The Pyrenees are rugged, the climbs are irregular, the weather perhaps less predictable than in the Alps. Cycling in the Pyrenees is a feast for the eyes, but it is also a real challenge. Luckily, we will help you on your way with the best location for your next cycling adventure in the Pyrenees. Do you want to experience a top cycling adventure in the Pyrenees? Then go for an accommodation in Argelès-Gazost. From here, the most beautiful climbs are at your feet! We give you some great tips for a cycling holiday to remember
Argelès-Gazost - near Lourdes
If you have never been to the south of France you will not have heard of Argelès-Gazost. It is very strategically located in the Pyrenees. Not just for the climbs (we'll get to that in a moment), but also because of the route to get there. You're close to Lourdes, which is an important connection hub. Here you have a big train station, it is well connected by car and there is even an airport. Not only are the region's most famous climbs easily accessible, but the city itself offers everything you need for a worry-free cycling holiday.
Accessibility Argelès-Gazost
- By car: From the Netherlands, Argelès-Gazost is easily accessible by car. You can easily drive to the south of France via Paris and Bordeaux.
- By plane: The nearest airports are Tarbes-Lourdes-Pyrénées (25 km away) and Toulouse-Blagnac (about 2 hours away).
- By train: Lourdes has a large train station and is well connected to other French cities. From Lourdes, it is just a 15-minute drive to Argelès-Gazost.
Cycling facilities Argelès-Gazost
Argelès-Gazost is a town that understands cyclists. In this town you will find, among other things.
- Bike rental and bicycle mechanics: For repairs, parts and advice. Among others at Pyrenees-Bike you can go for repairs and rental bikes. Also CyclinPyrenees has good service and a wide range.
- Pubs, bakeries and restaurants: Ideal for replenishing your energy after a tough ride.
- Big tip is Boulangerie Lagrue. The world champion chocolate bread rolls, not to be missed! https://www.facebook.com/maisonlagrue/
- If you want really good food in the evening and you don't have food at the hotel: Auberge Cabaliros. Michelin also likes to come there, but they don't have that star (yet). It is located in neighbouring Arcizans-Avant
- Also tasty: Au Fond du Gosier. Prices are really very reasonable!
- Wellness centres and thermal baths: Perfect for recovery after a day of exertion.
Legendary Climbs in the Neighbourhood
From Argelès-Gazost, the most beautiful climbs are at your feet. Here is an overview of the most iconic cols you should not miss:
Col du Tourmalet (2,115 m)
- Distance: 17.2 km from Luz-Saint-Sauveur
- Average gradient: 7,4%
- Maximum increase: 10%
- Why cycling?: The Tourmalet is the king of the Pyrenees and the most ridden 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 difference: 1385 m, Average gradient: 7.6 %
Col d'Aubisque (1,709 m) via Col du Soulor
- Distance: 16.6 km from Argelès-Gazost
- Average gradient: 7,2%
- Why cycling?: A Tour de France classic, this col offers one of the most beautiful routes in the Pyrenees, especially when combined with the Col du Soulor.
Hautacam (1,520 m)
- Distance: 13 km from Argelès-Gazost
- Average gradient: 7,8%
- Why cycling?: One of the toughest climbs in the region because of its irregular climbs and steep sections. The climb has been a finish in the Tour de France several times.
Luz Ardiden (1,715 m)
- Distance: 14.7 km from Luz-Saint-Sauveur
- Average gradient: 7,7%
- Why cycling?: A spectacular climb with many hairpin bends. The climb ends at an altitude with stunning panoramic views. Sat many a time in the Tour de France.
Col d'Aspin (1,489 m)
- Distance: 12 km from Sainte-Marie-de-Campan
- Average gradient: 6,5%
- Why cycling?: A less difficult climb, but with breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys. Often combined with the Tourmalet.
Col de Spandelles (1,378 m)
- Distance: 16.3 km from Argelès-Gazost
- Average gradient: 6,5%
- Why cycling?: A lesser-known but beautiful climb with little traffic. Ideal for a quiet ride through nature.
Col des Tentes (2,208 m)
- Distance: 25 km from Luz-Saint-Sauveur
- Average gradient: 5,2%
- Why cycling?: A long climb ending at the impressive Cirque de Gavarnie, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Why choose Argelès-Gazost?
- Perfect Central Location
Argelès-Gazost is ideally located in relation to the major cols of the Pyrenees. Within a 50 km radius, you have access to a host of legendary climbs. - Variety in Routes
You can ride short, explosive rides as well as long, epic tours from Argelès-Gazost. 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 bicycle shelters to recovery meals, hotels and restaurants in the region are geared to cyclists. - Less touristy than the Alps
The Alps tend to be 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, past waterfalls, forests and impressive gorges.
Also check out our general page on Cycling in the Pyrenees here.
Best Accommodations for Cyclists
A good night's sleep and the right facilities will complete your cycling experience. Here are the best hotels in Argelès-Gazost for cyclists:
- L'Argalyde - Luxury suites with private Jacuzzis, wellness facilities and enclosed bike storage. Training base for Arkea Samsic in earlier seasons. Top notch facilities.
- Au Primerose Hôtel - A hotel especially for cyclists, with bike rental and extensive local cycling information. You also have special packages here and some cycling organisations also use it as a base
- Hôtel Beau Site - A quiet hotel with a workshop for cyclists and recovery meals.
- Logis Hôtel Les Cimes - With a spa and heated pool, ideal for recovery after tough rides.
Argelès-Gazost is the Best Base in the Pyrenees
Argelès-Gazost offers everything you are looking 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, your ultimate cycling adventure starts here. 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
