2014 Catalogue

Solid Rides at a Solid Pace

The CMI Group, under the label CMI Tours, offers cycling trips for cycling enthusiasts and serious

athletes. Too many training camps and cycling trips in have become tourist focused and not offering the

“real thing” in terms of serious quality time in the saddle. We offer more cycling focused trips for

people who want a proper cycling experience.

This of course also includes an experience of culture, scenery and food that will make you never want to leave! We are offering serious cycling trips in and around the mountains of France covering well known peaks such as the beast known as the Tourmalet, the stunning Col d’ Aspin, the Horquette D’Ansizan (ridden many times in the Tour and home to many local Pyrenean animals) and the mighty Aubisque to

name but a few . We are not limited to France however and also run regular early-season trips to Spain, and run private trips other countries and events.

A time of year that suits you

Trips are already planned and can be run at a time that suits you and your group, or they can be

custom designed by talking to our staff about the best possible route planning to suit your needs. If

you are interested in a trip based around an event this can also be arranged. There are options to

stay in one single location to discover an area fully and focus on riding, as well as possibilities to

move to different locations and expand your trip to different areas.

Feel free to contact us on cmicycling@gmail.com to discuss your trips, needs and desires.

Our Trips:

Walled Cities Page 4

Pyrenees Discovery Page 8

#trainInSpain Page 12

Mountains Pro Training Page 16

Pro Guide for a day Page 20

Walled Cities

Walled Cities: Riding, relaxing and history

Location: St Antonin, South of France

Emphasis: Riding and relaxing

Dates: May, June, September

Meals: Breakfast and dinner

Trip Size: 4 - 12 people

Price: 1999.00 Euro (Per Person)

Located in the South of France, in an area known for fruit, wine and

old castles, we will base ourselves out of a luxurious and spacious

renovated old stone farm house for our week of riding. Our base

offers us 6 comfortable bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 TV/sitting

areas, a large well equipped kitchen as well as an outdoor

kitchenette with BBQ, a poole table and swimming pool. From our

accomodation we can ride to numerous old walled cities, through

countless vinyards and past sunflower fields. After our rides we

can relax by the pool, fire up the BBQ with a beer or glass of local

wine. Evenings can be spent eating at the big outside dining table

as the sun sets over the hills in the distance. If you want to have a day away from the bike, there are

plenty of hikes available right from our front door. The area provides plenty of history and culture, as

well as some of the best bike riding we have found anywhere in the world. We do not do twin room

sharing on this trip, making it an exclusive vacation for groups of 6 individuals (or 6 couples). The

stunning views, remarkably quiet roads and peaceful accomodation will make this a trip to remember.

Trip details:

Day 1 Arrival: 40-60km ride

We will pick you up at the Toulouse-Blagnac airport, or meet you and direct you to our

accommodation if you choose to drive or rent a car. We will get settled in, and go for a short

introductory ride to loosen up the legs after your travels.

Day 2: 75km Penne

The medieval castle of Penne was built on a rocky spur in the Gorges de

l’Aveyron, making it one of the most stunning views and constructions in the

area. The small town around the base of the rocky spur consists of many

little houses and gardens, whereas the top, the castle itself, is currently a

archeological site. Our ride today will take us to the castle of Penne, then

we will in a loop through to town of Caylus before returning to our house

with a drink and a swim.

Day 3: 72km Cordes and Vaour

Our ride today will take us to breathtaking town of Cordes sur Ciel. You may have

seen pictures of this town as it is surprisingly common to open a photography book

and see this interesting construction, often sticking up above a layer of fluffy

clouds. Cordes is another medieval, Cathar town build on a steep hill. The top

provides many great views as well as a number of cafés, shops and restaurants. If

you fancy a challenge you can attempt to ride up the steep cobbled climb.

Although only 500m long, it averages 15% and has sections of 24%. After Cordes

we will ride uphill to the little town of Vaour, before descending the Aveyron

gorges back home to St Antonin.

Day 4: 100km “Gaillacois” Vineyards

Our ride today will take us east into the vinyards of Gaillac. This

will be a rolling ride, taking you through a variety of different

terrains and views. Following the course of the 2011 Tour de

France we will through the walled city of Castelneau de

Montmiral before dropping into Gaillac town itself. From here

we will ride through the Vineyards on our way back home.

Day 5: 95km Laguepie

The little town of Laguepie will be our main destination for today. Built at the

confluence of the Aveyron and Viaur rivers, and dominated by the medieval

chateau of Laguepie, this little town is traditionally French. Our ride will take us

through Laguepie, then head to the town of Monteils before meandering our way

back home along the river on our return journey home. The evening can be spent

by the pool with a glass of Gaillac, or we can head into St Antonin for a drink in

one of the local cafés.

