Trans-Pyrenean Highway, the Magic of the Pyrenees
Trans-Pyrenean Highway, the Magic of the Pyrenees
Cross the Pyrenees from sea to sea on a road cycling trip, conquering the Tourmalet, Aubisque, Aspin, Peyresourde and other legendary Tour de France passes.
bike type
Highway
Duration
11 days
Profile
Sport
Distance and slope
988 km / +21.430 m
Trip Summary
Cross the Pyrenees conquering the most mythical passes of the Tour de France
Tourmalet, Aspin, Aubisque, Soulor, Peyresourde, La Pierre Saint-Martin… Names that are part of the history of cycling and that, on this cycling trip through the Pyrenees , you will have the opportunity to climb, linking the Mediterranean and the Cantabrian Sea on your bicycle.
An adventure designed for road cycling enthusiasts , taking in the most legendary mountain passes of the Tour de France and some of the most spectacular landscapes in Europe.
You can join one of our group outings until all places are filled, or if you are a group of six or more cyclists , organize your own tailor-made trip on dates that best suit you.
Date and availability
Join the Bikefriendly Club and get an automatic 10% discount for this trip.
Trip description
Experience the Trans-Pyrenees: a cycling journey from sea to sea through the Pyrenees
The Trans-Pyrenees Bikefriendly route is one of those journeys every road cyclist dreams of doing at least once in their life. A unique crossing that links the Mediterranean and the Cantabrian Sea , covering more than 900 kilometers and conquering some of the most legendary mountain passes of the Tour de France.
During ten stages you will cycle from Girona to Donostia-San Sebastián , climbing giants such as the Tourmalet, Aubisque, Soulor, Aspin, Peyresourde or La Pierre Saint-Martin , while discovering quiet roads, high mountain landscapes and villages with a deep cycling tradition.
You will travel accompanied by the Bikefriendly team , with a support vehicle , supplies during the stages, technical assistance and everything necessary so that you only have to worry about enjoying every port and every kilometer.
More than a sporting challenge, the Transpirenaica is an experience that combines self-improvement, camaraderie and the excitement of crossing the Pyrenees by bicycle following the spirit of the great stages of the Tour de France.
Itinerary
Welcome to Girona: the Trans-Pyrenees Bikefriendly route begins
Welcome to Girona: the Trans-Pyrenees Bikefriendly route begins
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.
This afternoon we'll have a welcome briefing where you'll meet your guide and the rest of the group with whom you'll share this unforgettable experience. We'll review 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.
From Girona to Campdevànol: the gateway to the Pyrenees
Distance
95,4 Km
Elevation
+1.840m
From Girona to Campdevànol: the gateway to the Pyrenees
Day 2. From Girona to Campdevànol: first stage towards the Pyrenees
We started pedaling on this Bikefriendly Trans-Pyrenees route , leaving Girona behind to enter the first mountain landscapes that will accompany us for the next few days.
The route crosses the spectacular Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park , traveling along quiet roads through forests, volcanoes and charming villages such as Santa Pau and Olot , two of the most authentic corners of inland Catalonia.
During the stage we will face the Caselles and Canes mountain passes , ideal climbs to find the rhythm and start enjoying road cycling in a privileged environment.
We will end the day in Campdevànol , gateway to the Pyrenees, where we will rest before tackling the great mountain passes that await us on this unforgettable cycling journey from the Mediterranean to the Cantabrian Sea.
Coll de la Creueta and arrival in Cerdanya
Distance
81,5 Km
Elevation
+2.130m
Coll de la Creueta and arrival in Cerdanya
Day 3. Coll de la Creueta and arrival in Cerdanya
The Trans-Pyrenees route enters the high mountains today. From Campdevànol, we'll travel along quiet Pyrenean roads, passing through charming villages like Gombrèn and Castellar de n'Hug , very close to the source of the Llobregat River.
The highlight of the day will be the Coll de la Creueta (1.920 m) , one of the most spectacular mountain passes in the eastern Pyrenees. Its long and steady ascent will reward us with magnificent views of alpine meadows, forests, and sweeping mountain panoramas.
