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Overview
The Tour de France 2024 route through the Pyrenees will begin in Toulouse and cover the central to eastern Pyrenees, providing an ideal opportunity to explore the region's rich and stunning beauty. The program features climbing the most famous passes in the massif, including Tourmalet, Aspin, Peyresourde, Port de Bales, Menté, Portet d'Aspet and the famous Col de Pailheres.
You will also have the privilege of experiencing the heart of the Tour de France, with VIP access that allows you to cross the finish line before the pros, watch a stage finish with a glass of champagne in hand from a privileged area, or chat with former pro riders. Throughout your stay, your group of no more than a dozen people will be accompanied by several of our guides, who will always be available to accompany you on the bike, in the VIP areas, or to share convivial moments.
The Tour de France is a cycling race that was first held in 1903 and is now considered the world's third biggest sporting event. This race is held over a period of 3 weeks in July and attracts the best cyclists from around the globe. The race consists of 20 to 22 teams, each with 9 racers, who wind their way across France, occasionally crossing into neighbouring countries, during the twenty or so stages that make up the event, covering a total distance of approximately 3,500km. The race is attended by 12 million spectators of all ages who line the route to cheer on the cyclists and join in the fun with the famous Publicity Caravan. Additionally, 3.5 billion viewers from 190 countries will tune in to follow the cyclists' adventures.
Itinerary
Day 1 Toulouse Pyrenees
Embark on our Pyrenees and Tour de France 2024 journey commencing at Toulouse airport or train station in the early afternoon. Upon arrival, we'll warmly welcome the group and embark on a 2-hour transfer to our hotel in Loudenvielle, nestled in the heart of the Pyrenees. This picturesque village serves as the perfect base for exploring the region's legendary passes.
Following a brief orientation and bike fitting, you can explore the village on foot or set out on bike adventures from the hotel. In the evening, join us for a delightful dinner (no drinks) at the hotel restaurant, where we'll raise a toast to the beginning of this exceptional adventure.
Overnight stay in Loudenvielle at Hotel Mercure Peyragudes Loudenvielle or similar.
Day 2 Loudenvielle Col de Peyresourde & Bales Loudenvielle
Begin your first day in the Pyrenees with a picturesque cycling loop featuring the Col de Peyresourde (1569m - 5147 feet), Bagnères de Luchon, and Port de Balès (1755m - 5758 feet). The journey kicks off with a 10 km (6.2mi) ascent from Peyresourde, offering breathtaking views of the wild Pyrenean landscapes. Descend to Bagnères de Luchon, a charming spa village typical of the Pyrenees, before traversing the valley to reach the 18 km-long (11mi) Port de Balès. Conclude the route by climbing the Col de Peyresourde from the other side, arriving back in Loudenvielle.
Return to the hotel to catch the thrilling finish of the day's stage in Villeneuve sur Lot on television, likely to culminate in a sprint. Explore Loudenvielle's restaurants in the evening and enjoy a delightful at leisure.
Overnight stay in Loudenvielle at Hotel Mercure Peyragudes Loudenvielle or similar.
Day 3 Loudenvielle Aspin & Tourmalet Loudenvielle
Following a hearty breakfast, brace yourself for an exhilarating day of cycling featuring the ascent of two iconic cols: Col d'Aspin (1489m - 4885 feet) and Col du Tourmalet (2115m - 6939 feet).
Depart directly from the hotel, starting with the ascent of the first pass, Col d'Azet (1580m - 5184 feet). Roll through the picturesque Aure valley to reach the base of Col d'Aspin, where a scenic road winds through Pyrenean pastures, offering breathtaking views and encounters with freely roaming farm animals. Transition to Sainte Marie de Campan and ascend the renowned Col du Tourmalet, a challenge feared by all Tour de France racers. The Tourmalet will be tackled from the opposite side by the Tour de France peloton the following day.
Return to the hotel by van to relax in the late afternoon and catch the day's stage in Pau on television.
Overnight stay in Loudenvielle at Hotel Mercure Peyragudes Loudenvielle or similar.
