The impressive Pyrenees stretch for about 430 kilometres on the border of Spain and France (with the small state of Andorra in the middle). The mountain range is home to many iconic climbs. You know them from the Tour de France; the impressive Col du Tourmalet Whether the Col d'Aubisque. Every year we see the world's best riders tackle these climbs. They are cols that you, as a cyclist, must have cycled once in your life! In addition, this mountain range has much more to offer; authentic villages, a varied landscape and a rich culture. And did you know that you don't have to be a seasoned cyclist at all to be able to cycling in the Pyrenees? Every cyclist can find fine routes here, whether you want to climb the highest peaks, explore gravel paths or take quieter rides through the beautiful valleys.
Among other things, the Pyrenees are distinguished from the better-known Alpine mountains by their predominantly granite and limestone landscape. Whereas the Alps are more rolling, the Pyrenees are really rugged with rocky outcrops and steep slopes. Although the Pyrenees are lower than the Alps - the highest peak is the Aneto at 3,404 metres - cycling here is not necessarily easier. In fact, climbs are less gradual. In the Alps, it is easier to find a steady climbing rhythm; something that is more difficult in the Pyrenees.
The Pyrenees are vast and therefore enormously diverse. As a result, every cyclist can find a fine destination there. First, you could ask yourself whether you prefer to stay on the French or the Spanish side. In general, the southern, Spanish side of Pyrenees is sunnier and drier than the French side. The French side is greener. Most of the famous cols are on the French side. You will find that the roads on the French side are well maintained. In Spain, the atmosphere and culture feels more authentic. There are lesser-known climbs here, but then it is even less touristy. The Spanish side is great if you are more adventurous and want to discover unknown places. Opt for the French side when you want to be sure of good roads, want to cycle iconic climbs and are looking for an area with the best facilities for cyclists, such as lots of bike rental options.
Click on any of the destinations below to learn more about the area and nearby climbs. We start on the western side - at the beautiful Vallée d'Ossau - and end where the mountain range meets the Mediterranean, at cycling capital Girona!
The Vallée d'Ossau is located in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region of France. This valley offers a quiet alternative to the more touristy Argelès-Gazost, known as a starting point for many famous cols. You can climb the iconic Col d'Aubisque from either location, but the Vallée d'Ossau stands out for its serene, authentic character. Besides the Col d'Aubisque, you can tackle other stunning climbs from the valley. This makes it a perfect base for cyclists who want to explore the most beautiful routes in the Pyrenees from quiet surroundings.
From here, climb the:
An hour's drive east from Vallée d'Ossau - see previous heading - and you are in Vallée des Gaves which includes the town of Argelèz-Gazost as an ideal base for the region's most famous climbs. This area is more touristy and lively.
From here, climb the:
A third good option, slightly but to the east. You have plenty of famous climbs around you from here too, and the town has plenty of options for rental bikes, bike shops and fine accommodation.
From here, climb the:
Read more about Argeles-Gazost as a cycling destination here.
Luchon is one of the most visited cities in the Tour de France. It has often served as the starting or finishing point for stages in the Pyrenees. This is partly due to its strategic location at the foot of several iconic cols. However, Luchon is also a spa town, making it an attractive place for cyclists who also want to relax.
From here, climb the:
This small country in the Pyrenees is known among cyclists for its challenging cols that are often part of the Tour de France and Vuelta a España. With altitudes of over 2,000 metres, Andorra offers tough climbs and breathtaking views. The mountains here have a rougher, more alpine character compared to the more rolling cols elsewhere in the Pyrenees. Pro riders like to train in Andorra to train at altitude on quiet roads.
From Andorra, climb the:
Pyrénées-Orientales is a department in southern France, located in the Occitanie region. Located on the border with Spain, it has a unique combination of mountainous terrain and Mediterranean coastline. This makes it a great destination for cyclists looking for both tough climbs and more relaxed routes along the coast.
Did you know that this area has strong Catalan influences? Thanks to the historical ties between this region and neighbouring Catalonia, you can hear many locals speaking Catalan in this French department, for example.
Climb the:
Read here all about Femke's experience in the Pyrénées-Orientales!
Further south, you enter the Catalan Pyrenees. This area is less populated than the Pyrénées-Orientales and offers more unspoilt nature and quiet, remote roads.
Climb the:
Discover here More on cycling in Catalonia!
Girona is the cycling city of Europe. Many pro riders live here to train or come to spend the winter. Indeed, both the paved roads and the gravel routes in the area are fantastic. You will also find several nice cycling cafés in the old centre, which makes you feel like you are in a cycling paradise. Girona is located at the foot of the Catalan Pyrenees. From the city, you can therefore cycle fantastically in the foothills of the mountain range. It is an ideal destination if you are looking for a cycling destination where the weather is usually nice and where you can get into the mountains but also make fewer altimeters. Both gravel lovers and cyclists can have a great time here.
During your stay in Girona, at least climb the Els Àngels climb; the favourite climb of many a rider staying in the city. With an average gradient of only 3.6% and a length of about 10 kilometres, this is a popular climb. Not too tough, but perfect for training and with beautiful views.
Want to find out more about cycling in Girona? Then check out this article.
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