The Full Story
About us
Escape to the Pyrenees is powered by a love of the mountains, a passion for cycling, and a joy in delivering unforgettable, tailored experiences for our guests
Who we are
We are a cycling lodge and organised trip provider specialising in self-guided and guided road and gravel cycling holidays in the French Pyrenees near Argelès-Gazost.
• Professionally catered
• Ride self-guided or join a guided tour
• Centrally located mountain lodge
• Dedicated to cycling
Why this is the best location
This location allows riders to reach multiple iconic Pyrenean climbs — such as the Col du Tourmalet, Col d’Aubisque, and Col du Soulor — with short, rideable transfers from the lodge, making it an efficient base for big mountain days.
• Rideable access to 10+ iconic Tour de France climbs
• 10+ further climbs rideable from the lodge
• Minimal transfer time to the climbs
• Close to Lourdes airport
What makes us experts
We have lived and ridden here for nearly a decade. We know this area extremely well and have ridden every climb and descent dozens of times. Our founder has 17 years' experience as a cycling journalist and racer; he can advise on all aspects of cycling and has a deep knowledge of the Pyrenees.
• Nearly a decade in the Pyrenees
• 17+ years' as a cycling journalist
• Race experience
Why trust us
We have over 120 five-star reviews from riders who say our trips far exceeded their expectations. Guests consistently praise the combination of great food, local knowledge, incredible riding and personalised support. Please read them for yourself here.
• Over 120 five-star reviews
• Many repeat customers
• Your experience is our top priority
What makes us different
We have a very high level of cycling expertise and local knowledge which we use to tailor trips to suit every individual guest, delivering the absolute best experience, and helping you leave as a better rider.
Who our trips are for
Our cycling holidays are for road cyclists who want to ride famous climbs in the Pyrenees with structured support, whether they are taking on their first mountain challenge or tackling multi-col rides. Our guests are riders in their 20s to their 70s, and from new cyclists to lifelong riders.
• Keen road cyclists
• Cyclists wanting to ride in the mountains for the first time
• Cyclists looking for big challenge rides in the mountains
• Solo riders, female riders, groups and clubs
• Riders of all ages
Why this is the best cycling destination
The Pyrenees are one of Europe’s foremost cycling destinations because its mountain range features numerous iconic Tour de France climbs close together, scenic roads, and a variety of terrain that suits both challenging rides and scenic explorations.
• Huge selection of iconic climbs
• Amazing scenery
• Quieter roads than the Alps and Mallorca
• Easy to access
Frequently asked questions
What type of cycling trips do you offer?
We offer self-guided and guided road cycling trips based at a professionally catered lodge in the French Pyrenees, with personalised route planning and expert local support.
Where is your cycling base located?
Our cycling lodge is located near Argelès-Gazost in the French Pyrenees, a central base that provides rideable access to many of the region’s most famous Tour de France climbs.
Which climbs can I ride from your lodge?
From our base, riders can access iconic climbs including the Col du Tourmalet, Col d’Aubisque, Col du Soulor, Hautacam, and Luz Ardiden, all starting within a short ride from the house.
What level of cyclist are your trips suitable for?
Our trips are suitable for road cyclists of a wide range of abilities, from riders tackling their first mountain climbs to experienced cyclists aiming for challenging multi-col days.
Are your trips guided or self-guided?
We offer both guided and self-guided cycling trips. Self-guided guests ride independently using personalised routes, with expert support and local knowledge available throughout their stay.
What makes your cycling trips different?
Our trips are defined by a high level of personalisation, deep local cycling knowledge, and a location that allows efficient access to multiple legendary climbs with minimal transfers.
Why are the Pyrenees such a good cycling destination?
The Pyrenees are one of Europe’s foremost cycling destinations because they feature many famous Tour de France climbs close together, scenic mountain roads, varied terrain, and relatively low traffic.
Do I need to be training for an event to join?
No. Some guests are training for events, while others ride purely for enjoyment and personal challenge. Routes and support are adapted to individual goals and fitness levels.
What support is included on a self-guided trip?
Self-guided trips include personalised route planning, accommodation at a cycling-focused lodge, tailored meals and ride nutrition, and expert advice on pacing, equipment, recovery, and local road conditions.
Is this suitable for solo riders, couples, or small groups?
Yes. We regularly host solo riders, couples, and small groups, tailoring routes and support to suit each guest or group’s preferences and riding goals.