The Transpyrénéenne motorcycle adventure from Perpignan to Biarritz

From Perpignan to Biarritz, the Transpyrénéenne is a journey you won't forget, an incredible ride on two wheels, where every bend reveals a fabulous panorama, between sea, mountains, valleys, forests, rivers and waterfalls. It's a journey that begins on the shores of the Mediterranean and ends on the beaches of the Atlantic. Grab your helmet and your bike, and join us for a gentle 5-day road trip along the Transpyrénéenne.

Day 1: Perpignan to Ax-les-Thermes

You start your epic journey in Perpignan, a colorful and vibrant Catalan city that is a gateway to the Pyrenees. Following the D117, you quickly leave the plain behind and plunge into the mountain foothills. The bends become more numerous, the road winds between hills, and the scent of garrigue still follows you. Each village you pass seems frozen in time, like Maury with its vineyards as far as the eye can see, or Quillan, a perfect place for a break and a coffee on the terrace.

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Gradually, you feel the call of the mountains. The D117 becomes a real biker's road, with flowing switchbacks and a pavement that sticks to your tires. As you climb to the Col de Jau, at 1,150 meters, the panorama opens up to green ridges and dense forests. Once you've reached the top, you pause for a moment to breathe in the pure air, admiring the clouds flirting with the peaks. As you descend, you pass through landscapes that blend wilderness and isolated hamlets, witnesses to a life once punctuated by the seasons and local traditions.

The roads to Ax-les-Thermes continue to wind. You pass Belcaire and its fields lined with low stone walls, then Roquefeuil, where you may come across transhumant herds. Finally, you arrive at Ax-les-Thermes, a health resort nestled between mountains and valleys. Here, you'll find everything you need to relax: pools of natural hot water steaming in the fresh air, lively lanes and restaurants serving typical mountain cuisine. Don't forget to try a trout recently caught in the local river, or a garbure, the traditional Pyrenean soup, perfect for warming up after an intense first day.

Day 2: Ax-les-Thermes to Col du Tourmalet

In the morning, you leave Ax-les-Thermes on the N20, ready to tackle the great passes of the Pyrenees. Within the first few kilometers, the road takes you to the Col de Puymorens. At 1,915 metres, this pass is a real treat: the bends are wide, the straights allow you to accelerate a little, and the views are breathtaking. On the way down, the landscape changes into steep valleys, punctuated by torrents and waterfalls.

After a quick stop in Tarascon-sur-Ariège to enjoy a coffee and observe the vestiges of the Cathar past, you continue towards the Portet-d'Aspet pass. This more technical route is made for bikers who like a challenge. The tight bends demand precision, but each hairpin offers a unique perspective on the surrounding forest. This pass, steeped in history thanks to its regular use by the Tour de France, gives you the impression that you too are taking part in this legendary event (minus the aches and pains the next day!).

The D618 then gradually leads you to the jewel of the day: the Col du Tourmalet. Mythical among mythicals, this 2,115-meter-high pass is a real ordeal for cyclists, but an absolute joy for bikers. The twists and turns stretch across a lunar landscape at the summit, contrasting with the valleys below. You stop at the summit to savor the moment, chat with other bikers and admire the statue of the Tourmalet giant, symbol of this legendary pass. In the evening, you take refuge in a mountain inn, where a hearty meal awaits you. Nothing beats a steaming cassoulet or duck confit after a day like this!

Day 3: Col du Tourmalet to Saint-Lary-Soulan

As you descend the Tourmalet in the early morning, the light illuminates the valleys. You stop off at Luz-Saint-Sauveur, a charming village known for its Pont Napoléon, an architectural masterpiece that spans the valley. The D918, which seems to be an ode to motorcycling, then leads you to the Col d'Aspin.

This pass, although not as high as the Tourmalet, offers an equally spectacular experience. The meadows are dotted with herds of cows and sheep grazing peacefully, adding a peaceful ambience to your climb. Once you've reached the summit, at 1489 meters, stay a while to admire the view over the Aure valley before heading back down to Arreau.

