Trans-Pyrenean Highway, the Magic of the Pyrenees
Trans-Pyrenean Highway, the Magic of the Pyrenees
Tourmalet, Aspin, Paiheres, Peyresourde, ...
bike type
Highway
Duration
11 days
Profile
Sport
Distance and slope
988 km / +21.430 m
Trip Summary
Tourmalet, Aspin, Soulor, Aubisque, Peyresourde, … ascents where the best pages in the history of cycling have been written.
On this journey through the Pyrenees from the Mediterranean to the Cantabrian Sea, you will be able to climb those mythical mountain passes, where we have experienced the best days of the Tour de France.
What are you waiting for to sign up for one of the dates until the group is full? Or if you are more than six cyclists and want other dates doing it at your own pace, request a customized quote from us.
Date and availability
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Trip description
Live the Trans-Pyrenean route by road It's fulfilling one of the greatest dreams of every cycling enthusiast: crossing the Pyrenees from sea to seaconquering their most mythical ports and discovering the magic of the mountains day by day.
During ten stages by bicycleYou'll travel over 900 kilometers of pure cycling excitement. From the luminous Girona, along the Mediterranean, to the elegant DonostiBathed by the Cantabrian Sea, the route crosses valleys, hills and villages that are a living part of cycling history.
You'll upload legends like the Col du Tourmalet, Aspin, Soulor, Aubisque or PeyresourdeAnd you'll also discover lesser-known but equally spectacular climbs, such as The Pierre Saint-Martin, Latrape u OtxondoAll of them will offer you unique mountain landscapes: narrow and quiet roads, green pastures full of cattle, and that Pyrenean silence that is only broken by the hum of the wheels.
Each day, the group rides at the pace of each cyclist, with Bikefriendly support vehicle To ensure your comfort and safety. Water, isotonic drinks, fruit, pasta, energy bars, or nuts will always be available in the supplies along the routealong with technical assistance and the possibility of dropping off or picking up clothes depending on the conditions of the day.
More than a sporting challenge, the Transpirenaica Bikefriendly It is a life experience: camaraderie, breathtaking landscapes, and the satisfaction of completing a mythical journey between two seas.
An experience for those who dream of cycling through the French and Spanish Pyrenees, to feel the spirit of Tour de Francia and experience cycling in its most authentic form.
Itinerary
Briefing and welcome dinner
Briefing and welcome dinner
Begin the adventure of your life: the Trans-Pyrenees by road bike.
We are in Girona, one of the most bike-friendly cities in Europe and the perfect starting point for crossing the Pyrenees from sea to sea, from the Mediterranean to the Cantabrian Sea.
During the afternoon we will carry out the welcome briefingThere you'll meet your guide and the rest of the group with whom you'll share this unforgettable experience. We'll go over the route, logistics, and stages to ensure everything is ready before we start filming.
If you have time, we recommend taking a stroll through Girona's historic center: its medieval streets, its walls, and the cycling atmosphere that permeates every corner will make you feel like you're already part of cycling history.
A quiet day to fine-tune the bike, share our hopes and start dreaming about the great mountain passes and landscapes that await us in the coming days.
Because the Transpirenaica Bikefriendly It's not just a trip: it's a journey lived with the heart, pedal stroke by pedal stroke.
Girona – Campdevànol
Distance
95,4 Km
Elevation
+1.840m
Girona – Campdevànol
The real pedaling begins on our Transpyreneana perfect day for acclimate body and mind to what awaits us in the coming days: pure mountains, endless landscapes and cycling roads that invite you to enjoy.
We left GironaOne of the world's cycling capitals, surrounded by hills, forests, and secondary roads where many professionals train. From the very first kilometers, we immerse ourselves in a vibrant natural environment, traversing the magical landscapes of the Natural Park of the Volcanic Zone of La Garrotxawith dark soils, lush beech forests and charming villages like Santa Pau or Olot.
