From Perpignan to Biarritz, the Transpyrénéenne is a crossing that we do not forget, an incredible ride on two wheels, where each turn reveals a fabulous panorama, between sea, mountains, valleys, valleys, valleys, valleys, forests, forests, rivers, and waterfalls. It is a journey that starts on the shores of the Mediterranean and ends on the beaches of the Atlantic. Grab your helmet and your motorcycle, we'll take you on a 5-day, smooth road trip with us on the Transpyrénéenne.
Day 1: From Perpignan to Ax-les-Thermes
You start your journey in Perpignan, a colorful and vibrant Catalan city, which is an open door to the Pyrenees. By following the D117, you quickly leave the plain to dive into the foothills of the mountains. The turns become more numerous, the road snakes between the hills, and the scents of garrigue still follow you. Each village you pass through 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.
Gradually, you feel the call of the mountain. The D117 becomes a real biker road, with flowing bends and a road that sticks to your tires. Ascending to the Col de Jau, at 1,150 meters, the panorama opens up onto green ridges and dense forests. Once at the top, you stay for a moment to breathe in this pure air, admiring the clouds that flirt with the peaks. As you descend, you cross landscapes that combine wild nature and isolated hamlets, witnesses of a life once punctuated by the seasons and local traditions.
The roads to Ax-les-Thermes continue to meander. You pass through Belclaire and its fields bordered by stone walls, then through Roquefeuil, where you can meet herds in transhumance. Finally, you arrive in Ax-les-Thermes, a spa resort nestled between mountains and valleys. Here, everything will invite you to rest: the natural hot water pools that smoke in the fresh air, the lively streets and the restaurants that serve typical mountain cuisine. Be sure to enjoy trout caught recently in the local river, or garbure, this traditional soup from the Pyrenees, perfect to warm up after this first intense day.
Day 2: From Ax-les-Thermes to the Col du Tourmalet
In the morning, you leave Ax-les-Thermes by the N20, ready to attack the major passes of the Pyrenees. From the first kilometers, the road leads you to the Col de Puymorens. At 1,915 meters, this pass is a delight: the turns are wide, the straight lines allow you to accelerate a bit, and the view is breathtaking. On the way back down, the landscapes are transformed into deep valleys, punctuated by torrents and waterfalls.
After a quick stop in Tarascon-sur-Ariège to enjoy a coffee and observe the remains of the Cathar past, you continue to the Portet-d'Aspet pass. This route, which is more technical, is made for bikers who like a challenge. Tight turns require precision, but each hairpin offers a unique perspective on the surrounding forest. This pass, steeped in history due to its regular appearance in the Tour de France, gives you the impression of participating in this mythical event too (less aches the next day!).
The D618 then gradually leads you to the jewel of the day: the Col du Tourmalet. Mythical among the mythical, this pass culminating at 2,115 meters is a real test for cyclists, but an absolute delight for bikers. The switchbacks stretch into a lunar landscape at the top, contrasting with the valleys below. You stop at the top to enjoy the moment, chat with other bikers and admire the statue of the Tourmalet giant, symbol of this legendary pass. In the evening, you find 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: From the Col du Tourmalet to Saint-Lary-Soulan
Coming down from Tourmalet in the early morning, the light illuminates the valleys. You make a stop in Luz-Saint-Sauveur, a charming village known for its Napoleon Bridge, an architectural masterpiece that spans the valley. The D918, which seems to be an ode to motorcycling, then guides you to the Col d'Aspin.
This pass, although lower than the Tourmalet, offers an equally spectacular experience. The meadows are dotted with herds of cows and sheep that graze peacefully, adding a peaceful ambiance to your climb. Once at the top, at 1489 meters, you stay for a while to admire the view of the Aure Valley before going 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 back the energy you need to start the afternoon. Once full, you continue your itinerary to Saint-Lary-Soulan. This lively resort is known for its thermal baths and tranquil ambiance. You can relax in the warm waters or simply stroll through its streets.
Day 4: From Saint-Lary-Soulan to Oloron-Sainte-Marie
This fourth day is a total immersion in the Pyrenean wilderness. From Saint-Lary-Soulan, you take the D618 which takes you quickly to the Col de Peyresourde. This route, as fluid as it is demanding, winds through landscapes of breathtaking beauty. The turns follow one another with perfect precision, giving you the feeling of being one with the road.
Once at the top of the Peyresourde pass, you give yourself 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 that guide you to this charming village where Lake Genos-Loudenvielle reflects the surrounding peaks.
If you are looking for a gastronomic stop, Loudenvielle offers local inns that highlight local products. A plate of Pyrenean cheeses accompanied by handmade charcuterie will give you the energy to continue driving.
After Loudenvielle, you continue to 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 an essential stopover. Nestled at the foot of the Pic du Midi d'Ossau, it offers a soothing setting for a short contemplative break.
At the end of the day, you reach Oloron-Sainte-Marie, a city that exudes authenticity. Its covered market and its small cobbled streets plunge you into a warm atmosphere. To end your day, a meal at a local inn is a must. Try Bayonne ham, mountain honey or grilled prime rib, all accompanied by a glass of Madiran or Jurançon. This evening will leave you with tasteful memories that match the landscapes you have travelled through so far.
Day 5: From Oloron-Sainte-Marie to Biarritz
For this last stage, you gradually leave the mountains behind you to reach the Basque lands. The D918 remains your faithful companion and still offers you great driving sensations. The landscapes change, becoming more hilly and dotted with small typical Basque villages.
Along the way, you pass by jewels such as Espelette, famous for its red chilies hanging from white houses, or Ainhoa, ranked among the most beautiful villages in France. Here, charm is omnipresent: the colorful shutters, the shaded squares and the artisan shops make you want to stop at every corner.
The road then leads you to the Col de Saint-Ignace, a small picturesque passage that gives you a last glimpse of the Pyrenees before descending to the Atlantic coast. As you approach Biarritz, the air becomes more salty, and the excitement increases. You know the ocean is just around the corner.
Finally, Biarritz reveals itself: magnificent beaches, surfers who face the waves, and the unique architecture of the city. You follow the ledge, maybe you stop at the Rocher de la Vierge for a panoramic view of the ocean. To end this adventure, sit on the terrace facing the sea. A plate of axoa, or chipirons à la plancha accompanied by a glass of Irouléguy are the perfect end to this unforgettable trip.
Each kilometer of this Transpyrénéenne will have been an adventure, and Biarritz, with its vibrant atmosphere and exceptional setting, is the perfect conclusion.
Conclusion
The Transpyrénéenne by motorbike is much more than a journey, it is an adventure in several acts, a crossing of landscapes as varied as they are unforgettable. Whether you are an experienced motorcyclist or simply looking for an escape, this route promises you strong emotions and memories that will last forever.
In addition to that, we have two agencies, one located in toulouse, the other at biarritz. The advantage? The fact is that with our OneWay offer you can go and pick up a motorcycle in one city, and return it in the other, without having to go back and forth! Reserve your bike whenever you want by going to our home page, and set off on this mythical road. The Mediterranean, the Pyrenees, the Atlantic: everything awaits you for a total change of scenery.
Looking for more itineraries? We have that too. Visit our brand new Good Roads site at this address: www.goodroads.agency !
