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French & Bike
September 2026

When

From the 28th of September to the 2nd of October, 2026

Where

Who for

Level A1+ to B2

Content

15h of French lessons + activities + half board + homestay

Group size limit

12 persons - 2 teachers

Price

Starting from 1590€

Ride, Speak, Live:

The Ultimate French & Cycling Experience

If you’re looking for a new challenge, Bagnères-de-Bigorre is calling your name!

At the foot of the legendary Col du Tourmalet, one of the most iconic climbs in Tour de France history, this is where cycling myths are born. From Octave Lapize to modern-day champions, generations of riders have tested their limits here… now it’s your turn to write your own story.

Nestled in the heart of the Pyrenees, Bagnères-de-Bigorre is not just a cycling paradise, it’s a town with a deep-rooted heritage. Known for its thermal waters since Roman times and its pivotal role in the golden age of Pyrenean cycling, it blends sport, history, and authenticity like nowhere else. Quiet roads, breathtaking passes, and a vibrant local culture make it an ideal playground for both body and mind.

Our immersion program invites you to live French, not just learn it. Through daily interactions, guided conversations, and real-life experiences, you’ll improve naturally while discovering the traditions of the Bigorre region: local markets, artisanal food tastings, regional wines, and encounters with passionate locals. And of course, unforgettable rides through protected natural landscapes, where every climb tells a story. For those who prefer a little extra support, electric bikes are available, making these rides accessible while preserving the full experience.

Far from the crowds, spend a week combining progress and pleasure: 15 hours of expert language coaching, cultural exploration, refined gastronomy, and legendary cycling routes.

 

"More than a trip, it’s an immersion into a way of life shaped by nature, effort, and conviviality"

 

A unique human experience, 100% in French

         Authenticity (The real Southwest)

   🤝 Friendliness (Small groups, sharing)

   🚀 Effectiveness (15 hours of instruction + total immersion)

   🏡 Accommodations in a beautiful Villa

   🍽️ Vibrant and high-quality gastronomy, emphasizing organic and local sourcing

Your program

Immersion program

Day 1 - Sunday

From 5pm (+/-) : Arrival ​

We will welcome you to the gîte and show you to your room.

 

From 7pm : let's get to know each other over an apéro all together! 🧑‍🏫

Host Welcoming Guest

Day 3 - Tuesday

9-12am  : French class​ 🧑‍🏫

12-1pm : lunch at Octave's

 

1-5pm : bike ride 🚴

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Day 5 - Thursday

9-5pm :

bike ride: “Conquering

the Tourmalet” 🚴

Lunch at the Tourmalet with your teacher 🧑‍🏫

 

6-8pm : spa "Aquensis" to relax your muscles ;)

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Day 7 - Saturday

You are not tired and you want more? 

8am-1pm : Descent of the Géant du Tourmalet for the winter season – program coming soon.

Free to join!​

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Day 2 - Monday

9-12am  : French class​ 🧑‍🏫

12-1pm : lunch at Octave's

 

1-5pm : bike ride 🚴

7-9pm : wine tasting at la "Cave à vin" 🧑‍🏫

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Day 4 - Wednesday

9-12am  : French class​ 🧑‍🏫

1-5pm : bike ride 🚴

5-8pm  : gastronomique/ historique tour of the city 🧑‍🏫

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Day 6 - Friday

9-12am  : French class​ 🧑‍🏫

12-1pm : lunch at Octave's

 

1-5pm : bike ride 🚴

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Legend : 

🧑‍🏫time with your teacher : French lesson and/or activities

🚴time with your bike instructor

Activities are subject to change depending on weather conditions

Your teachers

The food!!

Lunch at the "Café Ravito" 

Set in the refined and inspiring atmosphere of Café Ravito, students will enjoy a carefully curated lunch in a place that pays tribute to cycling heritage and the art of living in the Pyrenees.

Beyond its culinary appeal, this unique venue will also host part of the French lessons, offering a comfortable and elegant setting conducive to learning.

Between sessions, participants will be able to relax and recharge with coffee, tea, and gourmet snacks, creating a seamless blend of study, pleasure, and authenticity.

A true experience where language learning meets lifestyle, in a setting designed to inspire.

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Breakfasts & Dinners 

Each day begins with a thoughtfully prepared breakfast (depending on the chosen accommodation), offering a gentle start in line with the region’s art of living.

Evenings are left at your leisure, giving you the freedom to explore Bagnères-de-Bigorre’s local restaurants and culinary scene at your own pace. Here are some recommandations (all tried and tested!) 