After reaching the summit, we will enjoy a long descent passing by the La Molina and Masella ski resorts , before arriving at the wide valley of Cerdanya.
The stage will end in Llívia , a unique Catalan enclave surrounded by French territory, putting the finishing touch on a day of authentic road cycling in the Pyrenees.
Col de Pailhères: the first great colossus of the Pyrenees
Distance
111 km
Elevation
+2.010m
Col de Pailhères: the first great colossus of the Pyrenees
Day 4. Col de Pailhères: the first great colossus of the Trans-Pyrenees
Today we will cross the border to enter the heart of the French Pyrenees , where one of the most spectacular stages of the Trans-Pyrenees awaits us.
The day begins by traveling along the quiet roads of the French Cerdanya , between valleys, forests and small mountain villages, before facing the great challenge of the day: the Col de Pailhères , a Hors Catégorie pass with more than 15 kilometers of ascent and protagonist of several editions of the Tour de France.
As we gain altitude, the landscape transforms into a scene of alpine meadows, peaks and wide panoramas that make this climb one of the most beautiful in the Pyrenees.
After reaching the summit of Pailhères, we will enjoy a long descent to Tarascon-sur-Ariège , where we will finish an unforgettable stage of authentic high mountain biking.
Port de Lers, Col d'Agnes and Col de Latrape
Distance
87 km
Elevation
+1.960m
Port de Lers, Col d'Agnes and Col de Latrape
Day 5. Port de Lers, Col d'Agnes and Col de Latrape
The Trans-Pyrenees route continues through the spectacular French Pyrenees , traversing the green Ariège region , a territory of quiet roads, forests and small mountain villages where cycling can be enjoyed in its purest form.
During the stage we will climb the Port de Lers , the Col d'Agnes and the Col de Latrape , three passes that, with their constant changes of pace and their magnificent panoramas, will bring us closer to the heart of the great stages of the Tour de France.
The day will end in Saint-Girons , a charming Pyrenean town that will welcome us after a day of authentic mountain biking, surrounded by nature and some of the most beautiful landscapes in the French Pyrenees.
Col de Peyresourde, Menté and Portet d'Aspet: the queen stage
Distance
119 km
Elevation
+2.860m
Col de Peyresourde, Menté and Portet d'Aspet: the queen stage
Day 6. Portet d'Aspet, Col de Menté and Col de Peyresourde: the queen stage
Today we will face the queen stage of the Trans-Pyrenees , one of the most demanding and exciting days of the trip, with nearly 3.000 meters of positive elevation gain and three legendary mountain passes from the Tour de France.
From Saint-Girons, we'll climb the Portet d'Aspet , passing by the poignant monument dedicated to Fabio Casartelli , one of the most iconic landmarks in world cycling. Next, we'll tackle the Col de Menté , a challenging climb that will take us to Bagnères-de-Luchon , before beginning the ascent of the legendary Col de Peyresourde , featured in countless Tour de France stages.
After conquering one of the great mountain passes of the Pyrenees, a spectacular descent will take us to Saint-Lary-Soulan , one of the most emblematic cycling destinations in the mountain range.
An epic stage that brings together history, high mountains and some of the most legendary mountain passes in road cycling.
Tourmalet and Col d'Aspin: the great legend of the Tour de France
Distance
101 km
Elevation
+2.390m
Tourmalet and Col d'Aspin: the great legend of the Tour de France
Day 7. Col d'Aspin and Col du Tourmalet: the queen stage of the Transpyrenean
Today we tackle the queen stage of the Transpirenaica Bikefriendly , a day every road cyclist dreams of experiencing. From Saint-Lary-Soulan, we'll conquer two of the most legendary climbs of the Tour de France : the Col d'Aspin and the mythical Col du Tourmalet (2.115 m).
We will begin the stage by ascending the Col d'Aspin , a steady climb through forests and green meadows that will lead us to the Campan valley, the prelude to the great challenge of the day.
