French Alps Cycling Holiday

Cycle Lake Annecy to Alpe d’Huez to Mont Ventoux

We firmly believe here at ECT we have discovered the ultimate French Alps cycling holiday taking in the mightiest and most spectacular cols, the most favoured and legendary climbs of le tour, and quite simply the best patisseries and cafés this glorious mountain range has to offer…

Now it’s your turn to ride in the tracks of legends…

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The Alps are home to some of the most legendary cycling climbs in Europe, making this tour a true bucket-list ride.

From the beautiful shores of lake Annecy – the backdrop to the greatest and most spectacular time trials of the Tour de France, onwards to the dizzying hairpins of le lacets montvernier and to the mythical slopes le Croix de Fer and Alpe d’Huez – the scene of some of the greatest and memorable battles in the history of the le tour before riding onwards to arguably the most iconic mountain and spiritual home of cycling – the sleeping giant of Provence… Mont Ventoux!

Total Distance: 450km
Total Ascent: 9,446m
Max Alt: 2,068m
Difficulty Grade: 4/5
5 NightsAvailable for private group booking now!
5***** ReviewsGuide Price: £995 [16 pax]
This alpine route reflects the approach outlined in our guide to guided and supported cycling holidays in France, combining iconic mountain climbs with professional on-tour support.

Alps Cycling Holiday

Cols Conquered

Day One
Lacets de Montvernier…Length: 3.24km, Height start: 504m, Height top: 781m, Ascent: 277m, Average grade: 8.5%

Day Two
Col de la Croix de Fer…Length: 30km, Height start: 546m, Height top: 2068m, Ascent: 1522m, Average grade: 5.1%
Alpe d’Huez…Length: 13.2km, Height start: 744m, Height top: 1815m, Ascent: 1071m, Average grade: 8.1%

Day Three
Col d’Ornon…Length: 11.11km, Height start: 730m, Height top: 1373m, Ascent: 643m, Average grade: 5.8%
Col de Parquetout…Length: 7.4km, Height start: 736m, Height top: 1382m, Ascent: 646m, Average grade: 8.7%
Col du Festre…Length: 22.1km, Height start: 794m, Height top: 1442m, Ascent: 648m, Average grade: 2.9%

Day Four
Col de Macuègne…Length: 9.19km, Height start: 604m, Height top: 1074m, Ascent: 470m, Average grade: 5.1%
Mont Ventoux…Length: 25.7km, Height start: 760m, Height top: 1912m, Ascent: 1152m, Average grade: 4.5 %

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Cycle through the Alps to beautiful Provence

Itinerary

Arrival Day > Arrive Geneva airport [GVA] – transfer to Annecy hotel. Times of recommended flights given at time of application. Prepare bikes before trip briefing and possible leg sharpener before evening dinner.

Day One > ⛰ Annecy to Saint Jean de Maurienne – 114km +1149m

Day Two > ⛰⛰ Saint Jean de Maurienne to Bourg d’Oisans – 100km +3165m

Day Three > ⛰⛰⛰ Bourg d’Oisans to Serres – 110km +2304m

Day Four > ⛰⛰ Serres to Malaucene – 118km +2567m

Departure Day > Pack down bikes before transfer for flight home.  ✈ Return Home

Option to stay a further day to complete the world famous Ventoux Cinglés Challenge
Use 'Our Rides' menu to see web page and event details

Speak to us at time of application to arrange

Included

✅ 3/4**** Bed & Breakfast Accommodation (four nights)
✅ Cycle Guide(s)
✅ Full Vehicle Support including Driver/Mechanic
✅ First Aiders
✅ Luggage Transfer
✅ Incredible scenery riding beautiful marble smooth roads

Not Included

Flight, Lunches, Evening Meals, Airport Transfers

Logistics

Recommended flight information will be given on your application.To help us help you, It is important you notify us of any extraordinary travel arrangements you may have that prevents you from arriving at the recommended times.
Your personal bags will be carried by the support vehicle throughout the event.
We strongly ask your bikes to be transported by bike bags (semi-rigid/soft). Please do not arrive to the event with rigid bike travel boxes. Support vehicles will have limited space and unable stow large solid bike boxes as well as all luggage and equipment through the event.
Please contact us with any questions regarding flight transport of your bike, we will be more than happy to discuss this further with you.

Climate & Kit

We can expect warm, sunny weather, however we should expect slight temperature drop and cool conditions on the mountains (800m+) – Remember to bring layers – not heavy coverings.
This is a road bike tour. Your bike should be well maintained and in good running order with suitable ‘road gears’ and brakes.
A full kit list will be issued in your ‘Joining Instructions’ document after your application. We will be glad to discuss any aspect of kit and your bike with you, please call us anytime with any questions.

The legendary Alpine climbs demand a lightweight bike, appropriate gearing, and stable descending performance. Selecting the right machine is essential for success and enjoyment. Our guide to the best bike for European cycling holidays explains exactly what to look for before tackling these famous climbs.

Fitness & Training

This is a level 4 cycle event. You will be capable of riding comfortably upto 140km in a day and/or used to riding distances upto 100km over hilly terrain – minmum. If you have any doubt as to your fitness regarding participation in this event please give us a cal and we will be more than happy to chat with you.
Click here for Training Plan

Route Map

Route Profile

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Better organisation than Team Sky, Jason and Giles where awesome. Every thing ran so smoothly all we had to do was ride!
Richard 2018

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French Alps cycling holiday

Available for private group bookings!

FAQs for Alps cycling holidays

Is this tour right for me?

Ideal for cyclists who want to ride confidently in unfamiliar regions, this tour includes professional route leadership and daily support. It’s a popular choice for international travellers. This guide explains how guided cycling holidays compare with self-guided alternatives.

What makes the French Alps Cycling Holiday by European Cycling Tours unique?

The French Alps Cycling Holiday offers an exceptional experience by taking in the most spectacular cols, legendary Tour de France climbs, and the best patisseries and cafés in the mountain range, all supported by professional guides and on-tour support.

What is the itinerary of the French Alps Cycling Holiday?

The holiday begins with arrival at Geneva airport and transfer to Annecy, then cycling through iconic climbs such as Lacets de Montvernier, Col de la Croix de Fer, Alpe d’Huez, and Mont Ventoux, with daily routes ranging from 114km to 118km and significant elevation gains.

What is included in the French Alps Cycling Holiday package?

The package includes 3/4-star bed and breakfast accommodation for four nights, cycle guides, full vehicle support with driver and mechanic, first aiders, luggage transfer, and the scenic roads of the Alps.

What should I bring for the French Alps Cycling Holiday?

Participants should bring layered clothing suitable for warm weather and cool mountain conditions, a well-maintained road bike in good order with appropriate gears and brakes, and kit as detailed in the joining instructions to ensure comfort and safety.

How can I participate in the Alps Cycling Holiday?

The holiday is suitable for experienced cyclists capable of riding comfortably up to 140km per day and on hilly terrain. It is perfect for those looking for professional support and challenging climbs, and you can contact the organizers for any fitness concerns or additional arrangements.