It’s been a hugely satisfying journey over the last couple of years, we’ve had such a heartfelt response to our videos from all over the world that I wanted to try and create an experience that helps bring riders even closer to the mountains, giving them one-to-one guidance, support and sharing our knowledge wherever we can to help you become more accomplished in the mountains, whilst providing a really personal and unique experience with The Col Collective that will live with you forever.

Bringing the mountains to life beyond our videos and continuing our ethos to inspire and educate, we’re proud to announce the launch of The Col Collective - Cycling Tours! Starting this summer we’ll be hosting a select number of cycling tours for riders of all abilities with full support from The Col Collective!

From beginners through to the more experienced mountain goats amongst you we’ve put a selection of cycling experiences together to cater for all. From the Grand Cols that are etched into the history of cycling, the Col du Tourmalet, Aubisque, Hautacam, Peyresourde, Luz Ardiden, Aspin and many more await, to the Undiscovered Pyrénées, a week of exploration and intrigue going deep into landscapes of rugged wilderness and untamed beauty that are so often overlooked and will leave you in awe and wonder at their serenity.

Perhaps you’re inspired by the cols but have little or no experience on this terrain. No problem. Our Introduction to the Mountains could be the perfect entry, with one-to-one guidance providing real world tips, techniques and support, both on and off the bike, to help you to the summit and back down again safely.

Capturing the beauty of the mountains and the colours and character of the Tour as it passes through the Pyrénées, our Tour de France Experience combines peaceful yet challenging ride days with the spectacle of the world’s biggest bike race. Ride the climbs and then watch the pros battle it out on the same slopes the very next day is a surreal experience that often has us pinching ourselves at just how magical the mountains can be.

If you’re happy to set your own pace and agenda then our Explorer and Explorer Mini escapes allow you to target the cols that matter most to you with expert route planning, help and advice from The Col Collective. Col conquering before lunch followed by a relaxed afternoon by the pool? It’s your call. That’s the beauty of our Explorer options, you’re in control and we’re here to make sure you get the most from the mountains and your time.

Located in the heart of the Hautes Pyénées, The Col Collective HQ is the perfect base for cyclists looking to tackle the most prestigious hors catégorie climbs, gentler rolling roads or even flatter farmlands that give the area so much charm and character. With five beautifully appointed en-suite guest rooms, heated pool, mountain views towards the Pic du Midi and Montaigu to help soothe your soul and an exclusive Col Collective mountain essentials kit bag and equipment worth over €875 we’re honoured to welcome you to the mountains.

For more details visit thecolcollective.com/cycling-tours.

Thank you all for your continued support. Ride safe and we hope to see you on the cols!

Mike Cotty