The first climbs of the trip await us in the Ports of Caselles and Canes, two ideal climbs for Find your rhythm, warm up your legs, and enjoy the relaxed pedaling., with gentle ramps and spectacular views of the Pre-Pyrenees.
arrival at CampdevànolNestled in the Ripoll Valley, this marks the end of the first stage. A small mountain village where the air already carries the scent of the Pyrenees, and where we'll rest before tackling the great climbs that await us.
A perfect day to savor the start of this adventure from sea to seaand begin to feel the excitement of exploring the Pyrenees by road bike.
Campdevànol – Llívia
Distance
81,5 Km
Elevation
+2.130m
Campdevànol – Llívia
Today's journey takes us deep into the Pyrenees. We leave behind the pre-Pyrenean valleys to ascend into the high mountains, where the air becomes fresher, the landscape wilder, and the roads more solitary.
From Campdevànol, we cycled through quiet roads that wind through forests and picturesque villages like Gombren o Castellar de n'Hug, Near the source of the Llobregat RiverA beautiful stretch, perfect for enjoying the surroundings and the smooth pedaling before tackling the day's big challenge: the Coll de la Creueta.
With almost 2.000 metersThe Creueta climb is long, steady, and without any extreme ramps, but its accumulated elevation gain is noticeable. The road gradually ascends, gaining altitude amidst pastures, meadows, and spectacular views of the eastern Pyrenees. It's a climb to savor, to look around and feel like you're cycling through nature.
From the top, a long and scenic descent It leads us between the La Molina and Masella ski resortsa quick and fun stretch before we delve into the Cerdanya Valley, one of the most beautiful areas of the mountain range.
Our arrival at LliviaA small Catalan enclave surrounded by French territory marks the perfect end to this stage. A day of pure cycling, of quiet roads and landscapes that encapsulate everything the region represents. Transpirenaica Bikefriendly: mountain, effort and freedom.
Llívia - Tarascon sur Ariège
Distance
111 km
Elevation
+2.010m
Llívia - Tarascon sur Ariège
The fourth stage marks a turning point in the TranspyreneanToday we delve deep into the heart of the French pyrenees, on a day that combines the beauty of the landscape with the excitement of facing the first great colossus of the trip.
The first part of the route takes place along the French Cerdanya, a territory of green valleys and quiet roads winding through forests and small townsA constant up and down that allows you to warm up your legs and enjoy the calm of the surroundings before what's to come.
In the second half of the stage, we have the Col de Pailhères, one of the most imposing giants of the Pyrenees. A mountain pass Hors Catégorie more than 15 kilometers at an average gradient of 7,7%.A long, steady, and demanding climb, where every bend offers a new perspective of the valley. As we gain altitude, the landscape becomes breathtaking: alpine meadows, grazing horses, and the distant echo of the Tour de France.
At the summit, nearly 2.000 meters high, the views reward the effort with a breathtaking panorama. It's one of those places where time stands still, and all that's left is to savor the accomplishment and the silence of the mountain.
After regaining his strength, he arrives long and technical descent through the Ariège valleywhich leads us to Tarascon-sur-Ariege, a charming village on the riverbank that will be our well-deserved rest after a spectacular day.
A complete, demanding and beautiful stage: pure high mountain bikingWith the Pailhères as the main attraction and the spirit of the Pyrenees accompanying us with every pedal stroke.
Tarascon sur Ariège - Saint Girons
Distance
87 km
Elevation
+1.960m
Tarascon sur Ariège - Saint Girons
The fifth day of the Transpyrenean It takes us through the region of AriègeA green, wild, and silent territory. There are no great giants here, but the constant ups and downs of the terrain It subtly and deliciously toughens the route, offering a day of pure cycling, rhythm, cadence and endless landscapes.
The stage makes its way between large groves, narrow roads and mountain villages where time seems to stand still. The surroundings are serene, fresh, and green, and each valley holds its own unique charm.
On our way we will summit three mountain passes with their own names: the Port of Lers, the Agnes pass and the Latrape PassNone of them reach great altitudes, but they all share the same Pyrenean character: irregular climbs, linked curves and views that reward every pedal stroke.
