The Tour de France is the biggest event on the cycling calendar and the cols of the Pyrenees always feature on the action-packed itinerary. These mountains have long been the battleground for the yellow jersey and the buzz amongst the spectators on TDF day has to be experienced to be believed. If you’re a cycling enthusiast, seeing the event ‘in the flesh’ has to be on your bucketlist. Add to that the opportunity to test yourself on one of the legendary climbs just before the pros come along and show you how it's done.... well, you have the makings of an unforgettable cycling experience right there! 2018 TDF stages in the central Pyrenees This year, stages 16 and 17 of the Tour de France take place in our immediate area. On the 24th July, stage 16 includes the col de Portet d’Aspet, col de Menté and a final flourish up the col du Portillon before what’s sure to be a fast and furious run in to the finish in the pretty spa town of Bagneres-de-Luchon. On the 25th July Luchon is the starting town for a short but pokey stage which takes the riders first up the col de Peyresourde, then down the beautiful Louron valley before another climb up to the col de Val Louron-Azet, a descent to the Arreau valley and a grand finale up the Col du Portet. If you are a cyclist who’s coming down to experience the full Tour de France circus in the Pyrenees this summer then read on for our insider’s tips to help you get the most out of this amazing spectacle. Reccy your viewing spot in advance If you’ve never cycled in the area before you probably won’t know much about the cols that the pros will be tackling. If you ...
The Tour de France is the biggest event on the cycling calendar and the cols of the Pyrenees always feature on the action-packed itinerary. These mountains have long been the battleground for the yellow jersey and the buzz amongst the spectators on TDF day has to be experienced to be believed. If you’re a cycling