Pyrenees Motorcycle Tour: Barcelona to San Sebastián

We pick you up at Barcelona airport and take you to the hotel. After a briefing on the motorcycles and itinerary, we head to a welcome dinner in the old town. Meet the other riders over a mix of modern and classic Mediterranean cuisine.

Barcelona is one of Europe’s most fascinating cities. Gaudí’s Art Nouveau buildings blend with medieval streets and squares. Explore the historic center before the ride begins.

We leave Barcelona and cruise along the Costa Brava — Catalonia’s legendary rocky coast. Hidden coves and dramatic cliffs line the route. After a highway stretch, the road turns winding and brilliant for riding.

We stop in the coastal town of Calella and the medieval village of Pals. Then we ride through the Spanish Tuscany to Cadaqués and Cap de Creus — the easternmost point of mainland Spain. Spectacular roads wind through the rugged coast to the Monasterio de Sant Pere.

We end the day in Figueres, home of the famous Dalí Museum.

We make a stop at the Salvador Dalí Museum. Dalí designed this building himself in his hometown. The collection of surrealist works and the unique architecture with eggs and a dome are an art highlight.

We continue to the picturesque town of Besalú. Then we cross the volcanic area of Olot. The Garrotxa Volcanic Natural Park features extinct volcanoes and lush green nature. The first foothills of the Pyrenees appear. Winding mountain roads take us to Puigcerdà, a charming town that sets the stage for the mountain adventures ahead.

We cross into France almost unnoticed and ride the legendary Col de Puymorens to the border with Andorra. The Port d’Envalira — the highest paved pass in Europe — opens the gateway to Andorra, nestled among the highest Pyrenean peaks.

We continue on remote side roads and historic smuggling routes back into Spain. The idyllic Vall d’Aneu valley sits surrounded by imposing mountain formations. The Port de la Bonaigua pass offers views of the Aigüestortes mountain massif.

We arrive in Vielha for a relaxing evening. Traditional architecture and mountain village charm welcome us.

The day of the great French passes. We follow the legendary trails of the Tour de France across the central Pyrenees. Thousands of curves await on one of Europe’s finest motorcycle roads.

We tackle three famous cols: the Col de Peyresourde with its steep climbs and views, the Col du Tourmalet at 2,115 meters (the highest paved pass in the French Pyrenees), and the Col d’Aubisque with its beauty and challenging curves.

We ride back into Spain. The Rio Gallego guides us through the valley to Jaca — a historic mountain town with medieval charm and panoramic views.

We ride through the valleys of Hecho, Ansó, and Belagua. Over the Col St. Martin into France, then on small side roads through the Arbouty forest and over the Puerto de Larrau back into Spain.

We cross the Irati forests — one of Europe’s largest and most beautiful beech and oak forests. Back in France, we reach St. Jean-Pied-de-Port, the official starting point of the Camino de Santiago.

We follow part of the pilgrim route over Roncesvalles into Pamplona — the fortress city famous for its bull run and historic old town.

We cross into France and ride winding back roads through the Basque Country. Mountains, dense forests, and charming villages mark this region. Each curve brings us closer to San Sebastián on the Atlantic coast.

The afternoon is free. Enjoy La Concha beach with its golden sand and clear water. Or explore the old town’s winding alleys. In the evening, sample world-famous pintxos in traditional tapas bars, paired with Txakoli — the refreshing local white wine.

We leave the coast and ride inland to the Bardenas Reales — the largest desert in Spain. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve looks like Death Valley. Sandy plains, rock formations, and table mountains rise from the barren earth.

After exploring the desert, we continue to Sos del Rey Católico. This medieval village sits on a hilltop surrounded by walls. It was the birthplace of King Ferdinand II of Aragon. Steep streets, historic buildings, and sweeping views make it a gem of Spanish history.

A long ride through the central Pyrenees. Mountain roads loop through peaks as the landscape turns increasingly Mediterranean. The scent of pine forests and lemon trees fills the air.

Before reaching Barcelona, we visit Montserrat — a natural wonder with sharp rocks and dramatic peaks. The Montserrat monastery sits high on the steep slopes. It draws pilgrims, nature lovers, and adventurers alike. After this final stop, we roll into Barcelona.

Today it's time to say goodbye. We will take you to the airport, where you will board your return flight - but the unforgettable impressions of this motorcycle trip will stay with you for a long time. The winding passes, the breathtaking landscapes, and the cultural experiences will remain forever in your memory. As a small keepsake, we present you with our farewell gift before you embark on your journey home with many good memories. We hope to welcome you again soon on one of our next adventure tours! Until next time!! ;-)