As we move forward, the landscape reminds us that we are entering the epicenter of the Pyrenees cycling, that territory where the great feats of Tour de Francia They have been written with sweat and legend.
arrival at Saint-GironsA charming mountain village surrounded by hills and pastures, will be the perfect reward after a day of authentic cycling.
A stage of transition, but also of enjoyment and connection with the purest essence of French pyrenees: nature, calm and passion for cycling.
Saint Girons - Saint Lary Soulan
Distance
119 km
Elevation
+2.860m
Saint Girons - Saint Lary Soulan
One of the great days of this is here Trans-Pyrenees by road bikeThe longest, most demanding, and also one of the most memorable stages. Ahead of us lie almost 3.000 meters of positive height difference and three ports full of history and emotion.
From Saint-Gironsthe road begins to rise gently towards the Portet d'AspetA short but intense climb, surrounded by forests and silence. On the technical and fast descent, we'll pass by the monument in memory of Fabio Casartelli, a sacred place for any cycling enthusiast, inviting you to pause for a moment and pay homage to the spirit of effort and overcoming challenges.
With hardly any rest, we faced the Col de Menteanother classic from Tour de FranciaWith gradients exceeding 9% and a mountain setting that reminds you why this climb is a hidden gem of the Pyrenees, its kilometers combine difficulty, beauty, and that mystical atmosphere that only the greatest cycling stages possess.
After the descent, the route takes us to Bagnères-de-Luchon, where the climb to Peyresourde cabbageOne of the most iconic and frequently featured climbs in Tour history. A long, steady ascent with spectacular views and the constant feeling of riding on a legendary road.
To crown the Peyresourde It's about savoring cycling at its finest. From there, the descent towards Saint-Lary-Soulan It takes us straight to the heart of the high mountains, the cycling mecca in the French Pyrenees and our resting point after an epic day.
A true queen stage: demanding, historic and full of emotion.
Because days like this are what make the Transpyrenean become an experience that is etched in your memory forever.
Saint Lary – Lourdes
Distance
101 km
Elevation
+2.390m
Saint Lary – Lourdes
arrive main event of the Trans-Pyrenees BikefriendlyA stage every cyclist dreams of experiencing at least once in their life. Today we cross through the heart of the French pyreneesascending two of its most legendary passes: the Col d'Aspin and the imposing Col du Tourmalet.
From Saint-Lary-SoulanThe road begins to gently gain altitude until it enters the forests of AspinA gentle, steady climb, perfect for warming up your legs and enjoying the mountain scenery. Its verdant slopes and panoramic descent towards the Campan valley are just a prelude to what's to come: the great colossus.
El Tourmalet It needs no introduction. With its 2.115 metersIt is one of the most legendary climbs in Tour de Francia And an eternal symbol of cycling. Its difficulty lies not only in the steep climbs, but also in the history held within every bend and every stone. To climb it is to feel part of something bigger, to share the effort with the legends who wrote the most glorious pages of cycling here.
The wind at the summit, the endless views, and the feeling of accomplishment will make this one of the most exciting moments of the entire trip. From there, a long and spectacular descent It will take us to Lourdes, where we will finish the stage with the satisfaction of having overcome one of the toughest and most beautiful days of the journey.
An unforgettable day, one of those that sums up what it means to cycle through the Pyrenees: effort, respect, grandeur and emotion.
Because climb the Tourmalet It's not just about reaching a summit, it's about touching history with your own hands.
Lourdes - Oloron Sainte Marie
Distance
96 km
Elevation
+1.880m
Lourdes - Oloron Sainte Marie
La Transpyrenean The journey continues through legendary terrain. Today, one of the most spectacular stages of the trip awaits us, featuring two names that encapsulate the essence of mountain biking: the Soulor pass and the Aubisque Pass.