Day 6: 90km Bruniquel and Salvagnac

After a relaxing breakfast, we will embark on our ride to the cliff top chateau of

Bruniquel. Build in the 12th

century on an earlier fortress said to have been built in

the 6th

century, Bruniquel is one of two Cathar chateaux which dominates the valley.

We will ride up to Bruniquel to have a look at the medieval gateways and narrow

streets before continuing our ride to the little town of Salvagnac. Salvagnac is built

on top of a hill overlooking the Gaillac vineyards. On a clear day you can see all the

way down to the Pyrenees from here. After our ride we will return home for our

final evening together.

Day 7: Departure

It’s been a great week riding and we have seen many of the area’s best walled and hilltop cites. We will transfer you

to the airport in Toulouse or for your return trip.

Pyrenees Discovery

Pyrenees Discovery:

Riding, eating, discovering the Pyrenees National Park.

Location: Pyrenees, France

Emphasis: Riding and relaxing

Dates: May-October

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner included

Trips Size: 2-10 people max. Depending on availability and dates.

Price: 1499.00 Euro (per person based on twin share)

Our base for this trip is a traditional Pyrenean house in a quiet

village in the heart of the Pyrenees National Park. This is the

ideal location from which to start our stunning and challenging

rides, as well as being a relaxing location for an evening BBQ and

beer with friends, or a quiet afternoon read by the river. Daily

rides will take you through some stunning mountain scenery

along peaceful roads and on some of the Tour de France

mountains you’ve seen on TV. There is a Bar-Restaurant within

walking distance, and a large yard in

which to relax after your ride. Part

way up the Port de l’Hers climb which starts outside our front door is the

bucolic Etang de l’Hers lake where you can go for hikes, a calming walk

around the lake, or sit and have lunch and a drink at the lake-side café.

A selection of local and regional wines from the Midi-Pyrenees area such as

the Corbiere, Gaillacois and Madiran will be available to you in the evenings

along with some local dishes and cuisine, such as duck and Cassoulet along

with the usual BBQ specials such as Toulouse Sausage.

Trip itinerary:

Day 1 Arrival: 40-60km ride

We will pick you up at the Toulouse-Blagnac or Carcassonne airport, or meet you at

our base if you choose to drive or rent a car. We will get settled in, and go for a short

introduction ride if we have time.

Day 2: 75km Col de Port, Port l’Hers

After a relaxed breakfast in the court-yard, we’ll head out on a loop that will take us over

the Col de Port climb that is frequently used in the Tour de France. We will start easy as the

Col de Port starts almost from our front door. The climb is 12km at 4.8% average. After

descending the other side we will then climb to Port de l’Hers (11km at 7%). We can stop

and have a coffee or beer at the lake on the way back down to the house.

The evening will be spent enjoying a BBQ, some fresh salad and the inevitable plate of

pasta, along with local wine form the regional terroire.

Day 3: 125km or 65km Port de l’Hers, Plateau de Beille, Col de Port

Today we have 2 options. We can either do a long ride of 125km that will take us up

the Port de l’Hers in the opposite direction to yesterday, then up the famous Plateau

de Beille climb, before coming back down the Plateau de Beille and returning home

via the Col de Port (again in the opposite direction to yesterday) making it 125km

round trip with 3 big climbs. Or we can take the van and drive to Tarascon-Sur-

Ariege and ride over the lesser known Gleizo climb (6km at 6%) on the way to the

Plateau de Beille, then returning to the van for a total of 65km.

This evening we will walk to the restaurant at the edge of town and enjoy a well

deserved meal of local cuisine.

Day 4: Rest day 40-50k easy

It’s already been a hard couple of days. Today we will take our time over

breakfast, go for a short easy ride for a coffee, or take the day off and relax, walk

around the village, read a book or go to a nearby town for lunch in the town-

square watching the world go by.

Day 5: 70km North East Massat

We will take a break from the big mountains today and do a rolling loop around the

area. We are still in the heart of the Pyrenees however, so although we may not be

going up any famous climbs, it is still plenty hilly.

Day 6: 70km (or 145km) Col de Latrape, col de Saraillé

Today is another mountainous day. We will leave the house by bike and ride the

Tour de France regular, the Col de Latrape and the Col de Saraillé which drops us

back at the house. There is also the option of doing a crazy 145km day with 5

climbs; a real Tour de France day. See us for details on this option.

