Spain

Pyrenees All Mountain Traverse

Guided Mountain Bike Holiday

Grade

1
2
3
4
5

Duration

8 days

Prices from

£2,085 P.P.

OPTIONAL E-MTB DEPARTURES

We offer this holiday with an e-MTB only departure as well as regular trips where you can choose a normal bike or a pedal assist e-MTB hire. Boost your riding off the beaten track! Our e-MTB only departures offer experienced riders the chance to enjoy a phenomenal e-mountain biking adventure with Skedaddle.

Hire one of our quality e-mountain bikes and experience the buzz of a pedal-assisted ride. You may choose to hire an e-MTB on a regular tour date for this holiday but bear in mind that the pace will be set to riders without an e-bike.

BOOK NOW
Join us on this magnificent journey, traversing the Spanish central Pyrenees. This trip has taken on many incarnations over 20 years of exploration. It is forever improving and hitting the sweet spot for regular MTB riders.
 
For those looking to enjoy the journey with a group of like-minded e-bikers, we have e-bike only departures available. Please see our dates and prices section to see which departures are exclusively for e-bikes.
 
The Pyrenees, Europe’s second largest mountain range, provide the background for a fantastic mountain biking adventure. Until recently, this riding heaven has been kept as a secret by local riders. Finding it increasingly difficult to keep their precious secret they have decided to share what they (and us) believe to be the best riding in Europe. The results are awesome, with hundreds of kilometres of singletrack snaking through some of Europe’s most stunning scenery. We will be exploring the hills and mountains that form a seemingly impenetrable natural border between France and Spain.
 
The central area on the southern Spanish side is taken largely by the Province of Aragon, a proud region containing the Pyrenees’ highest peaks and most spectacular scenery. Immense valleys gouge their way south to drain into the Rio Ebro creating a first-class destination for Enduro style riding. What we’ve come up with we feel is a must ride itinerary to any singletrack junkie. Mountain biking the Pyrenees on this trip will take you through 3 distinct regions to ride over the most unbelievable trails.
 
The trip's essence is 100% fun; however a good level of fitness is essential. The formula will be Enduro style riding with big steady ascents to give access to the most exhilarating flowing trails to bring you back into the deep valleys. Uplifts will be given on a daily basis to help you get the most out of your days on the bike.
 
There are so many trails that we will build the trip around the group's needs and wishes, adjusting the route as the week evolves. These will be big wilderness days out, but with expert guiding. Traditional village hotels have been chosen, with lively bars and restaurants close by to help you unwind and re-fuel after some amazing fun in the saddle. 
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Holiday Highlights

  • Oh, just sweet, sweet singletrack everywhere
  • The full traverse of the stunning Tena valley
  • Riding ancient singletrack steeped with history and heritage
  • Exploring the untouched Spanish Pyrenees
  • Enjoying tasty local cuisine with a glass of Somantano Red
  • Taking on el Classico from San Andreas hermitage

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Itinerary

Day 1
Arrival - Zaragoza (Night in Sallent de Gallego)
Non Riding Day

After arriving at Zaragoza you will be met and we’ll transfer to the first night’s accommodation high in the Tena valley to the pretty mountain village of Sallent de Gallego (Approx. 2 hours).

It’s time to meet your guides, build your bikes and give them a spin before we have a chat about what to expect throughout the week. Then it’s out to a local restaurant to sample the fine mountain fayre, washed down with the local Huescan, Somantano red.

Day 2
Tena Valley Traverse
25 Miles / 40 Kms Approx.
Ascent: 1,206 Metres Approx.
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch
  • Ascent: 1,206 Metres Approx.

What better way of starting the week than one of the area’s classics! Using a quick uplift to help us get the best riding out of the day, we set off on a traversing trail below the dramatic peak of Foradaba which guards the head of the Tena valley. The traverse starts on double track and quickly turns into a ribbon of singletrack gently descending though pastures giving you chance to get your head in gear for trails to come and take in the magnificent views of the 3000m+ Picos de Infierno.

The difficulty of the trail eases and the pace quickens as we blast through thick beech forest to the banks of the Barra reservoir. A short sharp climb gives us some good height for a singletrack fiesta on an array of fun trails taking us from open pastures through forest to valley meadows to drop us back at base in Sallent de Gallego, an idea spot for a morning coffee.