From LourdesThe day begins with the climb to SoulorA steady and thoroughly enjoyable climb, perfect for getting into a rhythm as the landscape unfolds with each ascent. At the summit, a short rest will allow us to catch our breath and prepare for the highlight of the day: the majestic Aubisque Pass.
El Aubisque It's pure history of Tour de FranciaIts curves carved in the rock, its balconies hanging over the valley and giant bicycles The peaks that crown it are a symbol of the passion for this sport. Climbing it is an experience that goes beyond physical effort: it's a direct connection to the epic nature of cycling.
From the summit, the long descent offers one of the most beautiful downhill runs in the Pyrenees, following the course of the valley until reaching Oloron-Sainte-Marie, a charming village in the Atlantic Pyrenees where a well-deserved rest awaits us.
A perfect day: historic mountain passes, breathtaking landscapes, and that feeling of fulfillment that can only be achieved after a great day in the mountains.
Because every kilometer in the Aubisque and the Soulor It leaves an indelible mark on the memory of any cyclist.
Oloron – Ochagavia
Distance
95 km
Elevation
+2.200m
Oloron – Ochagavia
La Transpirenaica Bikefriendly Today we enter the final stretch of our journey. We leave the French Pyrenees behind to enter fully into the Basque Country and Navarra, a land of green hills, endless pastures and roads that wind through mountains full of history and character.
The landscape changes completely: the gray tones of the rock give way to intense green of the Atlantic PyreneesAnd the atmosphere becomes more humid, more vibrant, more intimate. But let no one be complacent: the ambushes Typical features of this area appear one after another, making the route harder almost without us noticing.
The big challenge of the day comes with The Pierre Saint-Martin, a port that for years was a well-kept secret until the Tour de Francia It made it legendary. The slopes alternate between gentle sections and much more demanding ones, and the surroundings combine forest, meadow, and high mountain terrain. A long, beautiful, and challenging climb that will make you understand why this summit has earned its place in history.
After the summit, the descent takes us towards Navarre, and we will still have to overcome the Portillo de LazarA short but intense climb that will test whatever strength you have left in your legs. Don't let its name fool you: the Lazar demands respect.
arrival at Ochagavía, one of the most picturesque villages in the Navarrese Pyrenees, will be the perfect reward for a demanding and beautiful day.
A transitional stage towards the end of the route, full of landscape, authenticity and cycling spiritwhich makes it clear that every kilometer of this journey is a story that deserves to be told.
Ochagavía – Etxalar
Distance
111 km
Elevation
+2.080m
Ochagavía – Etxalar
La Transpyrenean It's nearing its end, but it still holds one of those stages that perfectly encapsulates the essence of the Pyrenees. Today we will cross natural borders between Spain and Francerolling along narrow, green and winding roads, where every curve invites you to enjoy cycling in its most authentic version.
This day combines the best of both sides of the Pyrenees: the Navarrese landscape, with its white farmhouses and endless meadows, and the charm of the French Basque Country, with its wooded valleys and mountain roads that seem designed for cyclists.
The route is a constant ups and downsWithout great giants, but with hardly any respite. ports of Azpegi, Otxondo, Ispeguy and Lizarrieta They will set the pace of the day. They all share the same spirit: short, irregular, and characterful climbs that force you to stay focused and savor every pedal stroke. These are passes that don't intimidate with their statistics, but rather with their energy and beauty.
Throughout the day, the views alternate between mountains covered in beech forests, small border villages, and roads that seem to disappear into the greenery. It's a demanding, ever-changing, and beautiful stage, one that's enjoyed more with the heart than with the legs.
arrival at Etxalar, one of the most beautiful villages in Navarrese PyreneesIt will be a gift for the senses: cobbled streets, red tiled roofs and that peaceful atmosphere that invites you to celebrate what you have experienced.
A day that combines the French soul and the Basque character, and that makes it clear that the Trans-Pyrenees by road bike It is much more than a challenge: it is a journey through the history, culture and emotion of the Pyrenees.
