Rapha Cent Cols Challenge - Pyrenees

17 September — 27 September 2012

The most rural of the three routes, and the most ‘technical’. Ten days without crossing a major town to the sound of cascading water and cowbells, the tranquil beauty of these mountains will work their way to your heart. Steeper climbs and some rougher roads make this Challenge perhaps a little harder than the Alps.

    "I didn’t think CCC Alps could be bettered, but the Pyrenees was the ultimate cycling adventure."

   "For me, the Alps were defiantly shouting: “Come and have a go if you think you’re tough enough!”, but the Pyrenees were whispering: “Come and explore my beauty, you will love it.” The Alps was primarily a physical challenge to be overcome. The Pyrenees was more a spiritual voyage of discovery. To anyone considering these rides, I would recommend them both 100%, but if I could only do one, it would have to be the Pyrenees.”

Cent Cols

Introducing the 50 Cols

In response to several requests, for those for whom a ten-day event is too long, we are now pleased to be able to offer the option of riding stages One to Five, or stages Six to Ten of the Cent Cols Challenge. The Cinquante (50) Cols Challenge will allow riders to fit in easily with the main group : they will either leave or arrive at the event on the Rest Day, so they will have time to pack / unpack their bikes without the event being in full momentum.  

To ride five stages of these Challenges is an achievement in itself worthy of deep respect : most CCC riders say that days two, three and four are the hardest. The body is fighting to adapt to the 'shock' of such intense riding. You will experience the unique magic of this event, but will avoid the deep sense of fatigue (and subtle elation!) that comes in the second week.

What's Included?

Twelve nights accommodation, twin occupancy (six nights for 50 Cols riders)
All breakfasts and evening meals at the hotel and restaurants
Snacks and lunches on riding days (excluding energy drink, bars, gels)
Experienced guides, mechanic and four dedicated support vehicles
Monthly newsletters from Phil Deeker
A three month training plan from La Fuga Performance

What’s Not?

Flights
Flight transfers / travel to / from start hotel
Travel Insurance
Drinks with evening meals
Incidental Expenses
Tips and gratuities (not expected but warmly received!)

How Do I Book?

Click on the “Book this Tour” button at the top of the page from where you will be guided through the booking process online. At this stage you will be asked to pay a £500 non-refundable deposit. Your remaining balance needs to be paid at least 60 days before departure. La Fuga will send you a reminder via email closer to the time.

If you would like to book on the 50 Cols the booking procedure is the same as the 100 Cols with a £500 non-refundable deposit payable. You will be presented with the 100 Cols price when booking online but this will be corrected on the invoice sent out to you.

The Knowledge

  • Price 100 Cols: £1980 (twin occupancy)
  • Price 50 Cols: £1190 (twin occupancy)