Aubisque Bikes
Adventures On A Road Bike: Explore the Pyrenees
30th May 2022
Stage 17 2022 TDF
TDF 2022
1st September 2022

A typical cycling package with Allons-y-Pyrenees does as the name suggests… we go out and cycle in the Pyrenees. With over 15 easily accessible cols from our base, and many more if you fancy the challenge of a mini tour as part of your stay, there are more cols to go at than a typical week’s holiday allows. But what if your legs aren’t up to these challenging rides every day, or what if you want to tick a few cols off the list and then explore other parts of our region that most people don’t know about? Well then, this just might be the place for you!

The Baronnies, in the heart of the Hautes-Pyrenees, are a wild, often untouched area of lush countryside and rolling hills. Ancient villages nestle in the valley bottoms among vast forests and beautiful limestone cliffs; the roads are quiet and winding. Away from the high cols, cycling doesn’t get much better than this.

To cycle here is to enter a secret world inhabited since prehistoric times, a place of chasms and caves, of mystery and legend, with castles rising from the landscape to protect and watch over the lands. The Baronnies are situated slightly back from the main mountain range and the views back into the mountains are both exceptional and frequent. Ride to the top of some of the cols or up to the sites of the oldest castles and you will be astounded by the 360 degree views.

 

Top 5

Our Favourite Rides in the Baronnies


  • Mauvezin

Gaston Phebus, was one of the most important figures of the Middle Ages, Count of Foix and Viscount of Bearn, warrior prince, hunter, and the architect of the magnificent Chateau de Mauvezin, which he transformed into an impenetrable fortress – it’s strategic position is obvious as soon as you arrive, and the views are stunning.

  • Escaladieu Abbey

On the edge of the forest a bell tower appears, it announces the discrete presence of the Escaladieu abbey. It was founded in 1140 by Cistercian monks, the building is in perfect harmony with the beliefs of the order: simple and sober. The gardens with their century old trees are peaceful and pleasant, the ride to the abbey and back, spectacular.

  • The Esponne valley

While only 12 kilometres in length, this secret valley is an absolute sanctuary of nature.

  • Payolle and Campan

Lakes, mountains, street museums of mounaques… And the Auberge des Trois Pics "Chez Germaine", a typical mountain auberge, no frills, and famous for its grills over an oak fire, its garbure and its myrtille tart.

  • Col des Palomieres

Another 360 view, and perhaps our favourite. And after taking in the view, head to the ancient mountain auberge. The Refuge des Chasseurs at the Col des Palomieres, should be a priority for any rider venturing in this direction. One bit of advice though, make sure you are hungry as Loulou is very serious about quality and quantity.

 
 

If it’s variety you’re after, along with beautiful accommodation, post-ride chilling by the pool watching the glow of the evening mountains, excellent locally-sourced, home-cooked food, and the care and dedication of our team, then get in touch today. And if you can make it out here this Autumn, we have some amazing offers for you...

 

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Share Follow Tweet