver will follow you with refreshments, and at the top of each pass a snack is recommended (fruit, bars, etc.). Everyone should bring their own energy bars and food supplements.
What precautions should you take to avoid health problems or fatigue?
Stay true to your habits during the crossing and listen to your body. Adapt to your limits and don’t change your eating or sports routines. Bear in mind that the week can turn into a nightmare if you leave too much strength at the start of the crossing.
Which passes and stages are not to be missed?
Among the most famous cols, don’t miss the Tourmalet, Aubisque, Aspin and Col de Peyresourde. The itinerary may vary according to your preferences and level, but it’s important to choose stages offering beautiful scenery and a sporting challenge suited to your group. Our bonus stage, which includes the Troumouse and Gavarnie cirques, was one of the most beautiful days of the week.