Tour de France – Special

For three weeks every year, France is gripped by cycle mania when it plays host to one of sport’s greatest spectacles - the Tour de France. The best of the action takes place in the mountain stages of the Pyrenees, and with Exodus you can challenge yourself on these very same climbs.

The racers cover four or more cols in a day without stopping, but for us the aim is to relax, enjoy the view and take things at a more reasonable pace. Our Cols of the Tour de France trip takes you along some of the most scenic roads in France. The variety is breathtaking as we pass through chestnut forests, over barren mountains and along river gorges. Sleepy rural communities, offering a welcoming café and croissant, punctuate the climbs. This itinerary offers a challenge but one that is achievable by all riders. Our ‘stages’ start fairly gently with one mountain pass per day, but we soon crank up a few gears - a reasonable fitness level is needed to enjoy this trip. Each day those in the group who really want to push themselves have the option of detouring over an extra Col or taking in a stage ending. Your bags are transported from hotel to hotel, and you are supported by our minibus that offers mechanical assistance and a lift up or down the hills, if this is your desire.

We still have a few spaces left on our Tour de France Special ( 09-16 July 09). The trip runs from 09-16 July so coincides with the race itself. As well as the usual spectacular riding, you will also have the opportunity to actually watch the ‘Le Tour’ on Stage 9 on the Col de Aspin, Stage 10 on the climb of Hautacam, as well as the start of Stage 11 at Lannemezan. This will truly be an experience to remember!!

Alternatively, we also have spaces left on our standard departure, running from 13-20 Sepember 2009. This is a lovely time to visit the Pyrenees as the autumn colours are on their way and temperatures are ideal for cycling. The added bonus is that this also gives a bit more time to get fit beforehand!