Are you familiar with the Marmotte Gran Fondo Pyrénées? This event is considered one of the greatest cyclosportive challenges you can undertake. Until recently, logistics were a tricky issue. But there's good news: this has now been resolved. Additionally, you can enjoy a nice discount on registration. So, there's no reason not to participate.

Photo: Cycling Classics France 

Everyone who has ever ridden the Marmotte Gran Fondo Pyrénées agrees: it is tougher than La Marmotte in the Alps. This is because the route includes no fewer than five cols:

• Col du Tourmalet west side
• Hourquette d'Ancizan
• Col d'Aspin
• Col du Tourmalet east side
• Luz-Ardiden or Hautacam (this alternates annually)

These are names to make your mouth water.

Logistical challenge

In previous years, there were two variants organized every other year:

• Start in Argeles-Gazost, finish at Luz-Ardiden
• Start in Luz-Saint-Sauveur, finish at Hautacam

In both cases, the start and finish are about 30 kilometers apart. There are plenty of accommodations in both Argeles-Gazost and Luz-Saint-Sauveur, meaning you'll have to cover quite a few extra kilometers before or after the event, or arrange transportation. All in all, it's quite a logistical challenge you'd rather avoid.

Easier format

Since this year, the event has a simpler format. The 2024 route starts in Argeles-Gazost and finishes at Hautacam. The fact that you only have to descend to the start site after the finish is an absolute improvement.

Info

• Date: Aug. 25, 2024
• Start: Argeles-Gazost
• Finish: Hautacam
• Distance: 177 kilometers
• Elevation gain: 5700 meters
• Four feed stations providing water, cola, sports drinks, sports nutrition, fruit, and salty snacks
• Excellent traffic controllers
• Pasta party at the finish

A grandiose challenge in a fantastic environment. You can be proud to complete this.

By the way, in 2025 the route will start in Luz-Saint-Sauveur and finish at Luz-Ardiden. With 150 kilometers and 5400 meters of elevation, it could hardly be easier. Even then, the start and finish are close to each other.

Photo: Cycling Classics France

Défi du Tourmalet

Those who love the gran fondo can also participate in the medio fondo known as Défi du Tourmalet. This route includes climbing the Tourmalet from both sides and the final climb to Hautacam, covering a total of 122 kilometers with 4200 meters of elevation. This too is a grand challenge.

Discounted start tickets

Participation is very attractive, as the CycloWorld SHOP offers start tickets for only €75 instead of €100. Visit the webshop soon, because gone = gone!

After placing your order, you will receive a voucher valid for both distances within minutes. With this, you can register for free on the official registration page of the event.