HCPT Cycle 2025

Versailles to Lourdes

12th - 18th April

The HCPT Cycle 2025 promises to be an unforgettable adventure for all participants, combining physical challenge, breathtaking scenery, and a meaningful cause. This epic cycling journey will begin in the historic city of Versailles on Saturday, 12th April 2025, and conclude in the spiritual town of Lourdes on Friday, 18th April 2025. Spanning over 900km, the route will test endurance, determination, and camaraderie as riders traverse France over seven days.

Overnight Stops

Participants will make their way through some of France’s most iconic towns and landscapes, with overnight stops at:

Chartres, home to the world-famous cathedral.
Le Mans, renowned for its motorsport history.
Saumur, nestled in the heart of the Loire Valley with its stunning châteaux.
Niort, a charming town known for its medieval architecture.
Libourne, a gateway to Bordeaux’s prestigious wine region.
Mont-de-Marsan,, a vibrant town with a rich cultural heritage.

The longest stretch will demand a ride of over 180km in a single day, testing even the most seasoned cyclists.

Scenery

Cyclists will experience the diverse beauty of the French countryside. Leaving Versaille sees you cycling through rolling hills and farmland dotted with quaint villages and historical sites. You will head South through the Loire valley with it's vinyards and fairy-tale castles. You pass through the Marais Poitevin, a serene marshland often called "Green Venice", before reaching the Bordeaux wine country with it's immaculate vinyards and elegant châteaux. Peaceful shady stretches welcome you as you ride through the Landes Forest, Europes largest man-made forest before you reach the foothills of the Pyrenees and the stunning mountain vista that welcome you as you approach Lourdes.

Whether you're drawn by the challenge, the scenery, or the chance to support a meaningful cause, the HCPT Cycle 2025 will be a journey to remember.

Support the HCPT Cycle

Day One

Versailles to Chartres

72.3km // 616M

Saturday 12th April

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Winding through the heart of the French countryside, the journey from Versailles to Chartres blends history, nature, and charm. Starting from the grandeur of Versailles, with its elegant boulevards and the iconic palace, the route quickly transitions into tranquil suburban areas and lush farmland. As you pedal along, you're surrounded by rolling fields, peaceful forests, and picturesque villages with stone houses and ancient churches. The gentle undulations of the terrain make for a rewarding ride, with moments of challenge balanced by stretches of pure relaxation. Approaching Chartres, the breathtaking sight of the cathedral rising above the horizon serves as a beacon, guiding you toward the historic town. With its mix of natural beauty and cultural landmarks, this ride offers a perfect blend of serenity and inspiration for cyclists.

Day Two

Chartres to Le Mans

128.4km // 742m

Sunday 13th April

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Immersing you deeper into the idyllic landscapes of northern France, the route from Chartres to Le Mans offers a peaceful yet invigorating ride. Leaving Chartres, with its stunning cathedral behind, the route quickly immerses you in the rolling fields and farmland typical of the region. Golden wheat fields, vibrant green pastures, and the occasional orchard paint the scenery, punctuated by charming villages where time seems to stand still. The terrain undulates gently, providing a mix of steady climbs and smooth descents, perfect for maintaining a satisfying rhythm. Small rivers and streams wind through the countryside, and quiet country roads ensure a tranquil journey. As you approach Le Mans, the rich history of the city begins to reveal itself, with its medieval architecture and vibrant energy serving as a fitting reward for your efforts on this picturesque route.

Day Three

Le Mans to Saumur

125.3km // 425m

Monday 14th April

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Exploring the scenic Loire Valley region, the ride from Le Mans to Saumur promises a journey through history and nature. Departing Le Mans, the route takes you through rolling countryside, dotted with vineyards, orchards, and golden fields that stretch toward the horizon. The terrain is a mix of gentle hills and flat stretches, making for an enjoyable ride with varied scenery. Along the way, you'll pass through quaint villages and historic towns, many with stone houses, local markets, and inviting cafés perfect for a rest stop. The route often follows quiet country roads and, as you near Saumur, the Loire River comes into view, its shimmering waters adding to the charm. The sight of Saumur’s fairy-tale château perched above the town is a breathtaking finale, marking the end of a picturesque and rewarding cycling adventure.