A relaxing super flow trail along the side of the Lanuza reservoir leads us to the climb of the day on steady jeep track. As we top out the views down the valley and of the surrounding peaks of the Sabucos range are simply breath-taking. The descent twists through the forests at a pace with the odd technical pass down to the attractive village of Panticosa and a lazy picnic lunch by the river.

After a revitalising dip in the icy waters the ski gondola will zip us up 800 metres with ease. We will pass through some carved berms of the bike park before heading into the vast forests taking on beautiful snaking singletrack between villages. It’s a great day out and a fantastic start to a week that just keeps giving!

Day 3
Biescas Trails to Torla
19 Miles / 31 Kms Approx.
Ascent: 960 Metres Approx.
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch
  • Ascent: 960 Metres Approx.

A welcome uplift takes us to the pass sitting at a little over 1,600 metres from where we start with a steady but forgiving climb to around 2,000 metres. Here on the high pastures, we are perfectly placed to see the glaciated Ordesa Valley and the narrow ribbon of trail that will lead us across open-mountain, taking us through numerous forgiving switchbacks with the Aragon Valley around 1,000 metres below. Through forest and then wild pasture this untamed beast will throw everything at us as it weaves a fantastic line down the mountainside.

Once in the valley bottom a well-earned lunch will be taken al fresco while you look back at what you’ve just descended. From the picnic spot we’ll pick up part of the Camino de Santiago. This section descending down the valley and combines the luxuries of sweet flowing singletrack, short climbs and beautiful ever-changing views, give a more relaxing yet enjoyable end to a brilliant day on the bike.

Day 4
Ara Valley Trails to Ainsa
36 Miles / 58 Kms Approx.
Ascent: 1,020 Metres Approx.
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch
  • Ascent: 1,020 Metres Approx.

This morning we’ll pack up and head towards our second destination of the trip on the edge of the magnificent Ordesa National Park, with its dramatic canyons and beautiful glacial valleys. The glorious medieval town of Ainsa is a hub for an endless collection of paths and ancient trails that have linked villages and valleys for centuries.

Luckily for us they have been cleared and revitalized, creating a riding paradise beneath the gaze of 3000m+ peaks. A route that should be high on any trail riders list is ‘the loop’ of the Pena Tanesa Mountain that rises nearly 2,000 metres above the Cinca Valley.

For this we’ll use a bit of uplift to get a little over 1,000m and from the village of Grebe we’ll be straight into the good stuff on a trail that meanders its way through forest and twists down towards the gushing Viu River.

The main climb of the route begins with a steady ascent towards a pass that opens up fantastic views of the snow-capped National Park. Once over the top the fun really begins as a gently descending line of singletrack snakes us through dense beech forest before traversing beneath dramatic limestone cliffs on a long stunning section of trail.

After lunch next to a beautifully preserved medieval village there’s a whole lot of fun to be had on the paths that link the villages as we cruise back towards base. Sections of singletrack will take us through otherworldly desert like landscapes, along ancient stone mule trails and as well as the smooth flowing to spit us out for a refreshing beer in the local plaza.

Day 5
Maxiavalancha and Ibon de Plan
29 Miles / 46 Kms Approx.
Ascent: 1,060 Metres Approx.
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch
  • Ascent: 1,060 Metres Approx.

By now the guides have worked out what type of trail gets the group buzzing and today will more than likely be a multiple uplift day taking in numerous fantastic sections of singletrack.

Our plan is to take you into the stunning Ara Valley and the Mordog whose river gushes with crystal clear waters from the snow melt of the higher peaks. The vans will give us some height to maximise fun before we embark on a rollercoaster of a ride through exhilarating switchbacks deep into the Sieste Canyon.

The trail swings west and follows the canyon downstream to some fantastic stunning swimming holes. After a refreshing dip the trail that awaits carves a route above the river, making you work here and there for ‘endless’ fun through the pines.

Finally, the trail drops a little more sharply, testing our switchback skills on the descent to the Rio Ara. This will possibly be the fastest lunch of the week as there are usually plenty of eager riders to take on more!

A quick lift back into the mountains on the other side of the valley will give you chance to try out the splendid double descent from the village of Campodarbe that kicks off on some beautifully exposed trail, as we dash in and out of forest and through alpine meadows before a finale flourish back to the river.

Day 6
Rabaltueras and Planadona
18 Miles / 29 Kms Approx.
Ascent: 370 Metres Approx.
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch
  • Ascent: 370 Metres Approx.

