Special eclipse, astronomy and electric mountain biking at the Pic du Midi
In summary
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Sports
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Duration3 days
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LevelAdvance
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DestinationArreau / Pyrenees
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AgeFrom the age of 18
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CO₂-Emissions28.59 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages
French
In a few words
Immerse yourself in the heart of the Pyrenees for a unique weekend combining e-mountain biking and astronomy during the total solar eclipse of August 12, 2026, under one of the clearest skies in Europe. Within the International Dark Sky Reserve (IDSR) , explore panoramic trails by e-MTB and experience unforgettable stargazing evenings near the iconic Pic du Midi de Bigorre .
Accompanied by an expert guide , you'll traverse breathtaking landscapes, from ridges to wild valleys, enjoying equipment designed for optimal comfort. After days filled with exploration and moderate exertion, it's time to experience the magic of the night sky . Settled in a lightweight bivouac , far from any light pollution, you'll observe constellations , planets, and nebulae in ideal conditions.
This stay is a total immersion between sport and contemplation , a timeless experience for lovers of wide open spaces and starry nights .
A unique opportunity to observe the total solar eclipse in an extraordinary setting, far from any light pollution!
The highlights
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A unique experience: Electric mountain biking and stargazing under a clear blue sky
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An opportunity to observe the total solar eclipse of August 12, 2026
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Guided tour with an expert mountain biking and astronomy guide
Photos
Sport
Level
Mountain biking and e-mountain biking
In figures
MOUNTAIN BIKING
- Average duration/day: 4h30
- Average distance/day: 24 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 967 m
- Average daily descent: 1200 m
- Predominant type of terrain : Dirt road
Management
Supervision by a qualified mountain bike instructor.
Program
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Ascent and setting up the bivouac
- Activity MOUNTAIN BIKING
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Distance 30 km
- Positive elevation gain 900 m
- Negative elevation 200 m
- Predominant type of terrain Dirt road
- Accommodation Bivouac / Tent
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Your stay begins in the hills above Arreau with a climb towards the Col d'Aspin . You'll follow a panoramic ridge offering breathtaking views of the Pic du Midi . This accessible route allows you to get your bearings while enjoying the scenery.
Upon arrival at the bivouac , you collect your belongings before immersing yourself in stargazing . Using binoculars and a telescope , you discover stars and planets under a clear sky.
Day 1 -
Day of riding, night excursion and overnight stay in a hostel
- Activity MOUNTAIN BIKING
- Duration of the activity 4h
- Distance 20 km
- Positive elevation gain 1000 m
- Negative elevation 1700 m
- Predominant type of terrain Dirt road
- Accommodation Hostel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
This day takes you to the Payolle site, at the gateway to the Aure valley . You cross several mountain passes and walk alongside a lake , in the heart of a landscape marked by a strong pastoral tradition that is still very much present.
In the late afternoon, you'll return to the inn for a relaxing break before dinner. The evening continues with a nighttime e-mountain bike excursion to observe the total solar eclipse occurring before sunset: a chance to witness this natural spectacle in the Pic du Midi International Dark Sky Reserve (RICE), far from any light pollution. A unique experience under the starry sky… and perhaps even the chance to spot a few shooting stars !
Day 2 -
Last day of e-mountain biking
- Activity MOUNTAIN BIKING
- Duration of the activity 4h
- Distance 20 km
- Positive elevation gain 1000 m
- Negative elevation 1700 m
- Predominant type of terrain Dirt road
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
After a good night's sleep , you start the day with breakfast facing the Pic du Midi , perfect for recharging your batteries before your last e- MTB ride.
You'll ride along forest tracks and singletrack trails, giving you the chance to put the skills learned in the previous days into practice. From the inn , you'll begin the descent towards Arreau , but before you get there, a final climb awaits you towards the hidden village of Ardengost , nestled in the heart of nature.
Day 3
Note
The elevation gain and times indicated are estimates and may vary depending on snow conditions and the pace of the participants. The partner agency and your guide reserve the right to modify this program for various reasons such as weather or physical conditions.
Accommodation
Night in a tent or under the stars.
Overnight stay in a mountain inn.
Overnight stay in a mountain inn.
- Single-sex shared dormitory
- Mixed shared dormitory
Access
Travel with peace of mind: we'll take care of transporting your luggage and charging your e-MTB batteries. Your only mission? To fully enjoy the adventure!
Go to the starting point
- Bus: Take line 963 (liO network) which connects Lannemezan station to Arreau (approximately 40 minutes journey, flat fare of €2 ). The stop is located in the centre of the village.
- Taxi: Allow approximately 30 minutes journey time from the station (estimated fare between €60 and €80 depending on the time of day).
Price details
The price includes
- The stay will be supervised by a qualified mountain biking instructor.
- Full board from the evening of Day 1 until the picnic lunch on Day 3
- Accommodation in bivouacs and hostels
- Luggage transport
- The full-suspension electric mountain bike and protective gear
The price does not include
- Transportation to the meeting point
- Personal expenses
- Anything not listed under "Price includes"
Options
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Equipment provided on site
- A full-suspension e-MTB with hydraulic disc brakes in good condition
- The monitor will have a tool kit for any necessary repairs.
Equipment to bring
- Backpack with water bottle (20L minimum)
- Safety equipment in good working order and compliant: helmet, gloves, back protector, elbow pads and knee pads
Clothing to bring
- Clothing suitable for mountain biking, including a rain jacket
The Guillaume team
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- You pay a 30% deposit today to reserve your stay.
- The balance (the remaining 70%) must be paid no later than 30 days before departure.
- ✅ Of an amount greater than €300.
- ✅ Whose departure is in more than 30 days.