I had another incredible trip to the Pyrenees in July 2022. A fantastic bunch joined me for this spectacular cycle over the mountains to the Mediterranean sea. Read all about our journey below.
Day 1
On the road and rolling early for day one of Le Raid Pyrénéen. The temperature hit 35 degrees with 40km to go. We had a much-needed dip in the water along the way. The group was in great spirits considering the high temperature. With all of the big climbing done for the day, we rolled in for some well-deserved rest.
Day 2
Day 2 was a big day. The 170km section from Lurbe St. Christau to Arreau with 4,300 meters elevation was a testing day in the bike. These iconic roads have had all of the best cyclists in the world at some point travel over them. The Col d’Aubisque, Col du Soulor, the queen of the Pyrenees Col Du Tourmalet, and finishing off with the Col d’Aspin were all highlights of the day. This is a day everyone will remember for a long time.
We had a complete turnaround in terms of the weather with the temperature dropping down to 12 degrees on the high mountains. We experienced some dense fog too. Everyone enjoyed some great climbing. We also got caught in the middle of a race on the Aubisque.
Day 3
Everyone arrived in Tarascon-sur-Ariège safely. That was the last big day with 180km and 3,200 meters elevation. We had some mechanical issues early on which made for a busy day of supporting to keep everybody still rolling. All in all, it was another great day in the saddle.
Day 4
Day 4 saw us starting to leave the Pyrenees behind and look toward the Mediterranean. The Col de Pymorens, (20km long), Col de Llous, and Col Rigat were all part of today’s cycle. It was a shorter day with 135km and 2,200 meters.
With day 4 complete, the Mediterranean was in sight. The full crew finished and got to relax early by the pool.
The photos just don’t do justice the scenery was incredible on this stage as we left the Pyrenees behind.
Day 5
The last day and 90km was covered today. The route was mostly flat with a rolling 30km on the coast to arrive in Cerbere.
Day 5 was completed with a gentle roll to the Mediterranean coast with all of the crew across the line safely and within the 100hrs in Cerbere.
Well done to everyone, it was an amazing week of cycling with a fantastic bunch of people to share the trip across the Pyrenees, from coast to coast. A big well done to Siobhan, Marie, and Mag for taking on the challenge of this epic ride. I am absolutely delighted to see the ladies on the trip and all finish it with ease.
“Do what you love, love what you do”
Thanks for the kind words from some of the crew on the trip…
Looking back on it now I realise this surreal experience under the direction of the legend that is Martin Kirwan was sensational. I didn’t have to worry about a thing except to trust Martin and take direction because he did all the hard work. From the early morning team meetings, the food stops, the evening meals and the accommodation everything was in my opinion perfect. Scenery was amazing, fellow cyclists worked together as a team and we approached the challenge day by day. Martin Kirwan took nothing to chance.
I’ll remember the moment I crossed the line for the rest of my life, that feeling of happiness and fulfilment. If you choose to make the rest of your life the best of your life I urge you to sign up to The Raid De Pyrenees today.
Mag Kirwan
This is one of those bucket list trips where you wonder…..can I, should I, will I? My advice is do it!
The organisation & road support, the Tour de France climbs & descents, the scenery and the craic made this trip truly unforgettable. The organisation by Martin Kirwan is second to none, the only thing that you have to do is pedal your bike!Go for it, the sense of achievement & memories will last long after the trip is over….
Marie Slattery
Le Raid Pyrénéen 2023?
After another epic trip to the Pyrenees, I am currently finalising the details for this year. Keep an eye out for more information in the coming weeks. Places will be limited on this trip again next year, so be sure you secure your spot once dates are confirmed… it is sure to be another great week!
If you are unsure whether this trip is suitable for you or not, please give me a shout. Although it is a challenging week, it is manageable and enjoyable for all. As I said, give me a call. I can chat with you in more detail about training before the trip, and the week of cycling itself!
If you have any other questions in the meantime, don’t hesitate to get in touch with me!
Martin.
