2023 Tour of Spain
Diverse Spain awaits with extreme landscapes, epic rides and irresistible culture.
Join our 2023 Tour of Spain trip featuring picturesque coastlines, grand accommodation and fabulous food.
14 days
Toulouse, France to Madrid, Spain
Tour Departs
Toulouse, France, September 5, 2023
Tour Finishes
Madrid, Spain, September 18, 2023
Tour Style
Group Size: 20 guests (4 staff)
Rides: Guests are amazed by the quality of the roads in Spain. They are often very smooth surfaces and cities cater for cyclists. We aim for between 80km and 100km a day, but where climbing is involved we may shorten the rides. We always have shorter ride options available for guests.
Challenge Rating: We target seeing the important mountain stages, so our rides reflect riding in the mountains. We offer epic ride extensions for guests wanting more miles and vertical metres.
Accommodation: We stay at 4-star hotels, and Spanish hotels typically have larger than normal rooms. We vary the accommodation throughout to include modern to new hotels as well as refurbished historical buildings.
Trip Suitability
Social to Experienced: This itinerary offers epic challenges with each day centered around a famous climb and extensions available for experienced riders. With vehicle support, you can choose to bypass the extensions and focus on the daily famous climb. A perfect trip for riders of all levels!
Meals Included
All breakfasts are included and meals are included on 7 evenings. We have a farewell lunch at a restaurant before finishing our tour in Madrid.
Tour Inclusions
- Professional and experienced cycling guides
- Travel in air-conditioned vehicles
- Transfers from designated collection and drop-off locations
- All meals (as listed on itineraries)
- Mechanical assistance with your bike
- Ride nutrition (including drinking water, sport powders and bars / muffins and fruit)
- Tour ride jersey and bib-shorts
- Ride files and detailed tour itinerary
Why we Love this Tour
- Travelling with a group of cyclists on carefully designed ride routes that maximise your safety, enjoyment and challenge
- Fabulous Spanish cuisine, including tapas, wine, olives and more
- 4 days in the Pyrenees
- Tackle the legendary mountain climbs of the Pyrenees, including the Tourmalet, Soulor, Hautacam, and Col d’Aubisque.
- Immerse yourself in local culture by visiting the iconic city of Pamplona, famous for its running of the bulls.
- And for the ultimate challenge, conquer the hardest climb in road cycling, the Alto de L’Angliru.
- This trip promises to deliver an unforgettable experience for even the most seasoned cyclist. Don’t miss this opportunity to test your limits and ride some of the most spectacular roads in the world.
- Mechanical and vehicle support for peace of mind
- Minimum number of transfers so that you have more time to ride your bike, watch the race and explore the culture
- Staying at amazing hotels, often riding in and out of the hotel
- Choose from the challenging ride option or the easier ride option each day
Pricing
Price: AUD $8750 (twin share)
Single Supplement: AUD $1200
Note: All trip costs are per person, not including airfare and based on two persons per room. If travelling alone we will match you with a person to share. Alternatively, you may choose to have a room of your own by paying a single supplement.
Bike Hire
Price: AUD $840 (premium bike hire available on request)
Note: It is a requirement of Bikestyle Tours that you have Travel Insurance for your trip
Hosted by local Belgian and former professional cyclist, Eric de Clercq
Share the local roads of Eric de Clercq, the Tour of Flanders typically passes his front door. He can certainly claim home ground advantage. He came very close one year almost being the sole survivor in the breakaway.
Eric’s career of 11 years saw him win 19 victories including a stage win in the Tour of Britain. He is one of the hard men of Belgium. Eric rode for:
- La William-Duvel from 1991-1993
- Collstrop from 1994-2002
You will find Eric a wonderful host as he shares his experiences with professional cycling teams. From racing, to sports director, professional soigneur to hosting team VIP’s during race-day. You will learn an incredible insight into the Spring Classics races, as well as meet some of the riders and managers.
Most of all, Eric is a great guide who cares for your experience and he is a pleasure to spend time with on and off the bike.
Follow the Spanish Tour with the most experienced Tour Operator at Grand Tours
Grand Tours for 27 years
2023 will proudly be our 27th year of organising trips to the Grand tours, making us amongst the most experienced tour operators at Le Veluta.
Scheduled at the back of the season, the Spanish grand tour fosters new talent and gives opportunity to riders seeking retribution from an indifferent season. Mountain stages in every week of the tour often favours the climber. Recently, the Vuelta has created the best racing moments of all grand tours.
The Spanish are fanatical, and fanatical about their cycling. Quiet villages awaken for the passage of the professional peloton.
Our trip finishes in the famous Arts district of Madrid for the final stage.
