Routes over Pyrenees in April

[mountaingoat]

Hello,

I'm planning my first big tour from St Malo to Seville this April (yes not much time) and was wondering if anyone had any tips on routes over the Pyrenees this time of year and any route advice in general. I've been told that col du Pourtalet or the Port de Larrau may be passable with a bit of luck or to play it safe and take the Col d'Ibardin, any ideas or alternatives very much appreciated!

 

[Lyn]

Hi there

Not sure if it's too late but you might want to check out this col planner: http://www.pyractif....iles/index.html
Lists the various cols and what to expect.

Climbbybike is good too for the Pyrenees: http://www.climbbybi...ntainchainID=92

I hope to have more stuff on the Pyrenees on my site in the coming months, but obviously that'll be too late for your trip, though I do already have a lot of stuff on Brittany, St-Malo etc.

It'd be great to hear how your ride goes and which route you take.

Cheers
Lyn.

 

[dellzeqq]

I've ridden all the big Pyrennees cols in (late) April, going west to east, and again in July. April was fine, although the meltwater produced spectacular roadside torrents which were frightening, but July was completely, miserably wet and cold.

So you take a chance......

 

[asterix]

In June last year I was attacked by a snow storm at the top Tourmalet (west to east). It started as rain, then sleet then snow. After several cups of tea/coffee (can only remember it was hot) the descent was interesting. There were 18 of us and most had no mudguards so the road spray simply blinded them and they needed to stop. They laughed at my mudguards in Hendaye; they weren't laughing then. In fact it rained every single day of our 5 days.. eeh it were looverly..