Creating a natural border between Spain and France, the Pyrenees mountain range has been a destination for avid cyclists for years. Despite being smaller and drier than the Alps to the north, the Pyrenees have had their success as a long standing, and integral, part of the storied Tour de France. With this much pedigree you can bet that the Pyrenees has a big payout for those who chose to cycle here.

Although the mountain range is the same, there are some significant differences in the Spanish side of the Pyrenees from that of the French side. As the mountains sharply rise in France, they casually roll on out in Spain, with hundreds of kilometers of rolling foothills and sub-ranges. This make the Spanish Pyrenees more accessible for all levels of rider; the more keen can challenge some of the well-traveled climbs, while recreational riders can cruise the sights in the foothills. Many tour operators will blend the two experiences with van support for the gruelling climbs, making it easier to experience the full extent of the mountains. Both the parks of Ordesa y Monte Perdido and Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici feature endless mountain bike trails and pathways that wind their way through alpine meadows, epic waterfalls, and picturesque river valleys, making them a must visit for any cyclist.

Unlike in France, the Spanish Pyrenees are further away from major centers and large populations, so most find themselves staying in one of the resort towns like La Molina and Masella, or they stay in places like Figueres and Girona and commute to the mountains. Although the Pyrenees are traditionally warmer and drier than the Alps, they still have a mountain climate, so even in the dead of summer you will want to travel with warm clothing and weatherproof gear. Once you’ve had enough of the high alpine riding, you can easily make your way to the Costa Brava along the Mediterranean, or to the interior plateau for some warmer weather.