Good Men’s Trail by MTB: Stages of the GR 107
If you’re someone who enjoys riding iconic MTB routes, one of the most important you can do is the Good Men’s Trail. This Cathar MTB route is one of the oldest used by the Cathars, also known as “good men,” and it can be completed in different ways, including an adaptation for mountain bikes. If you’re thinking of doing the Cathar route by bike, you should know that you won’t just be undertaking a sporting journey—you’ll also be riding along a route filled with history that allows you to discover the Pyrenees from a different perspective.
The GR 107 by Bike
The GR 107 is also the name used to refer to the Good Men’s Trail. This route includes variants adapted for MTB through paths, forest tracks and cycle-friendly trails that follow the original walking route as closely as possible. Because it includes several high-mountain sections, the experience is not suitable for everyone, but this Pyrenees MTB journey has been adapted so that completing the historic path by bike is a realistic option. What you must keep in mind is that this is a medium-high difficulty route. This means it is designed for cyclists with solid mountain experience due to the elevation gains and irregular surfaces typical of high-altitude terrain. To give you a general idea of what this cultural route by bike can be like, the average time needed to complete it is between 3 and 5 days. The duration will depend on your physical condition, the type of bike you ride and your travel style.
Stages of the Good Men’s Trail by MTB
The stages may vary depending on how long you want each segment to be. Here is one of the most common MTB itineraries, but remember it can change depending on the accommodations you want to visit, the pace you prefer, and of course, your personal preferences: • Stage 1: Queralt – Bagà, approx. 45 km • Stage 2: Bagà – Bellver de Cerdanya, approx. 40 km • Stage 3: Bellver – Porta / Puigcerdà, approx. 50 km • Stage 4: Porta – Mont-Louis (France), approx. 40 km • Stage 5: Mont-Louis – Montségur, approx. 60 km
Difficulty, Elevation Gain and Technical Recommendations
The difficulty of the Good Men’s Trail is medium-high. The main challenge is that the total positive elevation gain of the GR 107 exceeds 5,000 meters. Some sections are more technical, while others are rocky and may require cyclists to walk their bike through certain parts. Regarding terrain, you will ride along well-maintained forest tracks, GR trails and some secondary road sections when crossing valleys. For this kind of mountain bike adventure, we recommend using a full-suspension MTB, as it will help you better absorb irregularities in the terrain.
Accommodation and Services for Cyclists
One of the strengths of the Good Men’s Trail is its infrastructure. You will find many hostels along the route, most of which offer secure bike storage—something essential on a trip like this. Additionally, many hostels have basic tools available in case you need repairs and offer special breakfasts for athletes. A very popular service on this route is luggage transport. Some companies can move your bags from stage to stage so you only need to carry a small backpack while riding. You’ll appreciate this greatly when you encounter technical climbs on Cathar MTB paths. The numerous villages along the way will also provide plenty of options for supplies. Towns such as Bagà offer all kinds of services.
What to See Along the Route: Landscapes, Villages and Cathar Heritage
Many people believe that the fast pace of an MTB prevents you from enjoying the scenic beauty of the GR 107, but this is not true. Montségur Castle is one of the most iconic points on the route. Some cyclists use it as a starting point, others as their destination. Whether you begin or end your trip there, visiting the castle is a must. Along the certified MTB routes, you will pass through various medieval villages. We recommend stopping for a while to admire their medieval layout and rest. These villages have a lot to offer—for example, in Gósol you’ll find a strong connection with the painter Picasso. The scenic beauty of the route peaks when crossing Cadí-Moixeró. This natural park, full of Pyrenean flora and fauna, is ideal for filling your lungs with fresh air and feeling the power of nature. It’s undoubtedly one of the natural treasures of the route and can be enjoyed perfectly by MTB.
Practical Tips for Enjoying the Route by MTB
Before starting the Good Men’s Trail by MTB, we recommend giving your bike a full technical check. Carefully inspect the brakes and suspension—two essential components for safely completing the route. It is also advisable to carry essential spare parts: a puncture repair kit, spare tubes, an extra derailleur hanger… Although many medieval villages offer bike supplies, it’s important to carry your own in case you run into trouble far from the next settlement. The Good Men’s Trail is also walked on foot, so we encourage you to be respectful of pedestrians, always yielding the way, especially in narrow stretches. Lastly, plan your water carefully. Dehydration is a serious issue, especially on a route as long as this journey between Catalonia and Occitania. Bring enough water—at least three liters—and plan refill points ahead of time as carefully as you would plan overnight stays.
The Good Men’s Trail: A Unique Cycle-Touring Experience in the Pyrenees
Ultimately, riding the Good Men’s Trail by MTB is an experience that blends history with adrenaline. It’s a form of active tourism that is hard to forget and offers the chance to experience the majesty of the Pyrenees. Live a true Cathar experience in the Pyrenean valleys and discover much more about this history in an unforgettable trip. If you are looking for speed, technique and deep cultural meaning, the Good Men’s Trail has a lot to offer.
