Short description
A GRAND COL MOUNTAIN ADVENTURE
Last year Viva Velo has partnered with its long time friend and associate, Dean Thompson to offer its clients the opportunity of riding some of the most famous Cols in The Pyrenees. Dean, who moved to France from the UK three years ago, is based in the small village of Bertren a few pedal strokes down the valley from Bagnères-de-Luchon famed as a destination for many a Tour de France. Based right in the heart of some of the most stunning mountain scenery Dean, who very much shares the Viva Velo ‘run by cyclists, for cyclists’ philosophy offers a range of fantastic riding both guided and unguided, organising rides on the basis that you’re with us to enjoy yourself. So whether you’re in the advanced stages of training for a major event, trying out riding in the high mountains for the first time, or after a mix of relaxed riding and longish café stops, our team will put together a trip for you that ticks all the right boxes.
Our Pyrenees base is a restored 19th century French farmhouse dating back to 1877 situated in the superb Barousse valley which is peppered with roads leading off either side towards some of the best climbs in the world. With six bedrooms, five bathrooms, a dining hall, separate guest kitchen/sitting room, TV lounge, free wi-fi access, a tooled bike workshop and generous patio area. It provides you with a stay that combines comfort, practicality and rustic charm in equal measure. The property provides single, twin, double and triple rooms, there is also a self-contained gîte with two bedrooms for a little more seclusion.
The itinerary
From our base in Bertren there is a huge range of riding available from steady ‘tempo’ Category 3-4 hills through to the mythical HC (‘hors category’) climbs which so often feature in the major shake-ups of the Tour de France. The closest of those start within 3 kilometres of the front door; dozens are within easy riding distance and there are around 60 to choose from if you opt for a day or two of vehicle transfers/support from us to help get you to your target climb.
If your priorities are to catch the pros in action, then the Pyrenean stages of the Tour de France should provide another drama-packed backdrop to a great week’s riding.
Key information
- Highlights
- Comfortable accommodation in our 19th century French farmhouse in the Barousse valley
- HALF BOARD – a hearty breakfast and three course dinner
- Fully guided rides or self-guided options for all abilities
- Itineraries specifically tailored to suit you and your group
- Access to a fantastic array of climbs from Cat 3/4 to HC Grand Cols
- Return transfers from an airport of your choice*