A Charity Cycle to Lourdes
The HCPT Cycle is a remarkable charity bike ride spanning over 900 km. Held every two years over the course of seven days, the event culminates in the Pyrenean town of Lourdes on Good Friday, just in time to welcome HCPT groups from around the world arriving over the Easter weekend. Since its inaugural edition in 2011, the HCPT Cycle has grown into the organization's largest fundraising event.
The Route
The first HCPT Cycle in 2011 featured 12 cyclists and 8 support crew, allowing for a more intimate route through smaller destinations. Beginning in Chartres, the journey passed through Brou, Chenenceaux, Montmorillon, St. Junien, Libourne, and Mont-de-Marsan before reaching Lourdes. A poignant stop at the memorial town of Oradour-sur-Glane was also included.
As participation grew, adjustments were made to accommodate the increasing number of riders. By 2015, the event had settled on its preferred route, starting at the Palace of Versailles beneath the equestrian statue of Louis XIV. From there, cyclists embark on a breathtaking journey south, winding through rolling hills, picturesque farmland, and charming villages while steering clear of major urban centers.
The route meanders through the Loire Valley, with its renowned vineyards and storybook castles, and crosses the tranquil waterways of the Marais Poitevin, often called "Green Venice." It then continues into Bordeaux’s prestigious wine country, offering views of its pristine vineyards and elegant châteaux. Riders enjoy peaceful, shaded stretches through the Landes Forest, the largest man-made forest in Europe, before reaching the foothills of the Pyrenees. As Lourdes approaches, breathtaking mountain vistas provide a stunning finale to the journey.
Notable stops along the way include Chartres, Le Mans, Saumur, Niort, Libourne, and Mont-de-Marsan, each offering its own unique charm and history.
2021: A Virtual Challenge
Since its inception, the HCPT Cycle has taken place every two years—except for 2021, when the COVID-19 pandemic made the event impossible. Instead, a virtual ride to Lourdes was organized, allowing participants to log their own cycling distances online throughout Lent, collectively covering the full distance at their own pace.