Self-Guided Alps Haute-Savoie Bike Tour – Level 3

Kick off your Alpine adventure with a gentle warm-up through the picturesque valleys, setting the stage for a crescendo of climbs. Your journey begins alongside the stunning Annecy Lake, taking you through the Albertville Valley until you reach Ugine. From there, you’ll tackle a serene yet rewarding ascent to the south side of the Col des Aravis. Stretching for 11.7km with a 4.9% gradient, this Category 2 climb is a Tour de France regular and a highlight on the “Route des Grandes Alpes.” Your effort is rewarded with one of the Alps’ most scenic descents, leading you to La Clusaz, your base for the coming days as you continue to master the cols of the Alps.

Distance: 68 km / 42 miles – Elevation: 1.845 m / 6.040 ft

Your Hotel:  St-Alban Hotel & Spa

Today, brace yourself for an epic cycling day featuring one of the Tour de France’s most iconic climbs: the Col de la Colombière. Begin with a descent into the picturesque valley of La Petit-Bornand before taking on the challenging ascent up Plateau de Glières. After a technical descent through Thorens-Glières, catch your breath on some flat terrain, then it’s time to tackle the legendary Col de la Colombière. A breathtaking descent will deliver you to Le Grand-Bornand, where the afternoon is yours. Whether you choose to unwind by the hotel pool, explore local shops, or retreat to the tranquil haven of Les Confins in La Clusaz, nestled amid the Les Aravis mountains, you’ll have earned every moment of relaxation.

Distance: 107 km / 66 miles – Elevation: 2.694 m / 8.839 ft

Your Hotel: St-Alban Hotel & Spa

Kick off your day with an invigorating climb up the north side of Col des Aravis, a 7km stretch with a 6.2% gradient. Upon reaching the summit, marvel at the majestic vistas of Mont Blanc before continuing through a technical descent to the village of Flumet, framed by awe-inspiring scenery. Next, conquer the Col de l’Epine, a 6.2km challenge with a 7.4% incline, before tackling the iconic Col de la Croix Fry, a Tour de France favorite featuring an 11km stretch with a 7.2% gradient. Revel in the breathtaking landscapes as you ascend. Celebrate your achievements with a restful meal at a mountaintop eatery before a swift, picturesque descent to La Clusaz. As this is your final evening in the village, savor the local culinary delights and toast to your cycling feats with a glass of traditional Génépi. Santé!

Distance: 84 km / 52 miles – Elevation: 2.480 m / 5.136 ft

Your Hotel: St-Alban Hotel & Spa

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