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