French Pyrenees Road Trip Itinerary
The French Pyrenees Road Trip is an unforgettable experience that takes you from the beautiful coastal city of Biarritz to the picturesque city of Perpignan. Along the way, you'll pass through the charming towns of Larrau, Gabas, and Foix, all offering a variety of attractions and activities. The journey is roughly 800 km and takes about 6 days to complete, so it's best to plan your trip for the summer months when the weather is warm and the roads are in good condition.
The route is mostly made up of winding roads and narrow mountain passes, so it's important to plan ahead and take into account the curves and twists of the road. However, the scenery along the way is breathtaking and well worth the effort. From lush green valleys to snow-capped peaks, you'll be surrounded by the beauty of the Pyrenees.
The best part of the French Pyrenees Road Trip is that it's suitable for any driver, regardless of experience, and can be completed on a moderate budget. So, if you're looking for an adventure that will create lasting memories, the French Pyrenees Road Trip is the perfect option.
6
number of days
800 km
route length
fair
budget
tourist
good for
on the right
traffic direction
moderate
accident level
START
Biarritz
Distance 800 km
Driving time 19.0 h
Pace: slow
183.9 kWh
Airports
BOD
[detailsContainer]
Biarritz is a beautiful city located on the southwest coast of France, in the Basque Country region. It is a great starting point for a road trip through the French Pyrenees, where you can explore the stunning landscapes and local culture.
The city is served by Biarritz-Anglet-Bayonne Airport (BIQ), located only 8km away. It offers connections to many cities in Europe and regular flights from Paris and London. Car rental is available at the airport, making it easy to start your road trip.
Once in the city, you can visit some of the most popular attractions, such as the Imperial Chapel, the Biarritz Aquarium, or the old city of Biarritz. There are also some great beaches, like the Grande Plage, where you can relax and enjoy the sun.
You can also find many restaurants, cafes, and bars in the city, as well as unique shops and markets. If you want to explore the surrounding area, you can take a day trip to the nearby towns of St-Jean-de-Luz or Bayonne, or you can drive to the Pyrenees Mountains.
Biarritz is an amazing place to start your French Pyrenees Road Trip and explore the incredible landscapes, culture, and attractions of this beautiful part of France.
1
Biarritz
- Larrau
Distance 132 km
Driving time 3.4 h
Pace: slow
30.4 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Welcome to the beautiful road trip stage from Biarritz, France to Larrau! This 132 km drive will take you no more than 3 hours, so you can enjoy the most of the journey. The winding roads will take you through some of the most picturesque places, so don't forget to take some pictures!
Start your journey in Biarritz, where you can explore its old town and the beautiful beaches. Then, continue your trip to the charming town of Garris, where you can visit its old church and the nearby lake. After that, you can drive through the stunning countryside of Soumoulou and Arudy, with its rolling hills and lush green meadows.
Finally, you will reach Larrau, a small town located in the Pyrenees. Here, you can explore the old castle and the nearby forests. Make sure to take some time to admire the breathtaking views of the mountains!
Make sure to pay attention to the historical sites, scenic roads, and winding roads along the way. For more detailed information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Larrau - France - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
❯
❮
2
Larrau
- Pau
Distance 115 km
Driving time 2.8 h
Pace: modest
29.9 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Start your road trip adventure in Larrau, France and make your way to Pau, a journey of 113km that will take you less than 3 hours! Along the way, you will be mesmerized by the beauty of the stunning Pyrenees mountains. Keep your eyes open for historical sites, as well as the winding roads that will take you through some of the most picturesque landscapes. As you make your way through the small villages, you will be able to take in the unique culture of the Basque region. Once you arrive in Pau, you will be able to explore the city and its many attractions. For more information on what to do, where to stay, and where to eat, be sure to check out the Itinerary for this stage of your road trip adventure. Enjoy your journey!
Pau - France - Europe - Road Trip - www.wallpaperflare.com
Pau - France - Europe - Road Trip - www.pikrepo.com
Pau - France - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
❯
❮
3
Pau
- Vallee d'Ossau
- Gabas
Distance 53 km
Driving time 1.2 h
Pace: modest
13.7 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Begin your road trip from Pau and explore the stunning Vallee d'Ossau. The drive is only 53km and should take you less than 2 hours. You will be mesmerized by the winding roads that take you through the valley. As you drive, be sure to pay attention to the scenic roads. Along the way, you will find plenty of attractions to explore, such as the Lac d'Ossau, the Pic du Midi d'Ossau and the Grottes de Bétharram. If you're looking for a place to stay, you'll find plenty of accommodation options in the area. After a day of exploring, you can enjoy a delicious meal at one of the many restaurants in the area. When you reach Gabas, you can find plenty of campsites to enjoy a peaceful night's sleep. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Gabas - France - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
❯
❮
4
Gabas
- Col d'Aubisque
- Bagnères de Luchon
Distance 190 km
Driving time 5.7 h
Pace: slow
43.8 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Get ready for an unforgettable road trip starting in Gabas, France and leading through Col d'Aubisque to Bagnères de Luchon! This 195 km journey will take you about 7 hours of driving, so make sure to take the necessary breaks and enjoy the picturesque landscapes along the way. As you pass through Col d'Aubisque, take some time to admire the stunning views of the Pyrenees. The road is very winding, with some steep ramps and narrow sections, so make sure to pay attention to the road. As you continue your journey, you will be able to experience some of the most beautiful nature in the area. Finally, you will reach Bagnères de Luchon, where you can rest and enjoy the scenery. More information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Start your road trip now!
