The World's Greatest Bike Race
Join Backroads in the French and Spanish Pyrénées to experience the passion, glory and heart-pumping action of the world's greatest bicycle race. Ride hand-picked sections of classic stages only hours ahead of the pros, testing your legs on burley climbs, such as Col du Tourmalet. Then watch from the sidelines while your favorite heroes of the road challenge themselves against terrain that has become legendary among cycling fans. Following days of unbelievable biking through some of France and Spain's most glorious scenery, unwind in comfortable, perfectly located hotels. Topping off the experience are the unparalleled leadership, support and camaraderie for which Backroads is known. No matter how fast you pedal, you'll definitely feel like a winner on this trip. Allez! Allez!
Days 1-2 Vielha, Spain
Meet in Lourdes 
Shuttle to our hotel in the Catalan Pyrénées of Spain After a welcome lunch, set out on a warm-up ride that introduces you to the region's gorgeous mountain terrain As the pros face three legendary summits, you tackle Col de Portillon to reach Bagnères-de-Luchon in time to watch the racers hammer across the stage finish line Or, if you feel strong, test your legs up Port de Balès and find a prime viewing spot along the way to catch the action.
Days 3-6 Lourdes, France
Pedal the official race route over 5,148-foot Col de Peyresourde, an eight-mile climb with an average grade of seven percent 
If you crave mountain passes, Col d'Aspin and Col d'Aubisque (which recently challenged the peleton) are yours for the taking Immerse yourself in the jubilant atmosphere as the publicity caravan passes and the professionals push toward the exciting Col du Tourmalet finish Explore the town of Lourdes or savor one last spin on small country roads through quaint villages of the Pyrénées foothills.
Comfortable Retreats: Casual Inns
Parador de Vielha (2 nights): Set in the beautiful Aran Valley, our first hotel features spacious guest rooms, an outdoor swimming pool and panoramic views of the Pyrénées.
Hotel Eliseo (3 nights): Enjoy mountain vistas from the terrace or solarium of this modern four-star hotel, done in warm tones and rich colors.
Daily Mileage Options & Cumulative Elevation Gain
Day 1
- Level 1 1 Route Option Available
- 15 - 20 miles
- 985 feet elevation gain
Day 2
- Levels 3 to 5 2 Route Options Available
- 37, 75 miles
- 1,915 - 8,630 feet elevation gain
Day 3
- Levels 2 to 5 3 Route Options Available
- 30, 50 100 miles
- 4,280 - 11,140 feet elevation gain
Day 4
- Levels 4 to 5 2 Route Options Available
- 55, 62 miles
- 3,770 - 4,540 feet elevation gain
Day 5
- Levels 2 to 5 2 Route Options Available
- 30, 60 miles
- 5,630 feet elevation gain
Day 6
- Level 1 1 Route Available
- 17 miles
- 640 feet elevation gain
Due to the high altitude and mountainous terrain, the routes on this trip may feel more challenging than the mileage alone suggests.
Routes For All Abilities
Every Backroads trip is designed to appeal to a wide variety of interests and fitness levels. We know your pace may vary from one day to the next-and your traveling companion's may differ somewhat from yours. So we present a range of mileage options, and each day you decide exactly what and how much you want to do.
| Activity Level | Average Time | Biking Average | Walking Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | 2-3 hours | 10-20 mile | 2-5 miles |
| Level 2 | 2-4 hours | 21-30 miles | 5-7 miles |
| Level 3 | 3-5 hours | 31-40 miles | 7-9 miles |
| Level 4 | 4-6 hours | 41-55 miles | 9-11 miles |
| Level 5 | 5-7+ hours | 56-75+ miles | 11-13+ miles |
2010 DATES
CLASSIC TRIPS
Guest Trip Reviews
Phenomenal. Some of the hardest miles I've ever ridden on a bike, given the terrain, but I was ready to do it all over again by the time we were packing up to go home. In fact, a few of us were already talking about where we might meet up next year. Perhaps the French Alps? Gotta climb those hills!- Verona, NJ