Europe’s mountain ranges offer some of the finest cycling terrain in the world, and while the towering Alps often steal the spotlight, the Pyrenees—spanning the border between France and Spain—boast equally breathtaking routes and a wealth of cycling history. Among the standout experiences is the Pyrenean Traverse, an immersive 12-day tour across the Spanish side of the range, organized by leading adventure cycling company Saddle Skedaddle.
Covering roughly 100 kilometers and 2,000 meters of climbing each riding day, the route charts a course from the Atlantic coast to the Mediterranean. It offers a unique alternative to the famed French Raid Pyrénéen, tracing lesser-known paths through quiet mountain villages, iconic cycling climbs, and remote landscapes.
The route not only mirrors key segments from cycling’s grand tours—Le Tour de France and La Vuelta a España—but also includes stages from the annual Quebrantahuesos Challenge, one of Europe’s largest sportives. While the sportive tackles the course in one go, the Traverse eases riders through it over two challenging yet rewarding days.
Though demanding—rated four stars for physical difficulty—the Pyrenean Traverse is fully supported. Riders benefit from professional assistance and logistical support throughout, allowing them to focus on the ride itself. The journey spans a variety of landscapes, from the fiery spirit of the Basque Country to the tranquil waters of Banyoles.
Key Highlights of the Traverse:
Col de Marie-Blanque
Despite its modest length, the Col de Marie-Blanque is considered one of the route’s toughest segments. The western ascent stretches just under 10 kilometers, beginning gently along the Asp Valley. However, the final four kilometers surge in difficulty, with gradients exceeding 10%. This punishing section has earned its place in professional racing history, having appeared 15 times in the Tour de France and once in the Vuelta. Notably, during the 2023 Tour, Australian cyclist Jai Hindley launched a decisive attack here, claiming the stage win and the yellow jersey.
Puerto de Portalet
Spanning nearly 30 kilometers, the Puerto de Portalet climbs to 1,794 meters with a steady average gradient of 4.5%. Its gentle incline is somewhat misleading, as a flat section conceals the true challenge. The lower slopes offer shade beneath trees and pass through avalanche tunnels before revealing panoramic alpine vistas. The climb is a cornerstone of the Quebrantahuesos Challenge and a regular fixture in the Vuelta. In 2023, Romain Bardet crested the Portalet first, though only the final 4.4 kilometers were included in a dramatic stage featuring the Col d’Aubisque and ending atop the Tourmalet, where Jonas Vingegaard led a dominant Jumbo-Visma finish.
Coll de Josa
Featured on day nine of the Traverse, the Coll de Josa may seem modest at 11.2 kilometers with a 4.6% average gradient, but it is a deceptively demanding climb. A downhill section masks its true difficulty, while the penultimate kilometer ramps up to 9%. Although it has never been included in the Tour or Vuelta, the climb’s scenic route through the Serra de Cadí, culminating with views of the iconic Pedraforca mountain, makes it a highlight of the tour.
Banyoles
The journey concludes near the Lake of Banyoles, a serene and refreshing destination with no further climbs—only well-deserved rest. The lake, believed to have formed 250,000 years ago, is an ecological treasure and a popular venue for international water sports. Its distinctive fisherman’s houses, which appear to float on the lake’s surface, contribute to its unique charm. After over 1,200 meters of climbing on the final day, this Catalonian haven offers weary cyclists a peaceful and picturesque end to their adventure.
Conclusion
The Pyrenean Traverse is more than a cycling tour—it’s a physically demanding yet richly rewarding journey through some of Europe’s most storied and scenic terrain. Blending world-class climbs, cultural immersion, and natural beauty, it stands as a compelling alternative for those seeking to experience the Pyrenees beyond the beaten path.
