This is one of those classic routes I assumed everyone knew about, but talking to a friend about his forthcoming trip to the Pyrenees, it became clear that I was wrong (no surprise). I thought it best to share it with him – and now with you!

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Jaca is a fabulous town nestled on the edge of the plains of Aragon at the foot of the Spanish Pyrenees. This route heads straight up into the high stuff, crossing into France over the Col du Somport (not through the tunnel). There then follows a series of lovely French passes – some of them well-known, others less so – before crossing back into Spain.

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It is possible to shorten the route, heading directly back to Jaca from the border… but where's the fun in that? Much better to ride one of the best sections of the legendary N260 before looping back to base, dropping out of the mountains for a final sprint across the plains. It's a cracking ride to have up your sleeve – a real winner!