Cycling Tour following the 2023 Vuelta a Espana
Embark on an unforgettable cycling adventure in France and Spain with Bikestyle Tours. Experience the thrill of the famous climbs and the excitement of the Vuelta a España. With over 27 years of experience, our professional team will guide and support you every step of the way.
As you explore the breathtaking Pyrenees, challenge yourself on these renowned climbs:
- Hautacam – Tackle the challenging slopes and be inspired by its rich history in the Tour de France.
- Col de Trammasel – Enjoy a serene escape with stunning views.
- Col du Tourmalet – Tackle one of the most iconic climbs in France, with a legacy that spans over 80 appearances in the Tour de France.
- Col du Soulor – Brave unpredictable weather as you conquer one of the most iconic mountain passes in the Tour de France.
- Col d’Aubisque – Take in the stunning views on a more gentle climb that serves as a starting point for outdoor adventures, such as the GR10 hiking trail.
- Los Machucos – Push your limits on the steep and gruelling mountain pass in Spain.
- Alto de L’Angliru – Conquer the most feared mountain in the professional peloton, with a view that will take your breath away.
- Alto de la Cubilla – Take on the Spanish equivalent of the Tourmalet.
Join the ranks of legendary riders such as Remco Evenepoel, Primoz Roglich, Alberto Contador, Robert Heras, and Miguel Indurain as you ride the roads that have become part of cycling lore. Get ready for an unforgettable cycling experience.
See 7 key stages of the 2023 Vuelta a Espana
- STAGE 13 – 135km – Formigal to Tourmalet
- STAGE 14 – 161km – Sauveterre de Beam to Larra Belagua
- STAGE 15 – 156km – Pamplona to Lekunberri
- STAGE 17 – 122km – Ribadesella to Angliru
- STAGE 18 – 179km – Pola de Allande to La Cruz de Linares
- STAGE 20 – 208km – Manzanares el Real to Guadarrama
- STAGE 21 – 101km – Madrid Final
Tour of Spain – Daily Itinerary
Bienvenue, Welcome to France
Bienvenue en France!
Your guides will greet you at Toulouse Blagnac Airport at 10.00 am. Toulouse is the perfect starting point for exploring the Pyrenees, South-Western France, and Andorra. Arrive a few days early to enjoy this vibrant city’s fantastic food and tech museums. After a quick airport transfer, we’ll head to the heart of the Pyrenees for a 4-night stay. Get ready for a Pyrenees adventure like no other!
DAILY HIGHLIGHTS
- Meet at Toulouse Blagnac Airport
- Shakedown ride
- Welcome dinner
Today’s ride is a shakedown ride, allowing you to adjust your clocks, test your bikes and importantly yourselves. We will stick to the valley as we have plenty of climbing to come in the following days.
Hautacam and Luz Ardiden
Today in the Pyrenees, we have multiple ride options to choose from. Our first stop is the Hautacam offering a stunning view, this is followed by a climb to the Col de Tramassel for an unforgettable vista of the surrounding landscape. Then, we will head to Luz Ardiden ski station for lunch. After lunch, it’s all downhill back to the hotel and we’ll arrive in time to watch stage 11 on TV. Join us for a festive dinner together and share stories of your incredible day exploring two of the Pyrenees’ most prized peaks
DAILY HIGHLIGHTS
- Hautacam
- Luz Ardiden
This morning, we will take on the legendary Tour de France climb – Hautacam. Located just a stone’s throw from our hotel, the 15 km climb features an average gradient of 7.9%. The constantly changing gradients add to the difficulty of this iconic ascent. For those looking for an extra challenge, we will then head up the valley to conquer the climb to Luz Ardiden ski station.
Discover the Mighty Tourmalet
Embark on an unforgettable ride up one of the most iconic mountains in the cycling world – the Tourmalet. Get a taste of what it’s like to ride the Tour de France route without the pressure of road closures. Surrounded by the excitement of fans and camper vans, this experience is not to be missed.
Starting from our hotel, we will follow the bike path to Lourdes and make our way to Bagnères-de-Bigorre for the start of the climb. The real ascent begins at Sainte-Marie-de-Campan, where we will tackle 17 km to reach the summit. Take a break at the top café, filled with cycling memorabilia and boasting the best views in the Pyrenees. After a well-deserved rest, we will descend down to Luz St Sauveur and continue our downhill journey back to the hotel to celebrate a fantastic day on the bike.
DAILY HIGHLIGHTS
Depart from the hotel for a 40 km ride to the base of the iconic Tourmalet. For guests seeking a shorter option, start the ride from Sainte-Marie-de-Campan, where a steady 17 km climb awaits to reach the summit. Enjoy an exhilarating 40 km downhill back to the hotel from the top of the Tourmalet.