Day 4 Loudenvielle Pla d'Adet Loudenvielle
On this extraordinary day, you will get a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to live a dream experience like a Tour de France rider. You will have the chance to cross the finish line and stand on the podium just a few hours before the professionals. It will be an unforgettable experience!
You will start the day with a hearty breakfast, and then your guide will take you to the final 30 kilometers of the Tour de France course. You will ride the last few kilometers and live your dream of crossing the finish line of the Tour de France just moments before the professional cyclists. For this special occasion, the roads will be closed, and you will be escorted by an official vehicle. You will be cheered on by hundreds of Tour de France fans, so don't forget to bring your camera.
After crossing the finish line, you can then cheer on the pros from the backstage of the world's largest cycling event. You will then head to the podium day in Saint Lary Soulan, where you will tackle the last 40 kilometers of the day's stage by climbing up to Pla d'Adet, a picturesque ski resort in the Pyrenees. Once you reach the top, you will cross the finish line and stand proudly on the TDF podium to capture this unforgettable moment.
You will then head to the VIP finish area of Saint Lary Soulan, where you can watch the professional peloton arrive in VIP style, with a glass of champagne in hand. From this area, you will have an exceptional view over the end of the stage, and all the comforts you need to wait for the pros to arrive, including drinks and hors d'oeuvres. Our team will be at your entire disposal, taking care of everything you need. With live broadcasting of the race on plasma screens, you can follow the stage's progress and the arrival.
Overnight stay in Loudenvielle at Hotel Mercure Peyragudes Loudenvielle or similar.
Day 5 Loudenvielle Col de Mente Portet d'Aspet Relais-Etape Couiza
Embrace the spirit of Tour de France cyclists as you venture into the lesser-known Ariege Pyrenees, a region boasting numerous advantages for cyclists, including wildlife, scenic small roads, and exceptional views.
In the morning, a van transfer will bring you to St Béat before tracing the Tour de France route ahead of the peloton to St Girons. Ascend the magnificent Col de Menté (1349m - 4426 feet) and Portet d'Aspet (1069m - 3507 feet), soaking in the atmosphere and breathtaking scenery. Descend to Saint Girons and relish exclusive VIP access to the Relais Etape, positioned in the heart of the day's stage. Here, follow the race on a large screen, savour a delightful lunch with the group, and soak in the festive atmosphere.
After the riders pass through, journey back to your next hotel in Couiza, a quintessential village in southwest France.
Overnight stay in Couiza at Chateau des Ducs de Joyeuse or similar.
Day 6 Couiza Col de Pailheres Couiza
On your final day of cycling, a delightful loop awaits you on the narrow and untamed roads of the Eastern Pyrenees. Traverse the stunning Gorges du Rebenty to reach the day's initial pass, Col du Pradel (1673m - 5488 feet), followed by the ascent of Col de Pailheres (2001m - 6565 feet) with its winding turns and breathtaking vistas.
The concluding leg of the journey is predominantly downhill as you trace the scenic Gorges de l'Aude. This charming road nestled between two cliffs is truly splendid, so relish this moment of joy. Upon returning to the hotel, savour your last evening with our guides and the group, sharing anecdotes from the trip and enjoying a delightful moment together.
Overnight stay in Couiza at Chateau des Ducs de Joyeuse or similar.
Day 7 Couiza Toulouse
It's departure day, so make the most of the last few moments with the group and return home with your head full of memories. Your guides will transfer you to Toulouse in the morning.
Accommodation
Hotel Mercure Peyragudes Loudenvielle
Loudenvielle
The Mercure Peyragudes Loudenvielle Pyrénées is located in the village of Loudenvielle, in the heart of the Louron Valley just minutes from Lake Génos, and opposite the Skyvall cable cars. It combines charm and conviviality in harmony with the architectural spirit of the Louron. An ideal location for mountain lovers at any time of theyear.
Chateau des Ducs de Joyeuse
Couiza
Explore France's history at Château des Ducs de Joyeuse for a unique experience! The castle, resonating with the valiant spirit of the Joyeuse family and their lavish parties spanning five centuries, is a captivating destination. The scenic route to the Aude's upper valley holds surprises for history enthusiasts. Upon reaching Couiza, be enthralled by the unfolding spectacle.
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