It’s pack-up day again as we migrate east on our ‘perfect trail’ odyssey. But this time we will be doing the majority of the transfer ourselves.

We’re heading to the adjacent Esera Valley, gateway to the Parque de Maladeta–Posets and Aneto the loftiest peak in the Pyrenees at 3,404m. The support crew will whisk you up the Cinqueta Valley past the village of San Juan and high into the Macizo de Cotiella range. We’ll have the ideal warm-up as we climb the steady track that zig-zags up the mountainside and the Puerto de Saunc at a respectable 2,010m. As we take refreshments on the pass the view is simply inspiring up the Benasque Valley and into the Montes Malditos topped by the grandeur of Aneto.

The work is now done and the fun is about to begin. The trail is steep and technical at first before easing off for a fantastic ride down the Lligat River on narrow singletrack for a truly memorable ride. This trail makes you work and is a fun test of all you riding skills before bringing you to the village of Saunc on the banks of the Rio Esera.

You might have guessed but once in the bottom of the valley it’s back up for a short climb that gives plenty of height for the enthralling finale. The trail is blissful and glides through the pastures of Montinero on snaking singletrack and from the Hermitage of San Andres there are a few switchbacks and the odd rocky section to navigate as it traverses us to our third and final hotel in the village of Benasque.

Day 7
Rincon del Cielo and Gallinero inferior
18 Miles / 29 Kms Approx.
Ascent: 490 Metres Approx.
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch
  • Ascent: 490 Metres Approx.

After all the magnificent trails we’ve ridden it’s difficult to imagine what we can do to top it all off.

Luckily enough we’re in the right spot as the village is at the bottom of what is known as the best downhill mountain bike route in the Pyrenees. With the now familiar morning uplift taking expectant riders into the Sierra de Llauset it will only leave us a short climb to warm our legs and prepare our heads for the grand height of 2,200m.

It’s quite a spectacle looking down 1,400m back to the valley floor and across to the awesome Marcizo de Posets. After we’ve regained our breath and composure, scoffed a banana and a few nuts we will head on down for an afternoon of descending!

This breathtaking descent can be divided into 3 distinct sections. The first stretch traverses open mountainside along a ribbon of trail before switching into forest, taking on rock gardens and rooty challenges. Just as you thought you couldn’t take any more the technical level eases, offering up a fantastic smooth section, allowing you relax and pin your ears back a little.

A short climb connects with an exquisite descent through pines with a few steep switchbacks to test your cornering, ending in a dramatic enclosed canyon. A short heft out and a couple of minutes turning the pedals brings us to the final section through the Rabas forest; again fast with the odd bit of technical stuff to keep us focused. It is the best possible end to this mythical descent and spectacular week.

The terrace of a local bar awaits to clink glasses in celebration before tucking into a celebratory meal and I’m sure much discussion about your favourite trail of the week, if you can possibly pick one.

Day 8
Departure - Zaragoza
Non Riding Day
  • Meals: Breakfast

Sadly it’s time to pack up and say our goodbyes before our transfer back to Zaragoza airport (Approx. 2 hours).

Please Note The days described in the itinerary are an example of the rides that may be taken during your week. The local guide team will choose trails that are suitable for you and the group’s ability. There is so much incredible biking that no week will ever be the same, keeping it fresh and keeping the exploration alive!

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The Cycling

Terrain

The Pyrenees form a natural border between France and Spain and the terrain is best described simply as mountainous. The routes will take us over high passes, through river valleys and across alpine meadows. The scenery is simply spectacular with snow-capped peaks visible most of the year.

The riding is challenging and varied. While we will use uplifts to access the trails on most days a reasonable amount of climbing is to be expected daily. The trip includes a very high percentage of singletrack so good bike handling skills are essential (even on the e-bike departure). You will frequently come across technical features such as switchback corners, rocky descents and narrow trails.

Please contact us if you have any questions about required experience on.

There is the option to use an e-MTB on this holiday, as well as an e-MTB exclusive departures. Please note, if opting for an e-MTB on a standard departure, the pace of the riding will be set by those on MTBs. If you are interested in riding an e-MTB on this holiday please click here for more information.

