We have designed our “Cycling French Alps Ultimate Cols” cycling holiday to showcase the very best climbs and cater for riders of all abilities in the hope that everyone can enjoy it.
Climbing a mountain on two wheels is one of the most fulfilling and rewarding things you can experience on a bike. Every year the mountain roads of the French Alps become a giant playground for thousands of cyclist from all over the world.
Some riders will race up the climbs, trying to set personal bests and challenge for the King or Queen of the mountains spot. On the other hand, some prefer to shift down a few gears, taking their time to admire the stunning scenery.
BOOK NOW FOR SUMMER 2025
Shared Room
£900
£250 non refundable deposit secures your place on on this trip in a shared twin room
From the moment you arrive at Geneva airport, you will have nothing the think about other than riding your bike. We have got everything covered for you.
Cycling French Alps Ultimate Cols is a 7-day cycling holiday involving rides over some of the famous Tour de France climbs.
The week will feature the Col du Galibier, Col de Telegraphe, Col de la Madeleine, Col de la Loze, Lacets de Montvernier and the 21 mythical bends of Alpe d’Huez.
Each day you will experience a new challenge on the twisting roads that advance up these renowned mountains.
The week will involve approximately 650km of riding, coupled with 14,500 meters of ascents and descents.
All our routes will take you into area’s of spectacular mountain scenery. From snow covered peaks, colourful meadows full of wide flowers and, crystal clear lakes. We are sure it will be something you will talk about for a lifetime.
Fully Supported Rides
All rides during the “Cycling French Alps Ultimate Cols” trip will be fully supported by knowledgeable guides and a support vehicle.
The support vehicle will carry energy bars, fresh water and energy drinks to help keep your performance levels to their maximum.
This vehicle will also carry a range of spare parts and tools in order to assist with any minor mechanical problems.
This itinerary is the give you some idea of how the “Cycling French Alps Ultimate Cols” will be structured. However, this is subject to change depending on weather conditions and the ability of the group.
Day 1
Arrival
We will be waiting for you at Geneva airport to provide you will a transfer to your accommodation.
Please arrange your flights to land as close as possible to midday.
Once at your accommodation, there will be tea, coffee and a homemade cake waiting your arrival.
After you have reassembled your bikes there will be the option to go for a short ride.
Day 2
Local Climbs
Our first ride is all about giving you a feel for the local area.
We will do 4 short(ish) climbs taking us into the spectacular mountains of the Vanoise National Park
Distance
73Km
Altitude Gain
73Km
Climbs
Montagny, Pralognan, Champagny, Meribel Village
Day 3
Italian Job
Your first taste of a full Tour de France climb.
Our featured climb is 30km in length with an average gradient of 4% and, a maximum gradient of 8%.
The summit height is 2188m
Distance
143Km
Altitude Gain
3347m
Climbs
Col de la Petit Saint Bernard
Day 4
Beaufortain Beauty
Today’s main climb is both demanding and spectacularly beautiful.
Over its 22.5km you will experience some of the best scenery in the French Alps.
The average gradient is 5.1% and the maximum gradient is 9%, summit height is 1967m.
Distance
138Km
Altitude Gain
3068m
Climbs
Cormet de Roselend
Day 5
TDF Beast
Your challenge today as been described as both “Brutal” and “Monster”.
The “Loze” is 21.5km in length with an average gradient of 8% and maximum of 19.5%.
The summit height is 2305m making the seventh highest pass in France.
Distance
50Km
Altitude Gain
1745m
Climbs
Col de la Loze
Day 6
Queen's Stage
Designed to be the hardest and highest day of the week.
Featuring 4 climbs (3 HC climbs) this will push you to your physical and mental limits.
Dream it, Ride it, Achieve it
Distance
128Km
Altitude Gain
4287m
Climbs
Lacets de Montvernier, Col du Telegraphe, Col du Galibier, Alpe D’Huez
Day 7
Serpent of the Alps
The last day of riding takes us up one of the most celebrated climbs in the TDF.
Your final challenge is 25km in length, with an average gradient of 7.9% and a maximum of 12.%
The summit height is 1993m
Distance
90Km
Altitude Gain
2571m
Climbs
Col de la Madeleine
Day 8
Departure
Unfortunately, your time with us has come to an end. Its time to pack your bike back into its box.
We hope that you have enjoyed your week riding in the French Alps.
Your return transfer will get you to Geneva airport for a midday flight.