the French Alps

Stages of your Tour

1. Susa Valley

   30 km - flat

   Your French cycling tour starts at Torino airport where you will be met by one of our friendly team, before being transferred west to our hotel in Susa. On arrival, our staff will be on hand to support those who have brought their own bike and bike fit those who are hiring bikes. The afternoon ride will take in an easy 40km loop heading south towards Susa Valley. Dinner this evening will be served in the hotel restaurant. 
   
   Hotel Napoleon | Susa

2. Col Madeleine

   100 km- 1870m Climb

   After a short morning transfer by van, your cycling adventure begins at the base of the legendary Col de la Madeleine. As you pedal through lush alpine scenery, the climb gradually unfolds, offering breath-taking views of the surrounding peaks. Reaching the summit, you'll be rewarded with a sense of accomplishment and panoramic vistas before descending into the valley. Next, you tackle the iconic Lacets de Montvernier, with its dizzying switchbacks carved into the mountainside. The road winds dramatically, and each turn reveals new scenery, making it a ride you'll remember long after the day ends.
   
   Hotel Napoleon | Susa

3. Col de l’iseran

   90 km - 2700m CLIMB

   Your cycling day begins with the stunning ascent of Colle del Moncenisio, where the shimmering turquoise lake set against dramatic alpine peaks offers a breath-taking backdrop. The climb is challenging but rewarding, with each switchback revealing more of the lake’s beauty. After a scenic descent, you tackle the legendary Col de l'Iseran, the highest pass in Europe. As you ride higher, the landscapes become wilder and more rugged, offering panoramic views that stretch for miles. After conquering both iconic climbs, a van will take you back to the hotel, wrapping up an unforgettable day on the bike.

    
   Hotel Napoleon | Susa

4. colle delle finestre

   90 km - 2750M CLIMB

   Your cycling adventure begins in Susa, taking on the iconic Colle delle Finestre, famous for its steep gradients and rugged gravel sections near the summit. As you ascend through lush forests, the road opens up to reveal sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. After conquering the Finestre, you descend towards the lively alpine town of Sestriere, where the smooth roads offer a refreshing contrast. From there, the route winds through scenic valleys and past picturesque villages before arriving at your hotel in Le Monêtier-les-Bains, where you can relax and reflect on an epic day in the saddle.
   
   Hotel Le Monetier | Monetier-les-Bains

5. coffee ride Briancon

   32 km - 300m CLIMB

   Even the pro’s need a more relaxed stage when they are riding the grand tours! Today we have a chilled ride along the picturesque Serre Chevalier Valley. A chance to rest the legs and recharge before the challenge in the coming days. Arriving in Briançon, you can explore the historic streets before stopping in a local café. Savour a well-deserved coffee while taking in the views of the towering peaks that surround the town, before a leisurely return ride rounds off your perfect morning on the bike.

   
   Hotel Le Monetier | Monetier-les-Bains

6. telegraphe & Galibier

   120 KM - 2920M CLIMB

   Your legendary day begins at the serene Lac de Grand Maison, with the towering mountains reflecting off its calm waters. The challenge kicks off with the epic ascent of the Col de la Croix de Fer, where steep gradients and breath-taking alpine views set the tone for an unforgettable ride. After a thrilling descent, you tackle the Col du Télégraphe, a shorter but steady climb that serves as a warm-up for the grand finale—the mighty Col du Galibier. As you grind up its iconic slopes, surrounded by dramatic peaks, the sense of history and achievement fuels your effort. After conquering the summit, a sweeping descent takes you back to your hotel, capping off an extraordinary day in the French Alps.
   
   Hotel Le Monetier | Monetier-les-Bains

7. Col d’Izoard

   100 km - 1900m Climb

   Starting from Le Monêtier-les-Bains, your day begins with a scenic ride through the stunning alpine landscape as you head towards the iconic Col d'Izoard. The route takes you through the picturesque town of Guillestre, where gentle roads and charming views set a peaceful tone. As you approach the climb, the terrain becomes more dramatic, with winding roads leading up through the rugged Casse Déserte, a lunar-like landscape that defines the Izoard. Reaching the summit, you're greeted by panoramic views of the towering peaks before a smooth descent caps off this memorable cycling day.

   
   Hotel Le Monetier | Monetier-les-Bains

8. Alpe d’Huez

   65 KM - 1400M climb

   On your final day of cycling, a short transfer whisks you to the top of Col de Lautaret, where the stage is set for an unforgettable ride. From this lofty starting point, you descend briefly before tackling the legendary Alpe d’Huez climb. As you pedal up the famous 21 hairpin bends, the challenge of the ascent is matched by the spectacular alpine views and the excitement of conquering this iconic climb. Each switchback brings you closer to the summit, where the sense of achievement and the panoramic vistas make for a fitting grand finale to your cycling holiday.
   
   Hotel Le Monetier | Monetier-les-Bains

9. Arrivederci

   Not today!

   All good things must come to an end and sadly it is time to bid you farewell. Our staff will happily assist you with planning your onward travel. There will be one morning transfer to Torino airport.
   
   Onward destinations.

The perfect cycling holiday requires pedalling on the perfect bike. So should you not wish to bring your own bike with you, we have a number of beautiful bikes that you can hire at very reasonable prices. If you are not sure what is the perfect bike for you then fire us an email and we will be delighted give you some expert advice. You can find more information about our bikes below. And yes, you can buy our bikes if you fall in love with them!