Exclusive Alps Bike Tour

The perfect way to kick off your Alpine journey is by easing into it: start with a leisurely ride through the stunning valleys before tackling the climbs at a gentle pace. Your day begins at the picturesque Annecy Lake, where you’ll spin through the scenic Albertville Valley up to Ugine. Here, you’ll encounter a gentle, yet rewarding ascent to the Col des Aravis, covering 11.7 km with a 4.9% gradient, classified as a Category 2 climb. This climb has frequently been a highlight in the Tour de France and is a standout route on the famed “Route des Grandes Alpes.” After conquering the climb, you’ll be treated to one of the most breathtaking descents in the Alps, leading you to the charming village of La Clusaz. As dusk settles, seize the opportunity to wander around this quaint locale and indulge in the delicious local cuisine.

Distance: 68 km /42 miles – Elevation: 1.812 m /5.945 ft

Your Hotel:  St-Alban Hotel & Spa

Today, tackle the iconic Col de la Colombière, a Tour de France staple, stretching 17.2 km with a 6.7% gradient. Start with a descent into La Petit-Bornand, then climb the challenging 8.8 km Plateau de Glières at an 8.2% gradient. After a technical descent to Thorens-Glières, enjoy some flat terrain to catch your breath before conquering Colombière. Cap it off with a stunning descent into Le Grand-Bornand. In the afternoon, unwind at the hotel pool or visit Les Confins, a hidden gem atop La Clusaz in the Les Aravis mountains. Enjoy!

Distance: 107 km / 66 miles – Elevation: 2.590 m / 8.497 ft

Your Hotel: St-Alban Hotel & Spa

Embark on a cycling experience through the Greater Alps, starting with the stunning 7km Col des Aravis. Enjoy panoramic views of Mont Blanc before descending to tackle the 14.8km Col de Saisies and the epic 20.2km Cormet de Roselend, both renowned for their challenging gradients. Along the way, take in the turquoise waters of Lake de Roselend. Your day ends in the cozy mountain village of La Léchère, where you’ll stay at a welcoming hotel. Unwind in the thermal baths or spa before enjoying a gourmet dinner at the hotel’s popular restaurant.

Distance: 133 km / 83 miles  – Elevation: 3.450 m / 11.319 ft

Your Hotel: Radiana Resort & Spa

Another exhilarating day awaits you, packed with challenging ascents. You’ll first tackle the Col du Télégraphe, a Category 1 climb stretching 12.1 km with an average gradient of 7.3%. Next up is the Col du Galibier, an Hors Catégorie (HC) climb that spans 18.2 km at a 6.8% gradient. These monumental climbs will elevate you to the week’s zenith at over 2,200 meters above sea level. Both of these iconic climbs are staples in almost every Tour de France. After conquering these heights, you’ll enjoy a long and speedy descent nearing Le Clapier. From there, the final breathtaking ascent to the Col de Sarenne with 12.8 km at a 7.4% gradient, will lead you to the renowned ski resort of Alpe d’Huez.

Distance: 103 km / 64 miles – Elevation: 3.730 m / 12.238 ft

Your Hotel: Hotel Les Grandes Rousses

Ascend to the summit of Col de Sarenne and experience a narrow, technical road that offers stunning views of Le Clapier. Your first significant climb awaits here: a 10km stretch with a 7.4% gradient, categorized as Cat 1. After conquering it, you’ll reach the popular resort of Les Deux Alpes. From there, descend into the valley where the legendary Alpe d’Huez lies ahead, featuring a 14.5km climb with a 7.7% gradient, classified as HC (Hors Catégorie). Conquer the 21 iconic switchbacks, each one named after a stage winner in the history of the Tour de France, and feel like a pro cyclist for a day. In the evening, take the time to explore this magical location and its quaint shops before enjoying dinner at the hotel’s Michelin-recommended restaurant. Share the experience with the rest of the heroes on this unforgettable Bike Tour through the French Alps.

Distance: 70 km / 43 miles – Elevation: 2.420 m / 7.940 ft

Your Hotel: Hotel Les Grandes Rousses

On your final day, if you like, go for a a short ride before check-out concluding this unforgettable bike tour in the Alps. Prepare to say goodbye to the stunning scenery, challenging climbs, and picturesque villages and see you soon to your new friends!