Sports in the Pyrenees

In the Hautes-Pyrénées, every kilometre of the ascent is marked with the average gradient, helping cyclists pace their effort and measure their progress with precision.

Thanks to its dedicated infrastructure, private car park, and welcoming restaurant, Hotel Roissy is perfectly equipped to accommodate cycling groups. While cyclists take on the mythical climbs, non-cycling companions can explore the many cultural, spiritual, and tourist attractions Lourdes has to offer.

Come and ride in the footsteps of champions: the famous passes of the Tour de France — such as the Tourmalet, Hautacam, and Luz Ardiden — are just a pedal stroke away from Lourdes.

Every year, the Tour de France winds through this region, celebrating its most iconic Pyrenean stages and crowning the legends of cycling.

📏 Loop distance: 104 km
📈 Elevation gain: +1,956 m

The Col du Tourmalet is the most legendary mountain pass in the Pyrenees, featured numerous times in the history of the Tour de France. It's a must-ride for any passionate cyclist.

There are two main ascent options:

• Via Luz-Saint-Sauveur:
  18.3 km of climbing with an average gradient of 7.7%, and sections reaching 10.2%. The beginning is relatively gentle before becoming more demanding.
• Via Sainte-Marie-de-Campan:
  17.1 km with a 7.4% average gradient, and a maximum pitch of 10.5%. A steady and scenic climb all the way up.

This is the emblematic pass of the Pyrenees. The D918 road is well-maintained and smooth to ride. The scenery is truly breathtaking, especially as you pass near the foot of the Pic du Midi de Bigorre, a majestic landmark overlooking the entire route.

📍 Altitude: 2,208 m
📏 Round trip from Lourdes: 126 km
📈 Elevation gain: +2,046 m

Less famous than the Tourmalet, but equally spectacular, the Col des Tentes is a true gem for cyclists seeking solitude and stunning scenery.

Starting from Luz-Saint-Sauveur, the climb stretches over 30 km with an average gradient of 5%, and peaks at 10.7%. The real challenge begins in Gavarnie, where the final 10 km are steeper and often exposed to headwinds.

The route winds through rugged, rocky landscapes typical of the Gavarnie Valley, running alongside the Gave River. Highlights include a dramatic view of the Pont Napoléon — a picture-perfect spot nestled in the heart of the mountains.

Ideal for riders in search of beauty and challenge off the beaten path.

📍 Altitude: 2,103 m
📏 Route from Lourdes: 122 km
📈 Elevation gain: +1,950 m

The climb to Cirque de Troumouse is one of the most visually rewarding routes in the Pyrenees. From Luz-Saint-Sauveur, the ascent stretches over 28 km, with an average gradient of 5% and sections reaching up to 12%.

While the road surface is of moderate quality, the extraordinary landscapes more than make up for it. The route winds through dramatic scenery, and the final approach into the natural amphitheater of the cirque is truly breathtaking.

This ride is not only a physical challenge but a visual feast, with a strong chance of spotting marmots along the way. A memorable and peaceful escape into high-mountain beauty.

📍 Altitude: 1,709 m
🚴 Option 1 – via Argelès-Gazost and Col du Soulor
🛣️ Round trip: 90 km
📈 Elevation gain: +1,589 m

🚴 Option 2 – via Laruns (loop)
🛣️ Distance: 116 km
📈 Elevation gain: +1,958 m

A legendary climb of the Pyrenees, the Col d’Aubisque links two departments and offers two very different routes.

From Argelès-Gazost, the climb takes you via the beautiful Col du Soulor, with steady gradients and spectacular views.
The route from Laruns forms a longer, more demanding loop that will appeal to experienced cyclists looking for a full-day challenge.

Whichever side you choose, the Aubisque promises unforgettable scenery and a place in the footsteps of cycling’s greatest legends.

In addition to the legendary Tourmalet and Aubisque, the area around Lourdes offers a wide selection of equally stunning climbs:

• Col du Soulor – 1,474 m
• Col d’Aspin – 1,489 m
• Col de Marie-Blanque
• Ascent to Hautacam – 1,520 m
• Ascent to Luz-Ardiden – 1,730 m
• Ascent to Cauterets & Pont d’Espagne
• Climb to Couraduque
• Col des Bordères & Lac d’Estaing
• Col de Spandelles
• Hourquette d’Ancizan

Whether you're a casual climber or a seasoned athlete, these climbs offer incredible variety, breathtaking landscapes, and the chance to ride where legends have raced.

Earn Your Pyrenean Cycling Certificate

Complete a selection of climbs and earn your "Brevet Cycliste des Hautes-Pyrénées" – a bronze, silver, or gold diploma based on the number of passes you've conquered.

📍 Information & passport available at:
H.P.T.E – Tel: +33 (0)5 62 56 70 65
Or visit any local Tourist Office

Renowned among mountain bikers, the Pic du Jer has become a top destination for downhill riders in the Pyrenees. The site has even hosted several rounds of the UCI Downhill World Cup, a testament to the quality and challenge of its trails.

The Pic du Jer Bike Park is open from April to November and offers a variety of trails graded blue, red, and black, catering to experienced riders and thrill seekers alike.

🚠 Starting point: Upper station of the historic Pic du Jer funicular

Trail Overview

🟦 Blue Flow Trail
A fun and fluid descent ideal for experienced mountain bikers looking for a smooth ride.
Length: 4 km – Vertical drop: 450 m – Gentle slope

🔴 Red Trails
A more technical ride with sharper turns and steeper sections.
Length: 3 km – Vertical drop: 450 m

🔴 Red Enduro Trail
Explore the hidden side of the Pic du Jer on this enduro loop, perfect for seasoned riders.
Length: 9.5 km – Downhill: 700 m – Uphill: 210 m

⚫ Black DH Trail (DH Noire)
A steep, highly technical descent reserved for expert riders and racers.
Length: 2 km – Very steep and demanding

Whether you're looking for flow, adrenaline, or technical challenge, the Pic du Jer Bike Park delivers a world-class MTB experience in the heart of the Pyrenees.

Golf de Lourdes (closed)

Golf de l'Hippodrome (Tarbes 20 km)

Golf du Tumulus (Laloubère 12 km)

Golf de la Bigorre (Bagnères 20 km)

Golf de Lannemezan (45 km)

2 Golf courses in Pau (35 km)