Crossing the Pyrenees

Southern France & Northern Spain

Currently this trip is only available for private groups (ten or more people).

Discover a remote and fascinating region of Europe. The Pyrenees have always been a magical realm apart - a source of legend, superstition and myth. The snow-capped range has protected within its valleys the last vestiges of numerous ancient cultures and remains one of the last strongholds of a genuinely-preserved natural environment.

Join us on a ride that proceeds from the surf-pounded Atlantic coast to the balmy beaches of the Mediterranean. Between lies an unequaled diverse region of lush meadowland, ice-clad peaks, bare rock-canyons, eroded limestone pinnacles, and dense forests. Our route traverses the border between France and Spain as it winds through the green, cultivated foothills of the breathtaking Pyrenees range.

The centuries of history played out in this area have left behind a very diverse and sumptuous cuisine. Basque food is recognized as Spain’s finest and garners respect even in France. Immense seafood-platters, grilled sardines, fish stews, paella, and mountain cheeses are typical examples of the regional specialties. Clear-water streams are brimming with trout and salmon. The deer, pigs, quail, ducks, and geese of the mountains add to the bounty. There is a wide variety of wines to sample, including the renowned vintages of nearby Bordeaux and the Spanish wines, which are traditionally served from large barrels.

Plan to arrive at Biarritz Airport (France) no later than Friday morning.

Friday, St. Jean de Luz
(Biarritz) Explore this resort-town that has managed to maintain its lively fishing port. We’ll have an optional warm-up ride across the border into Spain. Welcome-party and dinner tonight.

Saturday, Hasparren
Today we experience rolling-hills carpeted by lush, green vegetation. Along the way you will have time to explore the most beautiful Basque villages in France.

Sunday, Oloron St. Marie
Deep oak and beech forests are punctuated by villages of half-timbered houses with red shutters set against white plaster. Oloron is known for the manufacture of the traditional French beret.

Monday, Lestelle Betharram
The mountains are so close today that you can almost reach out and touch them. Visit the famous Betharram Caves or take an optional ride over the Col d’Aubisque.

Tuesday, Luz St. Sauveur
The beautiful Pau River valley and woods take us to the religious center of Lourdes. From here we cycle a narrow valley to Luz and Cirque du Gavarnie, with its sheer rock face divided by a long lace-like waterfall.

Wednesday, Marie de Campan
A memorable ride over the famous Col du Tourmalet. This has been included in numerous Tour de France events, and has been the scene of some of the greatest action, drama, and exploits. Don’t hesitate taking a short boost in the support vehicle.

Thursday & Friday, Bagneres de Luchon
Another day to follow the Tour de France route. Stop at the picturesque medieval market-building in Arreau for picnic supplies. Our hotel is located in a quiet private park. Visit the thermal baths and enjoy a relaxing massage!

Saturday, Arties
We cross the border into Spain to the Valley of Aran. Isolated from the outside world for centuries, the region developed its own language (Aranes) and is still considered as one of the most remote parts of the Pyrenees.

Sunday, Sort
Climb past the ski-resort of Baqueira-Beret and then enjoy a 34-mile-downhill ride along the Noguera Pallaresa, the most powerful river in the Spanish Pyrenees.

Monday, La Seu D’Urgell
Relish in the fantastic vistas afforded of the valley below and the small stone villages perched on steep hill tops. Our overnight-stay is in a Parador built on the site of a 14th C Romanesque church.

Tuesday, Puigcerda
The beautiful Segre River valley will be a pleasant memory of our last night in Spain. An optional ride crosses the border to tiny Andorra, Europe’s last surviving feudal protectorate.

Wednesday, Quillan
Cross the border back into France and discover the Catlan region known for the beauty of its landscape. Delight in a 37-mile-downhill ride through vast forest lands.

Thursday, St. Cyprien
(Perpignan) Our last cycling day takes us through sun-drenched vineyards sloping down the hillsides as we reach the sandy Mediterranean. Farewell party and dinner tonight.

Friday
After breakfast we’ll take you to the local train station or the airport in Perpignan.

Tour date:  You pick the date -- 15 days/14 nights.
Tour Leaders:  Gerhard Meng & assistant
Tour price:  $4,255 per person based on a group of 14 to 16 people. 
In order to offer the lowest possible price, the trips are priced according to the number of participants on the tour.  The cost will be lower with more people in the group, and the cost will increase if there are fewer people.  Price can also be reduced if you wish fewer meals or other services included.  The standard of hotels you choose will also change the price. 
Price was last up-dated on November 11, 2009.  Subject to change.

Includes all breakfasts and thirteen dinners.

What else is included in the tour price? 

On most days we’ll have three cycling options with average distances of 36, 42 and 65 miles.  Shortcuts will be available and every day we’ll also have the option of longer and more challenging bike rides. 

Good quality bike rentals can be arranged at approximately $26 per day. All frames are “hybrid” style with upright handlebars and have a choice of men’s or women’s frame. Designed in France, they are equipped with Shimano components. All have 27 gears and come equipped with a water bottle, bell, lock, pump, handlebar pack, rear rack and patch kit.

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