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How does payment work?
We ask all customers to pay a deposit (usually £500/$800/€650) when they book, which confirms their reservation. The balance is due 60 days before departure – we’ll get in touch to remind you when it’s time. If you book less than 60 days before departure, we’ll usually ask you to pay the full trip price upfront.
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Am I strong enough for the trip?
All our trips are physically demanding, but some are harder than others. Cent Cols Challenges are the toughest challenge. Our guides will support every rider to go beyond their usual level of riding, but you should be able to spend up to 12 hours in the saddle for multiple days.
France
W. Pyrénées Cent Cols Challenge
100 cols, 10 days – a unique journey that tests body and spirit.
16th - 27th September 2019
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If I absolutely had to name my favourite region to ride in, I would have to confess particular fondness of the Pyrenees, and to be precise, the Western Pyrenees. Where the Basque Country meets Iraty, the luscious green landscape is criss-crossed with single track roads that lead to open, barren plateaux, with gradients to give even the most committed climber food for thought. The rural charm, the modest architecture, the chiming cowbells, the gushing chorus of running water in roadside streams; all of this combines to create a near sensory overload. I could go on, but you don’t have the time... if you want more praise for the Pyrenees, you know where to find me.
– Phil Deeker
Cent Cols Challenge founder
Single occupancy — €4,200 per person
Double occupancy — €3,500 per person
Start Location
SAN SEBASTIAN
End Location
SAN SEBASTIAN
Av. Daily Distance
200 KM
Av. Daily Elevation
4,500 M
Days
13
Difficulty
5/5
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Who is it for?
The Cent Cols Challenge is the brainchild of endurance rider Phil Deeker: his determination, commitment to riding and will to explore has created one of the ultimate tests of what is possible on a road bike. Cent Cols Challenges take place across Europe, criss-crossing entire mountain ranges to combine the classic routes and climbs from the Grand Tours with lesser-known backcountry gems.
All trips include
- Expert planning and guide support from guides and vehicles
- Pre-trip discounts on Rapha apparel
- Unique routes
- Top-level mechanics
Flights and travel insurance are not included.
How Hard is it?
Because of the distances, and the huge physical and psychological challenge, the Cent Cols are for the strongest and most experienced riders. On most days riders should expect at least 8-10 hours in the saddle, and to be self-sufficient for long periods of time. The remoteness of the terrain also means that accommodation and food are less luxurious than on Rapha’s other trips. However, Phil Deeker and the Rapha team of guides, mechanics and soigneurs take care of all logistics and everything riders need, letting you focus your mind and legs on the cols. It is usual that some riders don’t complete the parcours. But, thanks to the stunning settings and the camaraderie, and possibly to reserves they didn’t know they had, riders often find they rise to the demands of the trip and take their riding to a new level.
All Cent Cols Challenges include
- All meals
- On-road food
Double occupancy as standard
FAQ
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How does payment work?
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Am I strong enough for the trip?