Bagnères de Luchon - France - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
❯
❮
5
Bagnères de Luchon
- Col du Tourmalet
- Foix
Distance 122 km
Driving time 2.6 h
Pace: modest
31.6 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on a 120 km road trip starting at Bagnères de Luchon, France, and ending in Foix. Along the way, you will be able to enjoy the picturesque landscapes and scenic roads of the Col du Tourmalet. Be aware that there will be steep ramps, some very winding sections, and some narrow sections. This is one of the stages of a larger tour, so make sure to check out the "Itinerary" for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. It should take you fewer than 3 hours to complete the journey, so get ready for a memorable experience!
Foix - France - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
❯
❮
6
Foix
- Perpignan
Distance 187 km
Driving time 3.3 h
Pace: modest
48.7 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Welcome to the Foix-Perpignan road trip stage! This 186 km route will take you less than four hours to complete, and it's full of interesting places to visit. Start your journey in Foix, a historic town in the south of France that offers a range of historical sites to explore. From Foix, take the winding roads through the countryside, taking in the stunning views of the Pyrenees Mountains. Be sure to keep an eye out for some of the many historical sites that you'll pass along the way. As you make your way towards Perpignan, you'll come across quaint villages, some of which are home to some of the best restaurants in the region. Finally, you'll arrive in Perpignan, a city full of culture and history. Here, you can visit the Palais des Rois de Majorque, the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, and the Church of St. Jacques. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your Foix-Perpignan road trip!
Perpignan - France - Europe - Road Trip - Flickr
Perpignan - France - Europe - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
❯
❮
Perpignan
[detailsContainer]
Perpignan is the perfect end to any French Pyrenees Road Trip. It is the largest city in the Pyrenees-Orientales department, located just 16 km from the Mediterranean Sea. It is an ideal spot to explore the wonders of the Pyrenees and Catalonia.
Perpignan is home to a variety of attractions, including the Palais des Rois de Majorque, the 13th century castle, the Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste, the 19th century train station, the Palais des Congrès, and more. The city also boasts a number of museums, such as the Musée d’Art Moderne, the Musée des Beaux-Arts, and the Musée des Sciences Naturelles.
For those taking the car, Perpignan is easily accessible from the A9 motorway from the north and the A61 motorway from the south. It is also linked to the rest of Europe by the TGV high speed train, with direct connections to Paris. For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Perpignan-Rivesaltes Airport (PGF) which is just a 20 minute drive from the city.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing break or an active adventure, Perpignan has something for everyone. So why not make it the end destination of your French Pyrenees Road Trip?
Perpignan - France - Europe - Road Trip - Flickr
Perpignan - France - Europe - Road Trip - flickr.com
❯
❮
French Pyrenees Road Trip at a glance
-
Start:
Biarritz
-
End:
Perpignan
-
Distance:
800 km
-
Stay:
6 days
-
Getting there:
Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport (BOD)
-
When to drive:
June, July, August, September
-
More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
The French Pyrenees Road Trip is an enchanting journey spanning around 800 km from the surfers' paradise of Biarritz on the Atlantic coast to the culturally rich city of Perpignan, near the Mediterranean Sea. Typically a 6-day adventure, this route offers travelers a deep dive into the breathtaking scenery, historical wonders, and the warm hospitality of the Pyrenees region.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Biarritz: This glamorous beach town, once the retreat of royalty, boasts grand architecture and is a European surfing capital.
- Larrau: Nestled in the heart of lush landscapes, Larrau provides access to the stunning Holzarte Footbridge spanning a dramatic gorge.
- Gabas: This charming village is a gateway to outdoor activities and the serene Lake Artouste, surrounded by alpine beauty.
- Foix: Dominated by its impressive medieval castle, Foix invites history enthusiasts to explore its past and enjoy its vibrant cultural scene.
- Perpignan: Rich in Catalan heritage, Perpignan captivates visitors with its blend of French and Spanish influences, colorful festivals, and the iconic Palace of the Kings of Majorca.
Best Time to Go:
Late spring to early autumn (May to October) is the most delightful period for this Road Trip, offering pleasant temperatures, blooming landscapes, and the full array of tourist amenities.
Potential Risks:
The serpentine mountain Roads and occasional steep passes call for vigilant driving, particularly during inclement weather or in less visible conditions.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- The route traverses the Parc National des Pyrénées, a haven for endangered species like the Pyrenean brown bear and the bearded vulture.
- The Col du Tourmalet, a famous Tour de France mountain pass, can be part of your itinerary, appealing to cycling fans.
- Culinary explorers can savor regional specialties such as cassoulet, duck confit, and a variety of artisanal cheeses en route.
A good choice for:
Embarking on the French Pyrenees Road Trip is an opportunity to experience the thrill of discovery at every bend. With its rich tapestry of natural splendor, deep historical roots, and compelling local cultures, this journey is an essential experience for Roadtrippers who cherish variety and the allure of the open Road.
-