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Mountain Biking Grade

1
2
3
4
5
Grade 4 : Challenging

Distances of 25-50 miles / 40-80 kms per day

For regular mountain bikers who have a good level of fitness

Routes with frequent moderate to difficult technical sections

Our grading guidelines have been carefully created based on our many years of cycling experience, as well as customer feedback from our trips. Of course, if you're still struggling to figure out where you fit on the scale, do feel free to give us a quick call and we'll be more than happy to help!

For more information about our grading system click here.

Is this suitable for you?

As well as keeping a good level of fitness you are also an experienced biker and enjoy riding more challenging trails. You usually ride most weekends and can cover between 30 and 50 miles over a full 8-9 hour day (with breaks). The routes you choose generally include more challenging 1-2 hour long climbs perhaps with sharp switchbacks and sections of large and loose rocks. You are comfortable riding most trails including sections of technical or exposed singletrack with some testing obstacles such as drop offs and steep downhills. Our grade 4 trips should suit you.

For more information about the grading of this holiday in particular, please check out the terrain section which will give you some specifics of what to expect on this tour.

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Dates & Prices

Secure Your Holiday With A Deposit

Book now with a £400 deposit and nothing more to pay until 60 days before departure. Choose a date to start your booking and see all prices, including bike hire and single room supplements.

Select a date to view prices and book
Start Date
End Date
Duration
Price p.p.
Start Date
01/06/2025
Return Date
08/06/2025
Duration
8 days
Price
£2,085.00
Start Date
17/08/2025 E-Bike Departure
Return Date
24/08/2025
Duration
8 days
Price
£2,085.00

Whats Included Tick

A) Accommodation (shared twin rooms.

B) Meals as per the itinerary (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner)

C) Full tour service, including Skedaddle guides.

D) Unless stated, at least one leader qualified in first aid

E) Support vehicle and luggage transfers

F) Airport transfer on scheduled arrival day from Zaragoza airport (ZAZ)

G) Airport transfer on scheduled departure day to Zaragoza airport (ZAZ)

What's not Included Cross

A) Bike rental (available if required)

B) Flights and charges for travelling with your bike (if applicable)

C) Meals not stated in the itinerary

D) Single room (available if required)

E) Travel insurance

F) Personal clothing and equipment

G) Personal expenditure (souvenirs, bar bills, hotel facilities etc)

H) Entrance fees to museums and other attractions en route

I) Airport transfers on days other than the scheduled arrival / departure days

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Private Departures

Private Departures

Are you keen to only travel with your family or friends? Struggling to find the right date? Well, we can organise a private departure for this tour and tailor aspects to suit your group's specific needs. Contact our friendly team and we'll help you turn your dream into reality.

The Essentials

Travel Options

This tour starts in Zaragoza and finishes in Zaragoza.

Group airport transfers are included in the cost of your holiday. To join the airport transfer on arrival, you’ll need to arrive into Zaragoza (ZAZ) in time for the scheduled transfer.

At the end of the tour, we will transfer the group to Zaragoza (ZAZ).

Please contact us for more detailed information on the specific flight schedules available for your holiday. Please check with us before booking any flights, to make sure we have reached the minimum number required to guarantee your holiday and to ensure your flights fit with our scheduled transfers.

Please note If you make travel arrangements that fall outside of the above time windows there may be an additional charge for individual transfers.

Accommodation

Accommodation (shared twin or double rooms) will usually be en suite in 2/3 star hotels or guesthouses. Family run, personable, charming, comfortable and homely are boxes we tick when looking for places to stay. A million miles away from chain style hotels and all with unique touches.

Bike Hire

If you don’t own a suitable bike or would prefer to avoid bringing your own, we have bikes available to rent.

Rental bikes are typically Giant Trance full suspension Trail bikes. These are set up tubeless with disc brakes, dropper seatposts and quality components.

Our e-mountain bikes are typically Reign E+2 full suspension mountain bikes.

If booking onto one of our e-bike departures, only e-MTBs will be available.

Our bikes come equipped with at least one bottle cages and water bottle, a seat post bag containing: puncture repair kit, multitool, inner tube (unless the bike is tubeless) and pump.

We can include a helmet and all necessary spares for the trip. Please request helmets at the time of booking.

If you choose to rent a bike from us you are welcome to bring your own saddle with you, and if you would like to use SPD/clipless pedals you will need to bring these with you.

If you choose to bring your own e-bike, please contact us so we can discuss the bike specification and ensure it is suitable for the tour.

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News, Reviews & Stories

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