atkinsonguy

We will be driving from Barcelona to Lourdes in early June 2014. Google maps plots 2 routes that are about the same mileage and take the same time.

The first route is via A-2/C-53/C-26/N-230/N125/A64 through Balaguer & Vielha.

The second is via C-16/E-9/N-20/D919/A64 through Puigcerdà.

Any recommendations as which route to drive would be appreciated.

Robert2533

The driving time is about the same, but the Val d'Aran is very beautiful in June, and if you haven't been there, now is your chance. Either way, I highly recommend spending the night somewhere along the way instead of doing the drive in one day.

PalenQ

the Puigcerda route I know is really scenic - up and thru the Pyrenees but at a low-level crossing to La Tour de Carol - slight detour takes you to Andorra - then down nice valleys to Fpix - a neat old town for a stop - I've done this by train and it was sweet - roads pretty much follow the train line.

There may be more scenic routes but this is nice -

tower

The route through Vielha takes in some of the Tour de France passes..I would choose that way as the Pyrenees in spring are outstanding. Lourdes will be packed wall to wall. We skipped it when we came across the mobs..so now I still have a bad knee! Good thing I didn't throw my trusty cane away.

Michael

You could always use www.viamichelin.com and specify a scenic route.

Robert2533

Sure, as if someone from Via Michelin has actually ever driving a scenic route through the Pyrenees.

Michael

<i>Via Michelin has actually ever driving a scenic route </i>

No different than the roads marked as scenic on the Michelin maps, and they usually are.