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Cycling in the Oriental Pyrenees

Most of cycling enthusiasts only know the Oriental Pyrenees from the Tour de France. There are, indeed, many famous Tour-climbs situated in that region, like the Col de Jau, the Col de Pailhères, Col de Chioula or the Col du Pradel.

However, it's a bit strange that only a few amongst the bike lovers are eager to add these climbs to their palmares. And this, although the Oriental Pyrenees are at least as interesting as the much more popular Alps to be discovered by bike : the weather is in general much better, the roads are in a well maintained and are less crowded.

A lot of small rivers are crossing the diverse scenery, the "gorges" which originated in that way in the course of the years, give this region an extra picturesque touch. So you have for instance the Gorges du Rébenty, which are definitely worth a visit.

Further, this region is well known for its rich cultural history. Wherever your bike tour will take you, you'll pass most certainly along one or more remains of the Cathar period.

The region offers plenty of cycling routes : the Aude f.i. offers +/- 1200km of cycling routes and 870km of mountainbike trails.

The region is partially dominated by the Massif du Canigou, with the Pic du Canigou as culminating point (2.784m).

Recommended bike friendly places to stay in the neighbourhood :
Maison Oranger - Estoher
Maison Amandier - Mosset
Les deux F - Bedou
Domaine de L'Espinet - Quillan

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