On selected occasions, however, dinners become part of the experience, with curated moments such as wine tastings and our guided food tour, where you’ll discover the richness of regional flavors in a convivial and carefully crafted setting.

The accommodation

Steeped in history and quiet elegance, Villa Bonvouloir offers a truly unique place to stay in Bagnères-de-Bigorre.

Once the residence of Count Henry de Bonvouloir, a renowned 19th-century entomologist who welcomed leading scientists of his time, the villa retains the spirit of a refined retreat dedicated to curiosity, nature, and discovery.
 

Each accommodation option invites you to unwind in a serene and rejuvenating setting, immersed in the greenery and Pyrenean charm of Bagnères-de-Bigorre. Blending comfort, simplicity, and a warm sense of hospitality, they provide the perfect place to relax after a day of cycling and cultural exploration, offering an authentic experience where well-being and local character come together.

The villa offers fully comfortable studios (1 double bed) and apartments (two bedrooms with double beds).

Don't hesitate to ask us for a quote if you wish to come as a couple or with friends.

Included activities

Beyond cycling and language immersion, the program includes a selection of refined experiences designed to awaken your senses and deepen your connection to the region. Enjoy a curated wine tasting paired with local specialties, explore the flavors of Bagnères-de-Bigorre through a guided food tour, and unwind and recover after your rides in the soothing atmosphere of a traditional spa.

Each activity is thoughtfully chosen to offer a perfect balance of

discovery, pleasure, and relaxation.

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Spa "Aquensis"

Extend the experience with a moment of pure recovery in a refined spa setting, designed to soothe both body and mind after your rides. 

Move at your own pace between the warmth of the sauna and hammam, the invigorating jets of the pool, and the unique sensory experience of the musical pool. The Nordic bath invites deep relaxation, while the jacuzzi outdoor offers the perfect final touch to release any remaining tension.

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Food Tour

More than a culinary stop, the food tour is an invitation to discover Bagnères-de-Bigorre through its flavors, stories, and local craftsmanship. 

Guided through carefully selected addresses, students will enjoy a convivial tasting experience that highlights regional products and traditions, while naturally practicing French in real-life situations. It is a delicious way to connect language learning with culture, heritage, and the authentic spirit of the Pyrenees.

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Wine tasting

Enjoy a curated wine tasting experience that brings together exceptional local and French wines, selected with the expert guidance of Maxime, who travels across France in search of hidden gems worth sharing.

His passion and knowledge turn each tasting into a true discovery, offering students a refined introduction to the diversity and character of French wine. To complete the experience, carefully chosen local specialties are served alongside the wines, creating a generous moment of sharing that combines flavor, expertise, and regional authenticity.

Description & Pricing 

Weekend des bergers
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Option 1 : program + accommodation - starting from 1590€ (you bring your own bike)

If you wish another type of accommodation or want to share it, let us know in the registration form 

Option 2 : accommodation + bike - starting from  1990€

If you wish another type of accommodation or want to share it, let us know in the registration form 

- 15h of French lessons,​

4 half-days plus one full day to discover the legendary Tour de France routes and the surrounding area with an experienced guide.

- 5 lunches included (prepared by "Maison Octave")

- 3 pedagogical activities included :

  • Local food tour

  • Wine & local products tasting

  • Spa "Aquensis"

- Getting to and from the activities​,

- Option 1 : Independent or shared accommodation in the "Villa Bonvouloir" - half board (breakfast on site/lunch at "Maison Octave"),​

- Option 2Independent or shared accommodation + road bike + helmet (on request)

- A flexibility and adaptation to your needs and objectives,​

- Administration & organization fees,​

- Tea, coffee and “petit gâteaux”!

Excluded

clip-on shoes, cycling shorts, jersey, gloves, and glasses

- Shuttle from and to the airport/train station : price on request

- Shuttle service during the stay (outside of the planned activities) : price on request

- Optional insurance : we strongly advise you to take out insurance covering the duration of your stay in France in order to guarantee a minimum of risks (medical expenses, civil liability, accident and theft).

- Personal expenses

Payment conditions

5-day workshop payment schedule:
Deposit of 40% of the amount at registration. The remaining payment will be due the 28th of August, 2026.

An invoice will be sent to you at that time.

Cancellation policy

The deposit is 100% fully refundable before July 31th, 2026. After that date, the deposit is non refundable.
After September 11th, 2026, the full workshop price is not refundable, but it can be transferred to another person.

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Consult our Booking essentials and the General Terms and Conditions of Sale

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