Our 2026 Pyrenees Tour Itinerary.
22 - 29 August 2026
Day 1 - Saturday.
Welcome to the Pyrenees!
Upon arrival at our Chateau, La grange de l’Adour, you'll be greeted with a glass of Pousse Rapière, a local orange Armagnac with local champagne, and introduced to your friendly hosts and tour guides, Andre and John, who will ensure your stay is both comfortable and memorable.
Our Chateau is a beautifully restored barn in the Adour Valley, at the foot of the Pyrenees.
Settle into your room, explore the stunning chateau, and enjoy some relaxation time by the pool. Cyclists can take this opportunity to set up their bikes, while others can simply soak in the mountain views.
Day 2 - Sunday.
Food Group:
Morning: Begin the day in Roquelaure with a special tasting session of Armagnac, Pousse Rapière, Flocs, and local wines, hosted by the mayor in the village where Andre grew up.
Lunch: Enjoy a traditional farm-to-table lunch near Auch, featuring foie gras, smoked duck, cassoulet, and Croustade (local Armagnac apple tart).
Afternoon: Explore the historic town of Auch, visiting its cultural sites and the Musée of D'Artagnan.
Cycling Group:
Enjoy a 60km ride through the beautiful Lourdes foothills. A fantastic route with a mix of quaint villages, rural French living and a cruise through central Lourdes.
We’ll be sure to make a Coffee stop as we pass through Bartrès, renowned for its connection to Saint Bernadette.
Conquer the short but challenging climbs of Côte de Bartrès and Col du Lingous, and enjoy the villages of Omex and Juncalas.
Day 3 - Monday.
Food Group:
Morning: We’ll begin the day with an unforgettable ascent to the Pic du Midi, one of the most iconic viewpoints in the Pyrenees. After a scenic cable-car ride, take time to explore the observatory terraces, where sweeping 360-degree views stretch from the rugged Pyrenean peaks to the distant plains.
Lunch: At the summit of the legendary Col du Tourmalet we’ll have a quick bite to eat at the famous high-altitude restaurant. This historic location has welcomed heads of state and global leaders, and is now plastered with cycling memorabilia.
Afternoon: Explore the Grottes de Bétharram, a spectacular underground world of vast caverns, stalactites, and subterranean rivers. This is one of the most impressive cave systems in the Pyrenees.
Cycling Group:
Take on the epic 100km loop, highlighted by the Col du Tourmalet, the Tour de France's most used climbs and one of the most spectacular.
We’ll make our way up from the East. The eastern climb of the Col du Tourmalet, starting from Sainte-Marie-de-Campan, is approximately 17km long, gaining about 1270 meters in elevation, with an average gradient of around 7.4%, featuring sections up to 11-12%
With the Food group in the same area we’ll likely cross paths either on the climb or at the top while savouring the spectacular view and having a picture with the Giant of the Tourmalet statue.
After conquering this historic peak, we’ll enjoy a thrilling descent into Luz-Saint-Sauveur and then through a spectacular gorge into Argeles-Gazost before completing our loop back to the Chateau.
The Tourmalet climb has tested legends and offers incredible mountain views, making it a must-ride for cycling enthusiasts.
Day 4 - Tuesday.
Food Group:
Morning: Visit the lively Argeles-Gazost market to gather fresh ingredients for today’s hands-on cooking class and Wednesday's picnic at Lac de Gaube.
Mid-Morning: Stop in Bagnères-de-Bigorre at a renowned butcher to pick up premium meats for a French feast.
Afternoon: Participate in a cooking class led by Andre, preparing regional dishes from the market’s bounty.
Evening: Savor the meal you’ve created, paired with local wines.
Cycling Group:
After the big ride (and climb) yesterday, we enjoy a flatter yet entertaining day.
We’ll ride towards Lourdes by road, before taking the Voie Verte des Gaves (a converted railway line route from Lourdes to Pierrefitte-Nestalas) to Argelès-Gazost. Here we’ll meet up with the food group to tour the market before making our way back to the Chateau.
After a total of approx. 70-80km, riders that are interested are welcome to join Andre’s cooking class or simply relax at the Chateau. (Option available to drive home with food group after the market visit)
Day 5 - Wednesday.