Day Four

Saumur to Niort

138km // 863m

Tuesday 15th April

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Connecting the Loire Valley with the lush landscapes of Poitou-Charentes, the route from Saumur to Niort showcases western France’s diversity. Departing Saumur, with its stunning château and the shimmering Loire River, the route winds through fertile vineyards, sunflower fields, and peaceful woodlands. The terrain is a mix of rolling hills and flat stretches, offering both challenges and relaxing sections. Small villages with Romanesque churches, stone houses, and local markets provide delightful spots to pause and soak in the ambiance. As you move southward, the landscape becomes greener and flatter, characterized by meadows, winding streams, and occasional marshlands. Approaching Niort, the medieval town's towers and the serene Sèvre Niortaise River welcome you, setting the stage for the enchanting Marais Poitevin just beyond. This route is a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural richness, making for a truly memorable ride.

Day Five

Niort to Libourne

181.7km // 862m

Wednesday 16th April

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From the lush wetlands of the Marais Poitevin to Bordeaux’s renowned vineyards, this journey offers a captivating transition. Leaving Niort, you’ll pedal through the peaceful canals and green pastures of the "Green Venice," a magical start to your journey. As you head further south, the landscape shifts to gently rolling hills, dotted with fields of crops, orchards, and small, sleepy villages with Romanesque churches and charming stone cottages. Quiet country roads and well-maintained cycling paths make for a serene ride, with plenty of opportunities to stop at local markets or roadside cafés. Approaching Libourne, the scenery transforms into iconic vineyard-covered hills, where rows of grapevines stretch endlessly under the golden light. The town itself, nestled along the Dordogne River, welcomes you with its historic charm and connection to the world-famous Bordeaux wine region—a fitting finale to a scenic and varied route.

Day Six

Libourne to Mont-de-Marsan

146.1km // 514m

Thursday 17th April

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Blending the elegance of Bordeaux’s vineyards with the tranquility of the Landes, this route offers a scenic ride through southwestern France. Departing Libourne, you’ll traverse undulating hills blanketed with vineyards and dotted with châteaux, immersing yourself in the world of Bordeaux wine country. As you move south, the landscape begins to flatten, transitioning into sprawling pine forests and quiet countryside roads characteristic of the Landes. Small, picturesque villages with half-timbered houses and inviting bakeries make for ideal rest stops along the way. The ride is peaceful, with little traffic and a soothing rhythm as you pass through this rural paradise. Arriving in Mont-de-Marsan, known for its rich Gascon heritage, you’re greeted by the charming town’s medieval bridges, riverside promenades, and relaxed atmosphere—a perfect reward after a day’s ride through this serene and diverse region.

Day Seven

Mont-de-Marsan to Lourdes

120.7km // 945m

Friday 18th April

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Transitioning from the serene plains of the Landes to the dramatic foothills of the Pyrenees, this ride is nothing short of breathtaking. Starting in Mont-de-Marsan, you’ll ride through a landscape of lush pine forests, open meadows, and quiet rural roads, enjoying the tranquil ambiance of southwestern France. As you head south, the terrain begins to gently rise, with occasional rolling hills offering a preview of the climbs to come. Picturesque villages with terracotta roofs and historic churches provide charming spots to rest and refuel. The scenery becomes increasingly stunning as the Pyrenees come into view, their rugged peaks forming a majestic backdrop. The final stretch into Lourdes is both challenging and exhilarating, as you wind through valleys and ascend gentle inclines. Arriving in Lourdes, with its iconic basilica and spiritual energy, is a truly rewarding experience, marking the end of an unforgettable ride through diverse and inspiring landscapes.