Sunflower Cycling is located just a "stone's throw" from the majestic Pyrenees mountains. (Granted, you need a good arm.) Aside from offering incredible views, the Pyrenees also serve up some of cycling's most epic climbs: Col du Tourmalet, Col d'Agnes, Superbagne, Plateau de Beille, Col de Port, Col d'Aubisque, Col de Peyresourde, Hautacam and a good deal more. Many Tour de France climbs are an easy hour's drive by vehicle or a pleasant ride on a "bike-friendly" train. (The stop is just down the hill from Sunflower Cycling.) If you wish, you can ride your bike to the mountains, as the pros sometimes do, and then make the climbs; however, the train is an awful nice option that affords time for a leisurely lunch alongside a bubbling brook or a local restaurant. Whether you go it alone or join one of Sunflower Cycling's Epic Tours, the Pyrenees Mountains are crisscrossed with literal roads unto themselves and simply cannot be missed while visiting and riding in this region. (Photo above atop the Superbagneres climb.)

Mid-Ride Lunch

After an hour or two of going vertical, it's nice to relax and refuel. That's Steele Von Hoff, two-time Australian Criterium Champ, enjoying a picnic after having just climbed Plateau de Beille. There are some wonderful restaurants, as well.

Free Roadside Maps

The Ariege region of the Pyrenees is nestled in-between the Mediterranean and the Atlantic. Though not the most popular French region, certainly one of the most beautiful. Hot springs and gold brought the Romans here. Endless winding roads is what brought Rob Bush, American U23 Road and Criterium champion, pictured above. 

Bike-Friendly Trains to Mountains

That's Andrei Krasilnikau, two-time Belarus Road Race Champion, taking it easy on the way to the Pyrenees. The bike-friendly train is a wonderful way to get to the climbs and saves time and energy for making the ascents.