Tonight’s peaceful evening meal with a couple glasses of wine will have been

well deserved.

Day 7: Departure

It’s been a good solid week of riding and relaxing. We will transfer you to the airport in Toulouse or Carcasonne for

your return trip

#trainInSpain

Pre Season Training Camp in Spain

Train in Spain: Riding and training in beautiful places

Location: Javea, Spain

Emphasis: Riding Skills, Training and fitness.

Price: 1500 Euro (per person, based on twin share)

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner included

Trip Size: 26 people max.

Our base for this trip is a spacious Spanish villa

surrounded by orange trees. On the outskirts

of the sea front town of Javea, Spain our villa

is a peaceful and quiet place to base ourselves.

From here we will start our daily rides into the

backcountry and the hills of the area. Popular

among Pro cyclists and teams for its quiet

roads and wide variety of terrain, the riding is

challenging but the climbs are not as steep

and hard as the Pyrenees or the Alps, making

this the ideal location for some early season

training. At the end of the day you can relax by the pool with a drink and make the most of the facilities

to wash your cycling kit ready for the next day’s adventures, before we sit down for a well deserved

evening meal. Our rides will gradually increase in distance and difficulty as the week progresses. One

all important recovery day is planned mid week so that you can better enjoy the

last couple of big day’s on the bike.

Training sessions can be provided for individuals, groups, clubs and teams with

an emphasis on specifics ranging from preparing for an event; preparing for a

full season; how to race at the top level; racing tactics as well as group building

sessions; nutrition; climbing; group riding skills and descending.

Trip details:

Day 1 Arrival: 45km ride

You may choose to arrive by personal car, rental car or by plane. The nearest

airports are Valencia and Alicante. If you or your group need a transfer from the

airport this can be arranged. The first thing to do is build your bike. Depending on

your arrival time, there should be time for an easy ride to shake out the legs.

Day 2: 85km to Calpe

After a relaxed breakfast in the court-yard, we’ll head out on a loop that will take is

to the town of Calpe. Calpe is another hotbed for Pro cyclists and teams in the early

season. The town is a popular summer tourist destination full of hotels and

beachside residences. After passing through Calpe we will loop around and return to

our Villa via the backcountry.

Day 3: 120km or 70km Costa Blanca backcountry

Our ride today will take us away from the coast and into the rolling hills of the Costa

Blanca backcountry. Both the long and short ride will start off in the same direction,

with the short ride turning a little earlier. Our two ride options today are 120km and

70km.

Day 4: 145km or 70km Hills and Coast

After two solid days on the bike you will now have an idea of the terrain and style of

riding this area has to offer. If you are feeling up for a challenge you may want to take

our longer ride today that will see you cover 145km and 2500m of climbing. If your legs

are feeling a little tired, there is a just as beautiful but somewhat shorter 70km option

that will enable you to save your legs a little in preparation for the rest of the week.

Day 5: 25-45km Rest day

We will take a break today and go for a short and easy ride to the beach or for lunch

in a café. It is important to rest and recover from the last few days. A sleep in, a look

around town in the area and you’ll be ready for the next two days or riding.

Day 6: 150km or 80km Valenciana loop

Today is our “Queen Stage”. We will head up the coast a little before climbing over the

mountains into the depths of the back country. This a challenging loop with plenty of

climbing on quiet roads, and the great views are sure to be a pleasant distraction. The

long ride will cover 150km with 2300m of climbing. The shorter route follows a similar

path and takes you through the stunning orange groves of the area for a total of 80

beautiful Kilometers.

Day 7: 105km or 60km Pro Training Ground

Today is our last day. We will head to the longer hills slightly inland from Calpe. It is

common to see individual Pro riders or entire teams on this loop. Argos Shimano has a

permanent base nearby and you will often see the riders doing efforts on this climbs, or

small groups of 2 or 3 Pros from around Europe who are in the area to get some warm

weather training with friends between their heavy racing schedule. A café at the top of

one of the hills is a great place to stop and have a bite to eat with a great view ov the

nearby hills plunging into the Mediterainean seas.

Day 8: Departure

It’s been a good solid week of training and it is time to head home and put everything you have learned into effect.

Again if you need transportation for yourself or your group to a nearby airport this can be arranged.

Mountains

Pro Training

Pro Training Trip: Training in beautiful places

Location: Pyrenees, France

Emphasis: Riding Skills, Training and fitness.

