With a growing number of requests for this tour in 2008 and 2009, we've decided to offer it in 2010 on a Weekly Basis(except in July).
Needless to say, it is an extraordinary trip that will take you from the shore of Lake Geneva to the world-famous alpine resort of Alpe d'Huez. In between, you'll climb some of France's most famous cols: Colombiere, Aravis, Saisies, Madeleine, Telegraphe, Galibier, and Alpe d'Huez. Note that this tour can also be organized for cycling clubs and private groups on a request basis. For these, we will tailor the itinerary and provide the appropriate support based on the group's fitness level. This tour can be combined with some of the cyclo-sportives in this region such as La Marmotte or the Time-Megeve-Mont-Blanc.
Your Itinerary:
Day 1, Saturday: Arrival in Geneva - Transfer to Anthy
Arrive at Geneva International Airport. We will greet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel located in Anthy by Lake Geneva. Dinner and overnight by the Lake.
Day 2, Sunday: Anthy to Le Grand Bornand (90 km or 55 miles)
The Day's destination is Le Grand Bornand, in the heart of the Aravis mountain range, home of the Reblochon cheese (locals' Powerbar!) where you'll dine and overnight. On your way, you will ride through the very scenic Chablais region (our playground, our office is nearby!). The ride includes one major climb: Col de la Colombiere (1,613 m 4,800 ft). Dinner and overnight in Le Grand Bornand.
Day 3, Monday: Le Grand Bornand to Albertville (78 km or 49 miles)
You'll leave the very picturesque Le Grand Bornand and get on the classic "Route des Grandes Alpes," a mountain route that links Lake Geneva (Thonon-les-Bains) to the Mediterranean Sea (Menton). After climbing Col des Aravis (1,486 m or 4,460 ft.), you'll plunge down to the valley before attacking the second climb of the day: Col des Saisies (1,657 m or 4,970 ft.) Gravity will take you down to Albertville where you'll dine and overnight.
Day 4, Tuesday: Albertville - Valloire (103 km or 65 miles)
Another classic day! You'll do Col de la Madeleine, one of the most mythic classic Tour de France. Although the top culminates at an impressive 2,000 m or 6,000 ft. (the highest so far-until tomorrow!), the northern side is a very enjoyable long and steady climb that has its rewards: an unobstructed panorama over the nearby mountains. Make sure you enjoy it while at the top, sightseeing might be the last thing on your mind when barreling down the twisty 20-km downhill to the Maurienne Valley. After a flat section on the valley floor, you'll ascend the easy Col du Télégraphe (1,566 m or 4,700 ft.) and reach the beautiful resort of Valloire.
Day 5, Wednesday: Valloire - Alpe d'Huez (78 km or 49 miles)
Valloire is located at the foot of the Galibier pass (2,642 m or 7.926 ft.), the mammoth climb of the day. As a result, don't expect much in the way of a warm-up! Riding this legendary climb is magic: graffiti from past Tours will remind you that this road has seen many showdowns since it was first used by Tour de France riders in 1911. You will be rewarded by stunning views over the Meije glacier and by a memorable 40-km (25 miles) descent to Bourg d'Oisans before charging up the 13-km (8 miles) climb to Alpe d'Huez. The time to beat: 37'35", a record held by Marco Pantani since 1995.
Day 6, Thursday: Departure
After breakfast, we will transfer you to Geneva. Extra nights can be arranged.
Member discount:
10% discount for InfoHub customer. Request a free gift certificate.
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
This tour is offered on a GUIDED basis on:
June 26
August 14
Prices include:
5-night accommodations in 2 & 3-star properties (2 nights in
2-star hotels; 3 nights in 3-star hotels)
Daily breakfast
Daily dinner (drinks are not included)
Transfers from Geneva to Anthy on Day 1; from Alpe d'Huez to Geneva on Day 6
Luggage transfers
Marked maps and/or cue sheets, and route notes
Garmin GPS 705 (subject to availability)
Assistance if necessary
All tax and service charges
Chauffeur-driven support vehicle
Water stops (snacks, fruits, water, etc.)
Price Excludes:
Drinks
Expenses of personal nature
Travel insurance
Bike rentals. Racing bikes are available at the rate of 160 euros per bike
Single supplement: 220 euros
Notes:
This tour can be tailored for private groups (minimum size: 6) on any date.
We can arrange extra nights before or after your trip in Geneva
This tour can be combined with our Mythic Climbs: Alps' Alpe d'Huez
Also see tour packages in:
Europe
Switzerland
France
Outdoor: Land Rambler
Bicycle Touring
Sightseeing
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