The Vélonat project, supported by the European Union, aims to transform the Central Pyrenees into a major cross-border cycling destination by 2029. With a total budget of €4.5 million, this ambitious program seeks to create an interconnected cycling network for all practices, including mountain biking, gravel, and road cycling, to enhance the region's tourism appeal.
Led by the Department of Hautes-Pyrénées in partnership with 11 French and Spanish stakeholders, Vélonat aims to establish the Central Pyrenees as a recognized cycling destination suitable for all cycling disciplines.
The project is structured around three main axes: the creation of a major cross-border mountain biking route (Grande Traversée VTT connecting Sobrarbe to the Atlantic Ocean), a comprehensive and interconnected cycling offering with numerous developments (signage, trails, cycle paths, service areas), and the promotion of the destination through joint communication tools, events, and promotional videos.
The Vélonat project benefits from 65% EU funding under the Interreg VI-A6 Spain-France-Andorra program (POCTEFA 2021-2027), amounting to nearly €3 million in European funds. This European support enables the development of a coherent cross-border cycling offer and promotes sustainable tourism across the mountain range.
Officially launched on July 1, 2026, the project will continue until May 31, 2029. The first developments will be visible starting in 2027.
