Gravel Bike /MTB. Val d'Aran - Pyrenees: Vall de Toran: Les | Pista Portet | Honeria | Canejan | Les

Challenging trail through the practically unspoilt valley of Toran, where tourism has barely left a mark and the small hamlets still retain their centuries-old character. The magnificent fir and beech forest on the south-facing side of Toran is quite spectacular. The views over the villages of Les and Bossòst from Canejan, with the Maladeta massif in the background, are magnificent.

Besides the village of Les, you can enjoy good food in different places along the trail: Refugio de la Honeria, Sant Joan de Toran or Canejan.

The starting point of the route is at the Camin Reiau, found on leaving the village of Les towards Bossòst, just next to the football pitch. Technically it is not difficult, but its difference in height over 30-plus kilometres means that cyclists should have a good level of fitness.

Take the Portet trail that skirts the foot of the Via Ferrata of Les and head up to the country lane. At 1.5 km from the starting point is a spectacular viewing point overlooking the village of Les and its surroundings. At km 7, the lane turns into a forest road that continues to the Refugio de la Honeria, at km 21.5. After a short stretch of road to the hamlet of Porcingles, take the Cau track and cycle on the flat until the village of Canejan. Both this track and the Còsta track between Canejan and Pontaut are two stunning examples of well-preserved historical Aranese thoroughfares, with cobblestones and dry stone walls, the perfect backdrop for enjoying the ancient culture and spectacular scenery found in this area.

Take care after Pontaut, because you’ll be on the N-230 main road for just over a kilometre and there is usually quite a bit of traffic. At the Bausen junction, turn left onto the Carretera de la Lana, which is then a flat ride back to Les. Cycle through the village and you’ll be back at the starting point of the route.

This coincides with much of Route 3 (Bordius), and is essentially Route 2 without the singletrack descent to Pontaut, which would be inappropriate for a Gravel Bike.

Asphalt: 33%, Gravel 63%, Trail 4%