Next, we'll tackle the Col du Tourmalet , the most iconic mountain pass in the Pyrenees and one of the greatest symbols of world cycling. Every bend of this historic climb brings us closer to a summit where some of the most memorable moments of the Tour de France have been written.
After reaching the summit of the Tourmalet and enjoying spectacular views over the mountain range, we will begin a long descent to Lourdes , bringing to an end an epic stage that represents the essence of high mountain cycling.
An unforgettable day for any cycling enthusiast, where effort is transformed into the satisfaction of having conquered one of the most mythical mountain passes in the history of cycling.
Col d'Aubisque and Col du Soulor: two icons of the Tour de France
Distance
96 km
Elevation
+1.880m
Col d'Aubisque and Col du Soulor: two icons of the Tour de France
Day 8. Col du Soulor and Col d'Aubisque: two mythical mountain passes of the Tour de France
The Trans-Pyrenees continues through the heart of the French Pyrenees with a stage that links two of the most emblematic mountain passes of the Tour de France : the Col du Soulor and the legendary Col d'Aubisque.
We will depart from Lourdes to tackle the ascent to the Soulor , a steady climb that will allow us to enjoy spectacular panoramic views over the Pyrenean valleys before linking up with the Col d'Aubisque , one of the great icons of road cycling.
The Aubisque is one of those peaks every cyclist dreams of conquering. Its roads clinging to the mountainside, its breathtaking views, and its prominent role in the history of the Tour de France make this climb an unforgettable experience.
After reaching the summit, a long descent will take us to Oloron-Sainte-Marie , where we will finish another epic day traveling through some of the most legendary landscapes of world cycling.
La Pierre Saint-Martin and Portillo de Lazar: heading towards Navarre
Distance
95 km
Elevation
+2.200m
La Pierre Saint-Martin and Portillo de Lazar: heading towards Navarre
Day 9. La Pierre Saint-Martin and Portillo de Lazar: entrance to the Navarrese Pyrenees
The Transpirenaica Bikefriendly route enters its final stretch, leaving behind the French Pyrenees to enter Navarre , where new landscapes and two demanding climbs await us.
The star of the day will be La Pierre Saint-Martin , a high mountain pass that rose to fame thanks to the Tour de France . Its ascent combines long ramps, spectacular panoramic views, and a landscape that alternates between forests, meadows, and wide open spaces, making it one of the most unique peaks in the Pyrenees.
After a long descent we will cross the border to face the Portillo de Lazar , a short but demanding climb that will put the sporting finale to the day before arriving in Ochagavía , considered one of the most beautiful villages in the Navarrese Pyrenees.
A stage that combines high mountains, nature and some of the most authentic roads in the entire Trans-Pyrenees route.
Azpegi, Ispeguy, Otxondo and Lizarrieta: the most authentic Pyrenees
Distance
111 km
Elevation
+2.080m
Azpegi, Ispeguy, Otxondo and Lizarrieta: the most authentic Pyrenees
Day 10. Azpegi, Otxondo, Ispeguy and Lizarrieta: the essence of the Navarrese and Basque Pyrenees
The Trans-Pyrenees route faces its penultimate stage by traversing some of the most authentic roads of the Navarrese Pyrenees and the French Basque Country , a territory of green mountains, small towns and mountain passes with a special charm.
During the day we will climb Azpegi, Otxondo, Ispeguy and Lizarrieta , four mountain passes that, with their constant changes of pace and quiet roads, offer a cycling experience that is as demanding as it is spectacular.
The route alternates between forests, meadows and border villages, revealing one of the most unknown and beautiful areas of the Pyrenees, where nature and tradition accompany every kilometer.
We will finish the stage in Etxalar , one of the most charming villages in the Navarrese Pyrenees, after a day that perfectly reflects the diversity and beauty of this great cycling journey from sea to sea.