Etxalar - Donostia
Distance
91 km
Elevation
+2.080m
Etxalar - Donostia
We couldn't have imagined a better ending to this great adventure. Last day of the Transpirenaica Bikefriendly It takes us to the Cantabrian Sea, following the spirit and route of one of cycling's most emblematic events: the Classic of San Sebastián.
From EtxalarThe route leads us through a green, mountainous, and vibrant landscape, with the scent of the sea drawing ever closer. The first climbs of the day, Aya y AritxuleguiThey serve to warm up the legs and enjoy the Basque landscape in all its splendor: humid forests, scattered farmhouses and narrow roads where cycling is lived with passion.
In the second half of the stage we headed towards Hondarribia, a jewel of the Basque coast, starting point of the last great challenge: the mythical JaizkibelThis port, a protagonist every year in the Classic of San SebastiánIt's the perfect ending to a dream ride. Its challenging ramps and views over the sea make the climb an epic moment, a blend of effort, excitement, and cycling pride.
From the summit, all that remains is to let yourself be carried away by the emotion and the descent towards Donostia / San Sebastián, where he Ocean It welcomes us as both witness and reward. There our journey ends: 11 days, 10 stages, and countless landscapes, emotions, and memories.
A round of applause for those who made it possible.
Bravo! You've crossed the Pyrenees from sea to sea. You've completed the Bikefriendly Trans-Pyrenees.
Advantages of booking your event with BikeFriendly
Culture
Cross the Pyrenees from Girona to San Sebastian It's much more than a cycling challenge: it's a journey through the history, landscapes, and cultures that bring this unique mountain range to life. Transpirenaica Bikefriendly It connects the Mediterranean with the Cantabrian Sea, uniting territories that, despite their diversity, share the same essence: the mountains, hospitality and love for nature.
During the journey, the cyclist discovers the cultural richness of the Pyrenees in all its forms: the medieval villages of Catalonia, the quiet, rural valleys of the French Ariège, the high-mountain cycling villages in the heart of the Tour de France, and the vitality of the Basque Country and Navarrawhere tradition and daily life blend with the green of the meadows.
Every kilometer tells a story. From the cobblestone streets of Girona even the shimmer of the sea in DonostiaThe Trans-Pyrenees route is a journey through cultures, accents and ways of life that coexist among mountains.
A route that unites not only two seas, but also the most authentic essence of the Pyrenees.
Weather
El Summer is the best time to explore the Pyrenees by road bike.During the months of June to September, the Transpirenaica Bikefriendly It takes place under an ideal climate for cycling: cool mornings, mild days and clear skies that accompany the long days of pedaling through the mountains.
The route crosses different microclimates, from the Mediterranean environment of Gironawith mild temperatures, up to the Atlantic humidity of the Basque Countrywhere green dominates everything. In the high mountain stages, especially on the great passes like the Tourmalet and creuetaThe air becomes cooler and it is common for the temperature to drop below 10°C in the early hours of the day.
In general, the maximum temperatures range between 20 ° C and 28 ° CAnd although the sun is usually the main attraction, occasional rain or valley fogs are part of the charm of the Pyrenean landscape.
The perfect weather to enjoy cycling in its purest form: clean air, quiet roads and that golden light that only exists in the mountains.
Each sunrise on the Trans-Pyrenees route has a different color, but they all invite you to do the same thing: pedal, breathe, and enjoy.
Gastronomy
Tour the Pyrenees It is also a journey through the flavors and aromas that define this mountain range. Transpirenaica Bikefriendly It invites you to enjoy gastronomy as an essential part of the experience: traditional dishes, local products and that hospitality that is tasted as much as it is felt.
In the eastern section, the aromas of the Mediterranean mingle with Catalan mountain cuisine: bread with tomato, cured meats, artisanal cheeses, and game stews. As we venture deeper into the French Pyrenees, the table bursts with flavor from the foie gras, sheep cheeses from Béarn, the homemade soups and the wine of Jurançon, perfect for toasting after a great day of cycling.
