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It is an understatement to say that biking the
Pyrenees is a cyclist’s dream. These mountains, which traverse
the 400 kilometer distance between the Atlantic and the
Mediterranean in the south of France and north of Spain invite,
or rather demand exploration by bike. The Pyrenees
present a diversity of landscape unequaled in Europe - lush
meadows, peaks crowned with permanent ice or draped in velvety
green, thick forests, and hidden valleys at the foot of sheer
sun-baked cliffs. The Pyrenees’ history of human habitation
goes back thousands of years before it was ever recorded, and in
our travels we will encounter prehistoric caves with their
well-preserved cave drawings, not to mention countless castles
and their rich history of warfare. We will also interact with
a fascinating variety of cultures, dialects and traditions, and
FOOD. Our routes will be for the most part on the smallest and
least traveled roads, taking us to incredible sights (and
heights!) off the beaten path.
 These mountains, generally rounded and crumbling,
are more of a seductive challenge than an intimidating one, and
their peaks and passes are attainable to cyclists of decent
experience and fitness. However, in keeping with our tradition
of spirited cycle tours, and to maximize our coverage of this
spectacular region, tour designer, Glenn Erickson, promises the
option of just about every climb and awesome descent ever
challenged by the Tour de France. |
