Raid Pyrenean road cycling challenge (720km, 11000m assent, 100 hrs!)
The Raid Pyrenean traverses the Pyrenees from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean. It was established in 1950 keeping as close to the Spanish border as possible on surfaced roads, not surprisingly this takes in most of the big cols en route. Then, as if this was not hard enough the organizers introduced the rule that the route had to be completed within 100 hours!
It is a challenge for sure, however, it is also a chance to ride most of the famous cols in the Pyrenees, including beasts such as the Tourmalet and Aubisque, and to cycle the quiet and beautiful back roads and passes of France's southernmost mountain range. The scenery is stunning, the road surfaces good, and the occasional car drivers are extremely courteous and respectful of cyclists. Consequently the Raid is also a holiday and Marmot Tours takes care of all the logistics for you, so all you have to do is ride, eat and sleep.
Full details on - http://www.marmot-tours.co.uk/Road-Cycling-Holidays/raid-pyrenean.html
Nov 14, 2009
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