The Vuelta on the Tourmalet
Join us for a chance to witness the Vuelta a Espana as it tackles the Col du Tourmalet. The peloton faces a challenging day with 4000m of climbing over 135 km, ending on the iconic mountain. Start the ride by heading south from the hotel on a converted rail line to Pierrefitte-Nestalas, then up the Gorge du Luz to Luz St Sauveur. Take a break in Luz and then head to the Tourmalet to experience the excitement and party atmosphere. Return to the hotel after the stage finish, for dinner and celebration.
DAILY HIGHLIGHTS
Ride up the valley road to Luz St Sauveur, where the Col du Tourmalet begins. Climb as far up the mountain as you wish to watch the race, then return to the hotel. Expect many riders on the Tourmalet today.
Col du Soulor and Aubisque – stage finish
Before leaving the Pyrenees, enjoy one more beautiful bike ride over Col du Soulor and Col d’Aubisque. Start from the hotel and ride through small villages until reaching Arrens-Marsous, where switchbacks and steep sections remind you that you are in the mountains. Stop at the cafe at the top of Col du Soulor for refreshments and views, then continue to Aubisque along the Corniche du Cirque du Litor with stunning scenery. Take a break and take some photos at the top of Col d’Aubisque, then enjoy the descent to Arudy. Meet the bus and head to today’s stage finish in Larra Belagua, then we will drive to Pamplona where we will be staying for the next 2 nights.
DAILY HIGHLIGHTS
- Col du Soulor - Col d’Aubisque,
- Stage 14 Finish in Larra Belagua
Ride to Col d’Aubisque via Col du Soulor. The initial climb out of the village is challenging, but it eases before the gradient increases again in the next village. Reach the peak of Col du Soulor with gentle slopes and continue to the summit of Aubisque. Enjoy a 30km descent after plenty of climbing today.
Stage Start in Pamplona
Join us today for an exclusive experience of the Vuelta at the Stage Start in Pamplona! Just a short distance from our hotel, this is the perfect chance to see your favourite riders up close and capture memories with team buses and sign-on photos. Ride with us to Lekunberri to witness the finish of today’s stage and see the peloton twice. Afterwards, we will return to our hotel by bus, relax and explore Pamplona’s nightlife. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity!
DAILY HIGHLIGHTS
- See the Vuelta start in Pamplona and finish in Lekunberri.
- Stage start in Pamplona
- Ride the finishing loop around Lekunberri
Today we offer various ride options for all levels. Take the relaxed route and join us for a short ride from the hotel to the stage start in Pamplona. Afterwards, we will head to Lekunberri where you have the option to tackle the 25km finishing circuit, including the challenging Puerto de Zuarrarrate climb, which the Vuelta will race on today.
Los Machucos
Discover the steep climbs that the Vuelta is known for, including the legendary Los Machucos. Join us as we travel by bus from Pamplona to Solares before we embark on a challenging ride up one of the steepest climbs in professional road cycling. Take on the torturous Los Machucos or opt for the shorter ascent of Puerto de Alisas. After the ride, we will enjoy a luxurious dinner together at our hotel as you share your tales of tackling the brutish climb.
DAILY HIGHLIGHTS
- Ride Los Machucos and Puerto de Alisas
The Los Machucos climb is known for its challenging and steep terrain. Its profile varies, but it includes steep gradients in sections of up to 26% that will test the limits of even the most experienced cyclists. The gradient drops off the higher you go, but it is generally considered one of the most difficult climbs in professional road cycling.
Our easier alternative will stay a little closer to sea level.
Tackle Angliru
Discover the infamous Angliru climb and the art of cider pouring in Oviedo. Join us as we travel to Oviedo, known for its medieval old town and traditional cider-pouring method. Before indulging in some local cider, we will tackle the final climb of stage 17 of the Vuelta, the challenging Angliru. Described as “extremely tough, almost inhuman” it is one of the most feared climbs in the professional peloton.
In 2002 David Millar famously withdrew from the Vuelta in protest of the climb’s inclusion, climbing off just short of the summit. Angliru will certainly test your limits. After safely descending the mountain, join us for dinner and share your stories from the day. This will be an unforgettable experience to tell your friends about!
DAILY HIGHLIGHTS
- Tackle Alto de L'Angliru
The Angliru is a unique 13 km climb starting in La Vega. Its reputation comes from the challenging final 6 km with an average gradient of 13%. Be prepared for ramps with inclines exceeding 20%. If the top is not in your sights, take your time and turn back whenever you feel like it. We’ll reunite with you in La Vega.
