The Pyrenees are rugged, the climbs are irregular, and the weather is perhaps less predictable than in the Alps. Cycling in the Pyrenees It’s a feast for the eyes, but it’s also a real challenge. Fortunately, we’re here to help you find the best location for your next cycling adventure in the Pyrenees. Want to experience a top-notch cycling adventure in the Pyrenees? Then choose accommodation in Argelès-Gazost. From here, the most beautiful climbs are at your feet! We’ve got a few great tips for a cycling holiday that you shouldn’t miss
Argelès-Gazost – near Lourdes
If you’ve never been to Southern France, you probably haven’t heard of Argelès-Gazost. It’s located very strategically in the Pyrenees. Not only for the climbs (we’ll get to that soon), but also because of the route to get there. You’re right near Lourdes, which is an important hub. Here you have a large train station, it’s easy to get there by car, and there’s even an airport. Not only are the region’s most famous climbs easily accessible, but the town itself also offers everything you need for a carefree cycling holiday.
Accessibility Argelès-Gazost
- By car: From the Netherlands, Argelès-Gazost is easily accessible by car. From Paris and Bordeaux, you can easily travel south to France.
- By plane: The nearest airports are Tarbes-Lourdes-Pyrénées (at 25 km away) and Toulouse-Blagnac (about 2 hours' drive).
- By train: Lourdes has a large train station and is well connected to other French cities. From Lourdes, it is only a 15-minute drive to Argelès-Gazost.
Bike facilities Argelès-Gazost
Argelès-Gazost is a city that understands cyclists. In this town you will find, among other things.
- Bike rental en bicycle manufacturersFor repairs, parts and advice. Among other things at Pyrenees-Bike You can get repairs and rental bicycles. Also CyclinPyrenees has good service and a wide range of products.
- Cafes, bakeries and restaurantsIdeal to replenish your energy after a hard ride.
- The best tip is Boulangerie Lagrue. The world champion of chocolate buns, you can't miss it! https://www.facebook.com/maisonlagrue/
- If you really want to eat well in the evening and you don’t have food at the hotel: Auberge Cabaliros. Michelin would also like to come, but they don't have that star yet. It's located in the neighboring Arcizans-Avant
- Also delicious: Au Fond du Gosier. The prices are really very affordable!
- Wellness centers and thermal bathsPerfect for recovery after a day of hard work.
Legendary Climbs in the Neighborhood
From Argelès-Gazost, the most beautiful climbs are at your feet. Here is an overview of the most iconic cols you shouldn't miss:
Col du Tourmalet (2,115 m)
- Distance17.2 km from Luz-Saint-Sauveur
- Average growth rate: 7,4%
- Maximum increase: 10%
- Why cycling?The Tourmalet is the king of the Pyrenees and the most climbed col in the Tour de France. The climb is long, steep and offers spectacular views.
Col du Tourmalet, Luz Saint Sauveur, France
• Distance: 18.4 km, Elevation gain: 1385 m, Average gradient: 7.6 %
Col d’Aubisque (1,709 m) via Col du Soulor
- Distance16.6 km from Argelès-Gazost
- Average growth rate: 7,2%
- Why cycling?This climb is a classic from the Tour de France and offers one of the most beautiful routes in the Pyrenees, especially when combined with the Col du Soulor.
Hautacam (1,520 m)
- Distance13 km from Argelès-Gazost
- Average growth rate: 7,8%
- Why cycling?One of the toughest climbs in the region due to the irregular ascents and steep sections. The climb has been the destination several times in the Tour de France.
Luz Ardiden (1,715 m)
- Distance14.7 km from Luz-Saint-Sauveur
- Average growth rate: 7,7%
- Why cycling?: A spectacular climb with many hairpin bends. The climb ends at an altitude with a beautiful panoramic view. It was featured several times in the Tour de France.
Col d’Aspin (1,489 m)
- Distance12 km from Sainte-Marie-de-Campan
- Average growth rate: 6,5%
- Why cycling?: A less strenuous climb, but with breathtaking views over the surrounding valleys. Often combined with the Tourmalet.
Col de Spandelles (1,378 m)
- Distance16.3 km from Argelès-Gazost
- Average growth rate: 6,5%
- Why cycling?: A less well-known but beautiful climb with little traffic. Ideal for a quiet ride through nature.
Col des Tentes (2,208 m)
- Distance25 km from Luz-Saint-Sauveur
- Average growth rate: 5,2%
- Why cycling?: A long climb that ends at the impressive Cirque de Gavarnie, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Why choose Argelès-Gazost?
- Perfect Central Location
Argelès-Gazost is ideally located near the major passes in the Pyrenees. Within a radius of 50 km, you have access to a large number of legendary climbs. - Variety in Routes
From Argelès-Gazost, you can take both short, explosive rides and long, epic tours. For example, combine the Col du Tourmalet with the Col d’Aspin for a world-class ride. - Good facilities for cyclists and cyclists in general
From bike parking facilities to recovery meals: hotels and restaurants in the region are geared towards cyclists. - Less Touristy than the Alps
The Alps are often busier and more commercial. The Pyrenees offer a more authentic experience and quieter roads. - Fantastic landscape
Cycling in the Pyrenees means cycling through rugged nature, along waterfalls, forests, and impressive canyons.
See also our general page about Cycling in the Pyrenees here.
Best Accommodations for Cyclists
A good night's sleep and the right facilities make for a complete cycling experience. Here are the best hotels in Argelès-Gazost for cyclists:
- L’Argalyde – Luxury suites with private jacuzzis, wellness facilities and a closed bike storage area. Training base for Arkea Samsic in previous seasons. Top notch facilities.
- Au Primerose Hôtel – A hotel especially for cyclists, with bike rental and extensive local cycling information. You can also find special packages here, and some cycling organizations use it as a base as well.
- Hotel Beau Site – A quietly located hotel with a workshop for cyclists and recovery meals.
- Logis Hôtel Les Cimes – With a spa and heated swimming pool, ideal for recovery after strenuous rides.
Argelès-Gazost is the Best Base in the Pyrenees
Argelès-Gazost offers everything you look for as a cyclist: legendary climbs, beautiful routes, excellent facilities, and a perfect location. Whether you want to tackle the Tourmalet, experience the rugged beauty of the Aubisque, or climb the challenging Hautacam, here begins your ultimate cycling adventure. Grab your bike and discover for yourself why Argelès-Gazost is the place for your next cycling trip.
Read also: 5x mythical cols in the Pyrenees
Questions & tips
Do you have any questions about this route, or have you been there yourself? Share them here. We read everything and usually respond within a few days.