Jaizkibel and arrival in San Sebastián: the grand finale of the Trans-Pyrenees
Distance
91 km
Elevation
+2.080m
Jaizkibel and arrival in San Sebastián: the grand finale of the Trans-Pyrenees
Day 11. Jaizkibel and arrival in San Sebastián: the end of the Trans-Pyrenees crossing from sea to sea
The final stage of the Transpirenaica Bikefriendly will take us to the Cantabrian Sea , putting the finishing touch on one of the great cycling journeys in Europe.
From Etxalar we will travel along the green roads of the Basque Country, ascending the Aia , Aritxulegi and the legendary Jaizkibel passes , one of the great protagonists of the Clásica de San Sebastián and an essential climb for any road cycling enthusiast.
After reaching the summit of Jaizkibel, an exciting descent will lead us to Donostia-San Sebastián , where the Cantabrian Sea will mark the end of this unforgettable adventure.
After 11 days and 10 stages , you will have linked the Mediterranean and the Cantabrian Sea, crossing the Pyrenees and conquering some of the most legendary climbs of the Tour de France . A journey you will remember forever and which will be remembered as one of the greatest challenges in road cycling.
Congratulations! You have completed the Transpirenaica Bikefriendly.
Advantages of booking your event with BikeFriendly
Culture
Culture and tradition along the Trans-Pyrenees
The Transpirenaica Bikefriendly is much more than a cross-country cycling trip. It's an experience that connects the Mediterranean and the Cantabrian Sea , passing through some of the most historic landscapes and villages in the Pyrenees.
Throughout the route, you'll discover the rich culture of Catalonia, France, Navarre, and the Basque Country , cycling through medieval villages, high mountain valleys, and landscapes steeped in the history of the Tour de France . Each stage offers a new perspective on the Pyrenees, its gastronomy, its traditions, and the hospitality of its inhabitants.
A journey that connects two seas and four territories, allowing you to discover the authentic essence of the Pyrenees on a bicycle.
Climate
The best weather for cycling the Trans-Pyrenees route
Summer is the best time to cycle the Trans-Pyrenees route . Between June and September , you'll enjoy ideal cycling weather, with temperatures typically ranging from 18°C to 28°C in the valleys and from 8°C to 18°C on the mountain passes.
Along the route, you'll travel from the Mediterranean atmosphere of Girona to the Atlantic climate of San Sebastián , crossing some of the most spectacular landscapes in the Pyrenees. On legendary climbs like the Tourmalet or La Creueta , the mornings are usually cool and the clear air makes each mountain pass an unforgettable experience.
The long days, stable weather and quiet roads make this time of year the perfect time to enjoy one of Europe's great cycling routes.
Gastronomy
Pyrenees gastronomy: flavors that accompany each stage
The Transpirenaica Bikefriendly route is also a gastronomic journey through some of the most authentic areas of the Pyrenees. Each stage offers the opportunity to discover local cuisine and refuel with high-quality, traditional products.
From Catalan cuisine, with its cured meats, artisanal cheeses, and bread with tomato, to the mountain cuisine of the French Pyrenees , where foie gras , Béarn cheeses, and traditional recipes take center stage. The journey concludes in Navarre and the Basque Country , enjoying their famous pintxos , cider, and some of the world's most renowned cuisines.
Because cycling the Trans-Pyrenees route is also about discovering the flavors, hospitality, and traditions that make the Pyrenees unique.
Land
Legendary roads for crossing the Pyrenees by bicycle
The Transpirenaica Bikefriendly route runs along some of the best mountain roads in Europe, linking legendary Tour de France passes with spectacular secondary roads with little traffic and excellent asphalt.
During the journey we will ascend giants such as the Tourmalet, Aubisque, Aspin, Peyresourde, La Pierre Saint-Martin or the Hourquette d'Ancizan , combining long climbs, unforgettable descents and valleys that invite you to enjoy every kilometer.
From the Mediterranean to the Cantabrian Sea, this journey offers a varied and demanding route, designed for road cyclists who dream of experiencing one of the great cycling routes in Europe.
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.
*See our cancellation policy.
Gallery
REVIEWS
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.
FAQ
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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