I had a unique experience this trip in the 5 km. long tunnel through the Pyrenees at Vielha. I have been through a number of tunnels in Spain, Italy, and Pakistan and this was the best- an organised protocol with full security. Congratulations to the Spanish. Cyclists are required to call on the sos box at the entry to the tunnel and someone tells you whether you can go or wait. I was informed that I could go, and one of the two lanes in my direction was exclusively mine. Like all tunnels the noise is extreme but it is a minor complaint.
Now some other experiences. A couple of years ago I was crossing the Pyrénées from Aragon (near Jaca?) back into France. Before I got to the tunnel across I learned that bicycles were not allowed but that there was a van shuttle bus twice a week for cyclists. I only had to wait a day and I was the only cyclist in the van. The driver told me I was the first cyclist she had had in months.
Some tunnels in Spain and Italy have been very scary and I have sometimes been surprised that cycles were permitted. The very very loud noise of lorrys coming up behind, the darkness and only one lane in each direction- all can be almost overpowering.
Another long tunnel in Spain didn’t have the possibility of cars overtaking and after exiting the tunnel there was a long line of cars. I appreciated the friendly salute from the driver of the first car behind me.
In another small tunnel in Spain there were no lights and in the absence of any cars it became completely dark. I couldn’t see one inch in front of me. I had to stop and could only wait for the headlights of a car and the end of the tunnel.
Then there are the tunnels in Pakistan. There were about 5 or 6 consecutive tunnels recently built in upper Hunza. It was fortunate that I had brought a front light with me, otherwise I would not have been able to proceed in the darkness. There wasn’t much traffic and one was very long, but not really very scary.
Below are some GoPro videos.