Arreau is the perfect place for a well-deserved lunch. Here, Pyrenean gastronomy reveals all its character. A steaming garbure, duck breast or blueberry pie will give you the energy you need to tackle the afternoon. Once you've had your fill, continue on to Saint-Lary-Soulan. This lively resort is known for its thermal baths and tranquil atmosphere. You can relax in the hot springs or simply stroll through the narrow streets.

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Day 4: Saint-Lary-Soulan to Oloron-Sainte-Marie

This fourth day is a total immersion in the Pyrenean wilderness. From Saint-Lary-Soulan, take the D618 to the Col de Peyresourde. This road, as fluid as it is demanding, winds its way through breathtakingly beautiful scenery. The curves follow one another with perfect precision, giving you the sensation of being at one with the road.

Once you've reached the top of the Col de Peyresourde, take a well-deserved break to admire the panorama. Here, the air is pure, the mountains stretch as far as the eye can see, and the green meadows are dotted with herds of cows. The descent to Loudenvielle is just as captivating, with flowing switchbacks guiding you to this charming village where the Génos-Loudenvielle lake reflects the surrounding peaks.

If you're looking for a gastronomic stopover, Loudenvielle has a number of local inns that celebrate local produce. A plate of Pyrenean cheeses accompanied by artisanal charcuterie will give you the energy to keep going.

After Loudenvielle, you continue towards the Ossau valley, a wild territory where nature reigns supreme. The road, sometimes narrow and winding, takes you through dense forests and roaring waterfalls. Lake Bious-Artigues is a must-see. Nestling at the foot of the Pic du Midi d'Ossau, it offers a soothing setting for a contemplative break.

At the end of the day, you reach Oloron-Sainte-Marie, a town that exudes authenticity. Its covered market and narrow cobbled streets will immerse you in a warm atmosphere. To round off your day, a meal at a local inn is a must. Taste Bayonne ham, mountain honey or grilled prime rib, all accompanied by a glass of Madiran or Jurançon. It's an evening that will leave you with gustatory memories to match the landscapes you've crossed so far.

Day 5: Oloron-Sainte-Marie to Biarritz

For this final leg, you gradually leave the mountains behind to reach the Basque country. The D918 remains your faithful companion, offering you another great driving experience. The landscapes change, becoming more undulating and dotted with typical Basque villages.

Along the way, you'll pass through such gems as Espelette, famous for its red peppers hanging from white houses, and Ainhoa, listed as one of France's most beautiful villages. Here, charm is omnipresent: colorful shutters, shady squares and artisanal stores make you want to stop at every corner.

The road then takes you to the Col de Saint-Ignace, a picturesque little pass that gives you one last glimpse of the Pyrenees before descending to the Atlantic coast. As you approach Biarritz, the air becomes more iodized, and your excitement builds. You know the ocean is just around the corner.

Finally, Biarritz reveals itself: magnificent beaches, surfers battling the waves, and the town's unique architecture. Walk along the corniche, perhaps stopping at the Rocher de la Vierge for a panoramic view of the ocean. To round off this adventure, sit down on a terrace overlooking the sea. A plate of axoa, or chipirons a la plancha accompanied by a glass of Irouléguy are the perfect end to this unforgettable journey.

Every kilometer of this Transpyrénéenne has been an adventure, and Biarritz, with its vibrant atmosphere and exceptional setting, is the perfect conclusion.

Conclusion

The Transpyrénéenne motorcycle tour is much more than just a journey, it's an adventure in several acts, crossing landscapes as varied as they are unforgettable. Whether you're a seasoned biker or simply looking to get away from it all, this route promises thrills and memories to last a lifetime.

In addition, we have two branches, one in Toulouse, the other in Biarritz. The advantage? With our OneWay offer, you can pick up a motorcycle in one city and return it in the other, without having to go back and forth! Book your bike whenever you like on our home page, and set off on this mythical route. The Mediterranean, the Pyrenees, the Atlantic: everything awaits you for a complete change of scenery.

Looking for more itineraries? We've got that too. Visit our brand-new Good Roads website at www.goodroads.agency!

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