The Pyrenees are famous as a road cycling destination, mostly because they feature in the Tour de France.

Whether you want to challenge yourself on the local classic climbs or spend an afternoon in the saddle enjoying the beautiful scenery in the foothills, the choice is yours.

If climbing is your thing, there seems to be a Col around every corner in the region. We are lucky enough to have no less than four local ones; Col de Portet d’Aspet (1069m), Col des Ares (797m), Col de Larrieu (704m), Col de Menté (1349m). All of which are regularly part of the Tour de France route.

Further afield are some of the bigger climbs; Col du Tourmalet (2115m), Col de Peyresourde (1569m) and the climb to Superbagneres Ski Station (1800m).

If you don’t have ambitions to be ‘King or Queen of the hill’ on your road bike, then there are plenty of routes on less steep roads that will allow you to cycle between some of the quaint villages and small towns in the area. Don’t forget to stop for a coffee and a slice of cake as reward for your efforts.

The roads are generally quiet, very well maintained and a pleasure to ride on, with most motorists being quite considerate.