Etape 2008 training - Auberge de l'Arac

Auberge de l'Arac

Auberge de l'Arac
Castet d'Aleu
09320 Aleu
Ariège-Pyrénées
France
Tel +33(0)561968715
aubergepyrenees@orange.fr

Etape Training Weekends

What is it? Aimed at those who don't have the luxury of taking significant time off work in order to pursue their cycling training, the Etape Training Weekends offered at the Auberge de l'Arac provide participants with the chance to ride some Pyrenean cols before the Etape on July 23rd. Encompassing the Tourmalet (weather permitting!) and Plateau de Beille, as well as other cols local to the Auberge, this 3 night break is the perfect opportunity to assess how well your Etape preparation is going as well as to get your legs (and your heart!) used to riding in the mountains.

Who is it for? Predominately for those taking part in the Etape, these weekends are also for those who want to get a taste of what the Etape entails, perhaps with the view to taking part in 2010.

What are the benefits? Talk to anyone who took part in the 2007 Etape and managed to get over the finish line, and they will tell you the value of riding some cols before you tackle the Etape. Although this year's course is significantly less arduous, it still shouldn't be taken lightly and proper preparation is essential. By staying at the Auberge de l'Arac you will have the chance to ride some Pyrenean cols with a guide at your side and thus gain a major psychological advantage before the big day itself. The mental and physical benefits of such preparation are invaluable.

Accommodation? Because we keep group sizes small, everyone is accommodated in their own room in the Auberge in a choice of either en-suite accommodation or, for those on a budget, rooms with showers and sinks but shared toilets.

What's included?

• 3 night's accommodation in the Auberge de l'Arac
• 3 breakfasts
• 3 evening meals (drinks not included)
• Airport transfers from and to Toulouse
• Guided support on 2 rides
• Maps and route plans
• After ride refreshments
• Free kit-washing service
• Access to bike workshop facilities
• Secure bike storage

All you have to do is make sure you have enough money to cover lunch – between €10 and €15 per day.

We also strongly suggest that you have appropriate insurance for an activity holiday which includes cycling and advocate wearing a helmet when out on the bike.

When?

The Etape Training Weekends are available anytime between late April and late June 2009, arriving on a Thursday and departing on a Sunday. Group sizes are limited to 8 maximum, 2 minimum. Simply contact us with your travel plans and we will let you know if there are any spaces available.

If you wish to come and train at the Auberge outside of these dates or for a longer period, please contact us.

Cost: From €325 per person