Watch the pros take on Alto de L’Angliru
Today we return to the Vuelta with a chance to give your body a well-deserved break. Observe the world’s best climbers tackle the formidable Alto de L’Angliru. No need to rise early, as the final climb is conveniently located near our hotel. We’ll cycle to the base of the Angliru and find a prime viewing spot to witness the race. For those feeling energetic, join the throngs of fans on the steep ramps near the summit.
Once the stage concludes, you have the option to return to the hotel by bus or bike. Use the evening to explore the vibrant city of Oviedo and recharge for tomorrow’s adventures.
DAILY HIGHLIGHTS
- Vuelta a Espana on Alto de L'Angliru
We’ll set out from the hotel with a leisurely 20 km warm-up ride to the base of the Angliru. You have the freedom to tackle as much or as little of the climb as you prefer. Afterwards, you can return to Oviedo either by bike or bus.
Ride the finishing circuits before the pros
Today’s Vuelta route offers multiple laps of finishing circuits, and we have the chance to ride one before the pros. We’ll depart from the hotel by bike and travel 20 km to the stage finish. You can choose to relax or ride the final circuit before the race. After our ride, we’ll relax over lunch and watch a predicted breakaway battle for a stage victory. The day ends with a return to the hotel for our last night in Oviedo.
DAILY HIGHLIGHTS
- See stage 18 of the Vuelta
- Ride the La Cruz de Linares mountain pass
Today’s ride is a chance for recovery after the previous climbing efforts. We’ll take an easy ride to observe today’s stage. For those looking to add more elevation to their Strava account, we can join the finishing circuit and tackle the La Cruz de Linares mountain pass.
Spain’s version of the Tourmalet
Today we venture to one of Asturias’ most picturesque climbs, the Alto de la Cubilla, often compared to the iconic Col du Tourmalet. For those looking to add distance and elevation to their trip, there’s the option to ride from the hotel to the start of the climb. Alternatively, we’ll take you closer to the base for a longer climb. After reaching the summit, we’ll descend to meet the bus and head to the next hotel in preparation for the final stages of the Vuelta and the grand finale in Madrid.
DAILY HIGHLIGHTS
- Ride Alto de la Cubilla - Spanish Tourmalet
The longer option for today starts with a 60km bike ride from the hotel to the base of the Alto de la Cubilla, a climb that mimics the Tourmalet with over 20 km, 2000m elevation, and an average gradient of 7%. For those seeking a less strenuous day, options are available to suit your needs, whether it’s a flat route or just downhills.
Stage finish in Guadarrama
Today marks our last ride of the Tour of Spain tour. We’ll start with a short bus transfer to the tranquil roads of Las Lagunillas park outside Madrid, where we’ll leisurely pedal before catching the thrilling sprint finish in Guadarrama. After the stage, we’ll transfer to Madrid, the final destination of our tour.
DAILY HIGHLIGHTS
- Stage finish in Guadarrama
Today’s ride will take us on tranquil roads through the scenic Las Lagunillas park, with more descending than climbing.
Final Stage in Madrid
Experience the ultimate finale to the Vuelta with the final stage in Madrid. Begin with a nourishing breakfast and take time to explore the city’s art galleries, gift shops, and plazas as they come to life.
Be a part of the thrilling kermesse-style final stage that takes place in front of Madrid’s famous monuments. The high-speed circuit, set against the backdrop of twilight, is guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience. Walk the circuit to soak in all its different parts, the crowds are sure to flock to the occasion.
After the final presentations, indulge in the city’s renowned dining scene with options for every taste. From romantic dinners to a night out with friends, Madrid’s vibrant nightlife offers endless opportunities to make your last night unforgettable. Get ready to embrace the energy and excitement of Madrid!
DAILY HIGHLIGHTS
- Experience Madrid
- Climax of the 2023 Vuelta a España
No ride today – Sightseeing around Madrid
Adios, Farewell from Spain
Today is our last day together. This morning we say farewell at the hotel and you are free to make your own way to either the airport or the nearby train station. We are within walking distance of the Atocha train station where suburban and intercity trains depart. The hotel will be able to arrange a shuttle to the airport or another hotel upon your request if you prefer.
Safe travels.
DAILY HIGHLIGHTS
- Enjoy Madrid before departure
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Why Book with Bikestyle Tours?
A COVID-Safe plan
- All staff and guests must complete a pre-travel questionnaire prior to the start of the trip
- Bikestyle Tours complies with the COVID requirements of the local authorities (Tourism and Accommodation, Bike Tours); such as controls for social distancing, cleaning and hygiene, vehicle transport
- Check your departure and return requirements for your country of residence
Are Trips Guaranteed Departures?
We make every effort to guarantee departures to give you peace of mind that once you’ve booked your trip – you’re going! We do not cancel trips due to insufficient numbers leaving you stranded.