Already in Navarre and the Basque Country, the journey comes to an end between Pintxos, cider and traditional Basque cuisineWhere the sea and the land come together in simple yet flavorful dishes. Eating here is about sharing, celebrating, and joyfully recharging.
Because the Transpyrenean It's not just about pedaling, it's about savoring the experience.
Every port, every town, and every meal is part of the same story: the story of the pleasure of traveling, discovering, and enjoying the journey.
Land
La Transpirenaica Bikefriendly It is a journey designed for lovers of high mountain road cyclingA demanding and spectacular route that combines long climbs, scenic descents and quiet roads that wind through valleys and charming villages.
The road surface, in general, is excellent, especially in the French areas, where there are many secondary roads with good asphalt and little trafficThe stages link mythical ports of the Tour de France —like the Tourmalet, Aubisque, Aspin or Peyresourde— with others less well known but equally beautiful, such as La Pierre Saint-Martin or the Hourquette d'Ancizan.
The route alternates high mountain stages with more rolling daysalways maintaining a balance between challenge and enjoyment. The variety of terrain—from the gentle slopes of La Garrotxa to the rugged giants of the central Pyrenees and the constant ups and downs of the Basque Country—makes this trip a complete experience, both physically and emotionally.
Each port has its own character, each valley its own rhythm, and each descent its own reward.
Because the Trans-Pyrenees by road bike It's not just a route: it's a pure cycling lesson, with the Pyrenees as the backdrop and the wind as your travel companion.
Included services
Accommodations
Accommodations in a shared room. Possibility of choosing an extra single room.
Half pension
Breakfast and dinner at the hotel.
Gobik jersey
A souvenir Gobik brand jersey will be given to all bookings made 60 days before the date of this trip.
Briefing
Welcome briefing to explain the trip and answer questions.
Support vehicle
Support vehicle with mechanical service, possibility of changing clothes or getting into the vehicle during the route.
Luggage transfer
Luggage transfer between accommodations.
Refreshments en route
Solid and liquid supplies en route.
Route itinerary
Tracks of the stages, so you can load them on your GPS device or App that you normally use.
Not included
Not included
Any service not detailed in the Included Services section
Arrival at the meeting point
Arrival at the meeting point in Girona and return home at the end of the trip in Donosti.
Beverages
All drinks for lunch and dinner.
Additional to hire
Supplement for single occupancy room
If you prefer to sleep alone in the room, hire the supplement.
Assistance and cancellation insurance
If you think something unforeseen may arise, you can take out cancellation or travel assistance insurance.
Bike rental
If you need a rental bike, ask us, we can help you arrange it with a local company.
Non-cycling companion
Your companion will enjoy accommodation and half board.
Extra night at the end of the trip
If you want to stay one more night before returning home, you can hire it.
20% discount on a training plan with Sergio Bike
If you book your trip 8 months before the start date, you will receive a 20% discount on the different training plans offered by Sergio Bike.
*Check our cancellation policy.
Gallery
Testimonials
The work being done by Bicycles Without Borders and Bikefriendly is commendable and makes me think there is still hope in the world.
I've seen firsthand that this project is real and not just a gimmick. The idea is truly brilliant, and it's helping many children and adolescents continue their education in a very meaningful way, as it's not a charity, but a means for the local population to develop.
The immersive experience in the country is complete, and traveling around the country by bike helps us feel fully integrated into the environment. In just one week, we've been able to understand and learn a lot about this country and its wonderful people, who are materially poor but spiritually rich.
I take my hat off to the work done by both the guide Sergio and the local team, which included Alpha, my lifelong friend and very professional, as well as Idi, Maurice, and Sidy.
I will definitely recommend this trip.
I recommend it, the routes exceeded my expectations! The hotels were good and the food was very good.
FAQs
I have allergies or intolerances. Can you adapt the menus?
Even though there are refreshment stations... do I have to bring my water and bars?
What will the group's rhythm be?
How are shared rooms?
Where will the support vehicle be?
Do you have any doubt? Ask us!
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