Dates: May-October

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner included

Trips Size: 2-7 people

Price: 1700 Euro (per person)

Our base for this trip is a traditional Pyrenean house in a quiet

village in the heart of the Pyrenees National Park. This is the

ideal location from which to start our stunning and

challenging training rides, as well as being a relaxing location

for an evening BBQ and beer with friends. Daily rides will take

you through some stunning mountain scenery along peaceful

roads and on some of the Tour de France mountains you’ve

seen on TV. Daily sessions will help you improve your riding

skills as well as your fitness. Learn from experienced riders

how to improve and get the most out of yourself. Whether

you are looking to improve on your riding and fitness,

preparing for a cyclo-sportif, or a youngster looking to turn

Pro, this trip will help you progress.

Training sessions can be provided for individuals, groups, clubs

and teams with an emphasis on specifics ranging from preparing

for an event; preparing for a full season; how to race at the top

level; racing tactics as well as group building sessions; nutrition;

climbing etc.

Racing: There may also be the opportunity to get in some racing

or a cyclo-sportif during your visit. Contact us for dates, details

and possibilities.

Trip details:

Day 1 Arrival: 40-60km ride

We will pick you up at the Toulouse-Blagnac or Carcassonne airport, or meet you

at our base if you choose to drive or rent a car. We will get settled in, and go for a

short introduction ride if we have time.

Day 2: 75km Col de Port, Port de l’Hers

After a relaxed breakfast in the court-yard, we’ll head out on a loop that will take us

over the Col de Port climb that is frequently used in the Tour de France. We will start

easy as the Col de Port starts almost from our front door. The climb is 12km at 4.8%

average. After descending the other side we will then climb the Port de l’Hers (11km at

7%). We can stop and have a coffee at the lake part way down the descent on the way

back to the house.

Day 3: 125km Port de l’Hers, Plateau de Beille, Col de Port

We will do a long ride of 125km that will take us up the Port de l’Hers in the

opposite direction to yesterday, then up the famous Plateau de Beille climb,

(15km at 8%) before coming back down the Plateau de Beille and returning home

via the Col de Port (again in the opposite direction to yesterday) making it 125km

round trip with 3 big climbs.

Day 4: Rest day 40-50k easy

It’s already been a hard couple of days. Today we will take our time over breakfast,

go for a short easy ride for a coffee and work on group riding skills. The afternoon

can be spent enjoying the lake above the town of Massat, walking around the

village, or resting and recovering.

Day 5: 70km North East Massat

We will take a break from the big mountains today and do a rolling loop around the

area. We are still in the heart of the Pyrenees however, so although we may not be

going up any famous climbs, it is still plenty hilly.

Day 6: 145km Col de Saraillé, Col de La Core, Col de Latrape,

Catchaudégué

Today is our our “Queen Stage”. We will leave the house by bike and ride

over the Col de Saraillé and onto the Col de la Core and Col de Latrape,

both these climbs are Tour de France regulars. From here we will ride

over the lesser known Col du Catchaudégué before returning back over

the Col de Saraillé in the opposite direction to this morning; which drops

us back at the house. This is a full 5 climb ride and is a real Tour de France

day!

Day 7: Departure

It’s been a good solid week of training and it is time to head home and put everything you have learned into effect.

We will transfer you to the airport in Toulouse or Carcassonne for your return trip

Pro Guide

Pro Guide

Location: Pyrenees, Tarn, Worldwide

Dates: According to your needs

Group Sizes: 2-15 people

Price: 150 Euro (per Day)

75 euro (Half a day in the Tarn)

Need a guide to show you around? If you don't want to think about which way to go, or if you want to do the best rides on the best roads, enabling you to focus on the pleasure of riding; whether you are an individual or a tour company, give us a call! "Sim" Green has been riding for decades. He started racing Mountain bikes and focused the majority of his career on road racing while dabbling in CycloCross and trials on the way. His cycling career of international racing on the Pro circuit of UCI Continental Tour has enabled him to ride in some of the most varied and unexpected countries in the world.

He has been guiding cycling enthusiasts since the early 2000s and loves to share his passion for the sport. He has worked and guided for numerous companies and groups, from individuals to Official TdF Tour Operators. Born in France and having lived in many countries including the USA and Australia, Sim knows what to look for in a bike ride.

You are an Individual: Rates are 150 Euro Per day if you want a guide anywhere in the Midi Pyrenees Region. 75 Euro for half a day in the Department of the Tarn (France) Outides of these areas, transportation fees and accommodation are extra.

You are a Tour Company: Rates are 150 Euro per day. All transportation fees, food, accommodation and extra requirements are extra.