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Whether you are looking for
mountain biking or road riding, this area of the Pyrenees has
some of the best riding in Europe. It's no coincidence that the Tour de France, the Raid
Pyrenean, the Tour de Languedoc and other major races regularly pass
through these parts. There is riding to be found for athletes of all
abilities right up to rides incorporating thousands of metres of climb and
descent for the more ambitious.
Riding
in the French Pyrenees is one of the ” must have” experiences for
any cycling enthusiast, the area is steeped in cycling history with
the undulating and winding roads laying host to many of the world's
top class races, with breath taking scenery around every corner, this really is one of the best
locations, whether you are just sight seeing, or training for
something more serious!.
You will
find Mas Bellonte sitting comfortably in the Fuilla valley at just over 600m altitude, this stunningly beautiful building is the home of
your hosts Lynn and Malcolm Preedy who invite you to share the peace
and tranquility of this fantastic area.
The
cycling here is truly awesome and there is something for everyone, whether
you are road riding or mountain biking, you will find the
challenges you are looking for.
There
are loops on the road from one hour of undulating countryside, past
three hours of challenging vineyards, right up to six hour mountain epics, all with lovely sweeping hairpin bends that are as rewarding
to tick off on your way up, as they are to get the perfect line
through on your way down.
You
will find cafes tucked away in the many small villages that you pass
through, and a hot chocolate or a strong coffee is a must if you are
to truly experience the pro cyclist life!. Returning to the laid back
surroundings of Mas Bellonte is the perfect way to relax after such
an amazing ride, you can sit on the sun drenched terrace with your
feet up and enjoy a nice cold drink while you re- live your amazing adventures, and begin counting down the hours till your next
“epic” in the mountains.
If
mountain biking is more your thing then you should come prepared for
some of the most challenging riding you can imagine! There are no
chair lifts here to take you to the top, if awesome technical descents
are what you are looking for then you will have to earn them the
hard way! The trail network is vast in this area and you can ride
off road almost from the front door. Markings can be found on most
trails but they are discreet, so you will sometimes need keen
eyesight!
A great plus though in this area are the many mountain
refuge huts that are dotted around like little oasis, some are just buildings, but
some are staffed and will have food and water a plenty, make no mistake, here
you will truly be in the wilderness and
this brings the sort of rewards that are seldom found in normal
trail riding conditions, from wildlife to scenery to absolute silence, this
may well be the most incredible way to explore this area, it is very
addictive and you may find yourself longing to come
back time and time again!
So
pack your bike and come on over, this is somewhere that you really
need to see to believe, from the moment you arrive and excitedly
start to unpack your bike, till the moment you head home again, you will find amazing new rides and experiences every
day. the photos and
the memories of your time in the Pyrénées will be truly special, you
will leave a piece of yourself in the mountains, but every time you
come back, you will re discover it.
We
can offer safe storage for anyone wishing to bring their own bike,
and facilities for cleaning or essential maintenance. Cycle
hire can also be found at one of several bike shops in nearby towns.
See
you soon!!!
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