Tour de France
This year too, the tour caravan will pass through the Pyrenees. Stage 17 is scheduled on 20 July. The start will be in Saint-Gaudens, less than 9 kilometres from La Maison du Bonheur. This stage (130km) contains quite a few climbs. After traversing the Col d'Aspin (12km, 6.5%) and the Hourquette d'Ancizan (8.2km, 5.1%), the attacks could come as early as the ascent of the Col du Val Louron-Azet (10.7km, 6.8%). And in the finale, even the best climbers may struggle on the steep slopes to the altiport Peyragudes (airport 8km, 7.8%).
In other words, another great day with plenty of spectacle.
Looking forward to a challenge?
Then come cycle in the French Pyrenees and discover the legendary routes by bike! Every year the pros pass through here during the Tour de France, but the Pyrenees has something for every cyclist.
Those looking for a real challenge soon end up on the Col du Tourmalet, as this iconic mountain pass from the Tour de France is world-famous. A whopping 2115 metres high, this mountain offers spectacular views over the Gripp and Bastan valleys while cycling. Located at the foot of the Pic du Midi de Bigorre (2877 metres high), the pass is a landmark in the Pyrenees.
Once you reach the top and still have energy left, you can take the cable car to the planetarium and observatory at the top of the mountain.
Mountain bikers
There is also plenty of challenge for mountain bikers in the Pyrenees. In winter with a Fatbike downhill, or in summer with the ATB. Luchon is a French spa town less than 30 kilometres from La Maison du Bonheur. Located at the head of two valleys, a stone's throw from the Spanish border and surrounded by 3000m high mountains, Luchon makes the most of its 1200m vertical drop. You go up by ski lift to then cycle back 1200m with single-trails in a natural setting to Luchon.