Summary
Our (Half) Raid Pyrénées tour will start with a two night stay at Zero Neuf before we take you, guided and fully supported, into the high Pyrenees and over some of the most famous climbs in cycling. Heading west, towards the Atlantic, we’ll ride many of the classic Tour de France mountains; you’ll crest the Tourmalet, Aspin, Peyresourde and Portet d’Aspet, amongst others.
You’ll spin along lush river valleys, through picture postcard towns and villages, on largely quiet roads, all seemingly made for cyclists. You’ll be treated to truly incredible views and magical sights, as eagles and vultures soar above you. Your senses will be fully immersed, as we also explore the region’s rich tapestry of gastronomy and culture.
Duty of Care
It’s a challenging ride and should not be underestimated – it involves four days in the high mountains where you’ll be tackling long climbs, some at altitude (ridden at your own pace). Both the scenery and the cycling will be breathtaking! Our advanced tours are for people who ride regularly and enjoy challenging back to back days on the bike
Duration: 6 nights (inc 2 at Zero Neuf)
Distance: 480km
Elevation: 9,280m
Terrain: Road
Difficulty: Advanced
Price per person from:
€2,400
Secure your spot with a 25% deposit
Payment plans available
ITINERARY
(click on arrow for more daily info)
Day One – Zero Neuf (Arrivals)
We’ll meet at our rendezvous points in Toulouse it’s then a short, one hour transfer back to Zero Neuf. We’ll take care of bike builds and for anyone renting, your bike will be waiting for you. There’ll be time to use the pool, jump in the river or simply hang out in the Cowshed bar and garden, before welcome drinks and dinner.
Day Two – Orientation Ride
A short 50km spin to get the legs moving and iron out any last minute bike fit issues. You’ll have plenty of time to chill out prior to tomorrow’s big day!
Day Three – Zero Neuf to Bagneres du Luchon
Distance – 154km
Elevation – 2,250m
After a hearty breakfast and plenty of fresh coffee, we’ll start our journey west. Today’s route takes us south west towards Saint Girons over rolling terrain, with a few short climbs to wake the legs up. We’re pedalling on lovely, quiet roads, punctuated by sleepy villages and the prehistoric cave of Mas d’Azil. From Saint Girons, we’ll head due west, through the beautiful Couserans region, a land of mountains, lakes and forests, towards the first of our week’s TdF climbs; the Col de Portet d’Aspet. From here we’ll make our way further west, to the lovely thermal spa town of Luchon, in the heart of the Pyrenees.
Day Four – Bagneres du Luchon to Luz Saint Saveur
Distance – 93km
Elevation – 3,130m
The route’s biggest climbing day, best to be taken slow and steady. Our guides and support van will be ready and after breakfast, we’ll leave Luchon and start the first of today’s three TdF climbs; the Col de Peyresourde. We’ll regroup at the top and refuel with a plate of delicious crépes, before launching ourselves down the descent, on to the gorgeous town of Arreau. From here we ascend the Col d’Aspin, a magnificent climb with wonderful views and a forgiving gradient. The day’s third and final climb is the big one, the mighty Col de Tourmalet. We climb it from the eastern side, via La Mongie. It’s tough but it gives us a long, fast, sweeping descent into our finish town of Luz Saint Saveur.
Day Five – Luz Saint Saveur to Oloron Sainte Marie
Distance – 109km
Elevation – 2,390m
Today’s route is arguably the most beautiful of all. The Vallee d’Arens, the towering Pic des Taillades, the village of Marsous, they’re all stunning and that’s before you’ve climbed the Col du Soulour, marvelled at the Cirque du Litor and the jagged 3,000m peaks across the valley from the Col d’Abisque. The final climb of the day is the Col de Marie Blanque. Today’s the day to ride with your eyes up and immerse yourself in the majesty of this fabulous region.
Day Six – Oloron Sainte Marie to Saint Jean de Luz
Distance – 120km
Elevation – 1,510m
Our final day on the road, and the day we leave the soaring peaks of the high mountains behind, and make our way to the coast and our end point, the town of St Jean de Luz. We’re in the Pays Basque now, home to the Basque people, their distinctive language, culture and traditions. With its ubiquitous red and white buildings, rolling hills and lush green landscape, it’s a truly beautiful region of France and Spain and the first sighting of the mighty Atlantic ocean is a real treat.
Day Seven – Saint Jean de Luz (Departures)
We’ll take you and your luggage back to Toulouse, for your onward connections.
THE FINER DETAILS
RIDE SUPPORT
With small groups, a policy of one guide to four riders and a support vehicle close by at all times, our experienced team will ensure you’re spending your time soaking up the riding in this wonderful part of the world.
The support van will have food and drinks, tools and spares and your kit will also be accessible, in the event of need. Our guides are on hand to keep you safe, motivated and on route!
This is an adventure, not a race. To ensure everyone can ride at a pace they are comfortable with, we’ll give each of you a copy of the route for use on your bike computer. Our guides will never be far away.
HOTELS
Our hotel and guest house partners have been hand picked by Mike and Joss and they offer comfortable accommodation, great food and wherever possible, pools, hot tubs or saunas. We want to ensure you get an optimum amount of rest and relaxation when you’re off the bike and some time to disconnect.
LOGISTICS
Inbound – Fly / Train to Toulouse
Outbound – Fly / Train from Toulouse
Meeting Point – Toulouse
Meeeting Time – 1500
End Point – The trip ends in St Jean de Luz
WHAT’S INCLUDED
Six nights, full board accommodation (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
On bike support (includes guides and support vehicle)
Accommodation (at Zero Neuf and in either 3 or 4 star hotels)
Transfers from Toulouse to Zero Neuf and from St Jean de Luz to Toulouse
SELF GUIDED
This trip is also available on a self guided basis. We provide the digital route guide and book your half board accommodation on route (including two nights, full board at Zero Neuf). All you need to do is turn up and ride! Hit the button below to get in touch and for more information. Just enter ‘Self Guided Raid’ in the subject bar.
Fully Supported Dates (2025)
June 16th to June 22nd 2025
September 25th to October 1st 2025
FULLY SUPPORTED DATES (2026)
June 17th to June 23rd 2026
September 16th to September 22nd 2026
If these dates don’t work for you, please get in touch and we’ll work on something that suits you better – click on the button below for all of our contact details