On the Route des Cols with the convertible
The Route of the Cols is one of the most spectacular convertible routes in Europe. It leads you along the French Pyrenees, from the green foothills of the Atlantic to the sun-drenched Mediterranean coast. This nearly 950-kilometer convertible route combines natural drama with cultural diversity - and is perfectly suited for an intense convertible tour. Being on the road in a convertible here means gliding through narrow serpentine roads, conquering lonely passes, and being rewarded time and again: with grand views, charming villages, and quiet moments in the mountains.
Whether in a convertible or a roadster - the Route of the Cols offers you a driving experience between heaven and earth. Each curve, each pass tells a new story, and each stage brings new landscapes and encounters. An ideal setting for a convertible tour that is equally exciting and relaxing.
Three Stages Through the Pyrenees - From the Ocean to the Mediterranean
The route is divided into three distinct sections - from the Basque west to the Catalan east coast. Each stage of this convertible journey offers its own unique atmosphere and driving challenge. The convertible road trip through the Pyrenees is a true experience, both landscape-wise and culturally.
First Stage: Hendaye - Saint-Jean-de-Luz - Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port - Ainhoa
The tour begins on the Atlantic coast in Hendaye, a charming beach resort with wide beaches and Basque ease. Driving along the coast in the convertible to Saint-Jean-de-Luz is the perfect start: gentle hills, small villages, and the scent of the sea accompany you in the first kilometers. Saint-Jean-de-Luz enchants with its lively harbor, colorful houses, and culinary diversity that perfectly matches the convertible feeling.
Continuing inland, you reach Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, the gateway to the Camino de Santiago, with its historic half-timbered houses and an atmosphere full of tradition and pilgrimage romance. Here, you can especially feel the connection between history and nature.
In Ainhoa, you are greeted by a typical Basque village, which with its picturesque architecture and flower-adorned facades provides a beautiful photo opportunity for your convertible trip. Cruising through the narrow streets in the convertible or roadster brings you closer to the atmosphere of this region.
Second Stage: Laruns - Saint-Étienne-de-Baïgorry - La Mongie - Bagnères-de-Luchon
The second section takes you into the heart of the Pyrenees. From Laruns, you embark on the famous mountain passes, promising curves and highlights for every convertible fan. Saint-Étienne-de-Baïgorry is a typical mountain village, whose rural tranquility offers a strong contrast to the dynamic mountain roads. It is an ideal place to pause for a moment and enjoy nature in its pristine state.
La Mongie, known as a winter sports resort, lies at the foot of the Tourmalet and is a perfect stop to experience the fresh mountain air and the impressive peaks. In the convertible on this route, you feel one with the majestic mountains as the roads wind in endless curves through the landscape.
Bagnères-de-Luchon, the "Queen of the Pyrenees," combines wellness, culture, and alpine hospitality. Here, you can relax after an exciting convertible road trip, visit thermal baths, or stroll through charming streets - a fitting conclusion to the second stage.
Third Stage: Arreau - Ax-les-Thermes - Font-Romeu - Banyuls
The last stage takes you further east through a diverse mountainous world. Arreau, with its historic architecture and vibrant markets, shows you the French mountain culture in all its diversity. Here, the charm of the Pyrenees can be best enjoyed in a convertible.
Ax-les-Thermes lures with hot springs and a friendly atmosphere. Driving in the convertible or roadster along the Route of the Cols through this thermal town is a special experience - the transition from relaxed culture to wild mountain nature is palpable here.
Font-Romeu, a well-known alpine spa resort, offers you wide views and fresh mountain air. The roads here are less traveled and ideal for discovering the landscape in peace with the convertible. The light and the expanse make this route particularly appealing.
Finally, you reach Banyuls on the Mediterranean coast - a place where your convertible road trip finds an unforgettable conclusion. The coastal road, the Mediterranean flair, and the view of the blue sea create a perfect contrast to the mountainous world. Arriving in the convertible on the Route of the Cols here means freedom, enjoyment, and the feeling of having experienced something great.
Tips for Your Convertible Journey on the Route of the Cols
Even in summer, it can get chilly in the high-altitude areas - so bring windproof clothing. The route is technically demanding but well-maintained - perfect for calm, focused driving. Pay attention to fuel and supplies, as some sections lead through remote areas. Allow enough time to explore the landscape on foot as well - many viewpoints or mountain lakes can only be reached by short hikes.
Accommodations are available in almost every larger town along the route - from rustic mountain cabins to charming hotels. It's worth booking early, especially in the peak season.
In the Convertible on the Route of the Cols - A Journey Through the Elements
The Route of the Cols is not just a convertible tour - it is a journey through heights, landscapes, and cultures. Being on the road in a convertible here means embracing the unexpected: fog at the pass, sun in the valley, winding mountain flights, and quiet villages with their own rhythm.
This convertible tour is ideal for all those who love adventure - without wanting to miss out on style, enjoyment, and quality. Whether as a multi-day convertible road trip or an intensive weekend trip: the Route of the Cols is one of the most impressive convertible routes in Europe - and a true gift for all who enjoy driving with all their senses.