A high-altitude journey starting 15 May 2025 for 18 days
The Kamoot story and maps that started the dream
Several decades ago, Jordi Laparra published the first edition of what, for many, would become the guidebook for the most epic journey conceivable on the Iberian Peninsula. Portable GPS devices were not yet the norm, phones were not as smart as they are today, and there was no komoot. If you decided to cross the Pyrenees mountain range from one side to the other, you’d most likely follow the great directions contained in Jordi’s guidebook.
Years have gone by, some paths have changed, others have disappeared, and many more have opened. The same can be said for accommodation along the route. Earlier, there were stretches where it was very difficult to find a place to sleep under a roof, but there’s much more choice today. Bike technology has evolved too: bikes are better and allow you to cover more distance with less effort. All this has meant that the original route has been modified over time. The one I propose here is the most up-to-date and, for my taste, the most complete.
Thanks to komoot, if you decide to embark on this adventure, you’ll be able to improve the route as you go, adding new detours and points of interest to continue enriching what is, in my opinion, the most amazing MTB trip you can undertake on the peninsula.
You’ll start from the Mediterranean Sea in Llançá and cross the Catalan, Aragonese and Navarrese Pyrenees. Your adventure ends in Hondarribia, on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean.
The landscape changes constantly. You’ll pass through hot, dry areas, Mediterranean landscapes, and the wooded, temperate areas of the Atlantic.
This journey takes you to discover the best corners of the Pyrenees on fun trails and tracks through beautiful valleys and green alpine meadows and up to high altitudes.
It’s a tough ride, with a lot of elevation gain and difficult technical sections so you’ll need to be physically and mentally prepared for such an adventure. Check your bike’s in good condition too. My recommendation for this route is to take a MTB with front suspension and wide tyres, or one with light full suspension. Try to reduce your weight as much as possible to comfortably enjoy the trails. Bear in mind you’ll cross high mountain passes where storms and rapid temperature changes are common.
There are companies that offer luggage transportation from one point to another at each stage. For me, the satisfaction of carrying your own, and very little, luggage adds to the adventure of the experience.
The best time to cross the Pyrenees is in summer, although this is also when you’ll find more visitors in certain areas so try to book accommodation in advance.
Both Llançà and Hondarribia are well connected by train and bus to Girona and San Sebastián respectively, so it’s easy to organise the logistics.
Enjoy this epic and unforgettable trip!
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