Riding4GBS

Chapter One: To Conquer the Pyrenees

A complete coast-to-coast traverse of one of Europe's most challenging mountain ranges. Self-supported. Side by side.

~12days

gbsGlobals.days

~1,000km

gbsGlobals.kilometres

~22,000m

Metres Climbed

~2.5

The Height of Everest

This is more than a bike ride; it's the next chapter in our shared story. A testament to Edurne's unwavering support through every step of my GBS journey, this is our challenge — a complete coast-to-coast traverse of one of the Europe's most challenging mountain ranges.

The Style

A Shared Journey

This challenge is a journey we will undertake as a team, side-by-side. We'll be riding in a self-supported bikepacking style, carrying all our own equipment and relying on the kindness of the community we meet along the way.

We would be honored and motivated to have local riders join us for a few kilometers or to share the effort on a classic mountain pass. This journey is about community, and we welcome anyone who wants to be a part of it.

01

The Start

Direction Mediterranean → Atlantic
Distance ~400km
Elevation Gain ~8000m
Terrain High cols, steep gradients

East from the Basque coast, battling the legendary cols of the French Pyrenees. Aubisque, Tourmalet, Aspin — names that echo through cycling history. Each summit is a victory over both mountain and the limitations GBS tried to impose. The French side is characterised by steep, dramatic climbs and deep, verdant valleys that funnel you toward the next great challenge.

02

The Climbing

Direction Spain → France → Spain
Distance ~200km
Elevation Gain ~7000m
Terrain Long, remote climbs

After reaching the Mediterranean, the journey turns west for the long road home. This is a test of endurance and heart, a deep dive into the Spanish side of the mountains. Our route will focus on the long, remote, and beautiful roads of Catalunya, Aragón, and finally, Navarra. The climbs are less steep but just as relentless, demanding a different kind of strength for the journey back to the Atlantic.

03

The Finish

Direction Spain → Atlantic Coast
Distance ~300km
Elevation Gain ~5000m
Terrain Rolling hills, coastal roads

This will be some description of finally reaching the Atlantic coast, the emotions of completing the challenge, and the final push to the finish line. The terrain will be less mountainous but still demanding, with rolling hills and coastal roads that test the legs after weeks in the mountains.

04

The Homecoming

Direction Hondarribia → Pamplona
~100km ~100km
~2000m ~2000m
Gentle valleys, celebration Gentle valleys, celebration

This will be some description about the final stage, the homecoming, the celebration, the emotions of returning to Pamplona after conquering the Pyrenees. It will be a mix of relief, joy, and reflection on the journey that has been both a physical and emotional challenge.