Food Group:
Start with a relaxed morning at the chalet before heading to Cauterets to taste local specialties, including the famous blueberry muffin and coffee.
Travel to Pont d'Espagne for a chairlift ride with the cyclists up to Lac de Gaube.
Enjoy a gourmet picnic prepared by Andre, set against stunning mountain views.
End the day at Les Bains du Rocher spa, where you can relax and rejuvenate while soaking in the breathtaking vistas of the surrounding Pyrenees mountains.
Cycling Group:
Begin your ride with a scenic 70km route to Pont d'Espagne, climbing over 1,600 meters through lush forests and alpine landscapes.
Experience breathtaking views as you ascend through hairpin turns and cross rustic stone bridges.
Meet the food group for a picnic at Lac de Gaube and a relaxing spa session.
After the spa, enjoy an exhilarating descent into Argeles-Gazost before returning to the chalet via the outskirts of Lourdes. (Option available to drive home with food group after the spa visit)
Day 6 - Thursday.
Food Group:
Morning: Oysters & Champagne - Begin the journey on the Atlantic coast in Biarritz, where refined coastal living meets Basque tradition. Enjoy a leisurely seaside breakfast featuring freshly shucked oysters paired with crisp Champagne.
Lunch: Visit the iconic town of Espelette, renowned for its Piment d'Espelette powder (red piment spice). Here, you’ll enjoy a lunch featuring local products that highlight the flavors of the Basque region, especially dishes infused with the famous Espelette pepper.
Afternoon: Explore the historic town of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port with a visit to its impressive fortress. This medieval town, once a key stop for pilgrims on the Way of St. James, offers a fascinating glimpse into the history and culture of the Basque Region.
This day combines culinary exploration with cultural immersion, offering both a hands-on pastry experience and the beauty of the Basque landscape.
Cycling Group:
On the final day of cycling, we’ll conquer two amazing ascents.
First, the Col d'Aspin, a 12 km climb with a 6.5% gradient that offers breathtaking views of the valleys below. This iconic Tour de France climb is a rewarding challenge for any cyclist. At roughly the halfway mark we’ll make a slight detour to experience the stunning Lac de Payolle, before continuing up the climb.
Next, we’ll tackle the Hourquette d'Ancizan, a 10 km ascent with a 7.5% gradient, steeper and more secluded. Its wild beauty and panoramic mountain views make it a truly unforgettable climb.
This challenging yet stunning day on the bike is the perfect conclusion to your cycling adventure in the Pyrenees
Day 7 - Friday.
Food & Cycling Group:
"Wine & Culinary Mastery in Saint-Mont: Blending, Tasting, and a Celebratory Farewell”
Morning: Visit the Cave of Château de Sabazan for an in-depth wine tasting session. Explore the rich history of this vineyard and enjoy a guided tour through the cellars, where you'll sample some of the finest wines from the region.
Lunch: Savor an exquisite four-course lunch at the Château de Plaimont, featuring local delicacies paired with perfectly selected wines. The breathtaking scenery of the chateau and the surrounding vineyards will enhance the overall dining experience.
Afternoon: Participate in a wine blending masterclass at Château Vigeron, where you’ll learn the art of blending wines. Under the guidance of an expert winemaker, you will create your own unique bottle of wine to take home as a memorable souvenir.
Evening: Conclude the day with a celebratory dinner prepared by Liz. This final meal will be a delightful end to a week of culinary and cultural experiences, shared with new friends in a relaxed and festive atmosphere.
This day focuses on deepening your appreciation for French wines and cuisine, offering both educational and sensory delights.
Cycling Group:
On the final day of the tour it is recommended for the cycling group to join the food group at the winery.
For any cyclists who would prefer another day of riding, a number of route options can be provided by John (who will be more than happy to have another day of riding!!).
Day 8 - Saturday.
Morning:
Enjoy a leisurely morning, packing your belongings and reflecting on the week’s adventures.
Departure:
After breakfast, say our goodbyes and depart at your convenience, bringing home unforgettable memories of your French culinary and cycling journey. Safe travels!