the Fantastic French Alps
breathtaking scenery, epic ascents, and the satisfaction of conquering legendary alpine routes:
A must-do for passionate cyclists.
Step into the challenge and make this journey one you’ll never forget
Embark on the ultimate French Alps cycling adventure, where every ride pushes your limits and rewards you with breathtaking alpine views.
Tackle legendary climbs like Col de Joux Plane, Col du Galibier, Col du Télégraphe, Col d’Izoard, and the world-famous Alpe d’Huez - iconic routes that have shaped Tour de France history. Feel the exhilaration of thrilling descents, sweeping hairpins, and dramatic mountain landscapes at every turn. Ride through charming alpine villages, soaking up local culture and savoring authentic French cuisine. Each stage offers the perfect balance of challenge, achievement, and awe-inspiring scenery. Celebrate your victories atop towering passes and capture unforgettable moments along the way, while staying in carefully selected hotels that provide comfort and a warm welcome after epic days on the bike.
Some adventures are simply unmissable - and riding the French Alps is one of them. Are you ready to challenge yourself, embrace the journey, and conquer Europe’s most legendary climbs?
Col de la Joux Plan
Col de la Colombière
Colle des Aravis
Lacets de Montvernier
Colle del Télégraphe
Col d'Izoard
Col du Galibier
Alpe d'Huez
Guest Reviews
In the Saddle
WHAT TO LOOK FORWARD to on-bike
- Conquer iconic climbs like Col du Galibier, Col du Télégraphe, Col d’Izoard, and Alpe d’Huez.
- Experience legendary Tour de France routes.
- Enjoy breathtaking alpine scenery with panoramic views of Mont Blanc and Serre Chevalier Valley.
- Thrilling descents with sweeping hairpins and fast curves to test your skills and add adrenaline to the ride.
- Enjoy a mix of riding challenges, from epic high-mountain passes to gentle valley loops.
beyond the ride
What to look forward to off-bike
- Relax and unwind in luxury hotels, enjoying spas, pools, and mountain views.
- Explore historic alpine villages, strolling through charming streets and discovering local culture.
- Savor regional cuisine, from hearty French mountain dishes to local wines.
- Take scenic transfers, enjoying panoramic drives through the French Alps.
- Take photos at the top of the iconic climbs.
Itinerary
30 km | Flat
Your French cycling adventure begins at Geneva Airport, where our friendly team will be there to greet you. From here, we’ll transfer you to Morzine, a charming Alpine village surrounded by majestic peaks. After settling in, our staff will help set up your bike so you’re ready to ride.
In the afternoon, we’ll ease into the week with a gentle 30 km loop through the stunning Haute-Savoie valley - a perfect first taste of the scenery that awaits. That evening, we’ll gather for a delicious dinner at the hotel, a relaxed opportunity to connect with the group and dream about the climbs ahead.
Hôtel Le Samoyède | Morzine
55 km | 1390 m
Begin the day with a hearty breakfast at our charming Morzine hotel before setting out on a breathtaking loop ride. The highlight of today’s adventure is the legendary Col de Joux Plane, where the 2023 Tour de France saw an epic battle between Pogačar and Vingegaard.
As you climb, the Mont Blanc massif unfolds around you, offering some of the Alps’ most stunning vistas. At the summit, we’ll pause for a classic French mountain lunch, basking in the sun and soaking up the panoramic views - a truly rewarding moment after conquering one of the Alps’ most iconic climbs.
Hôtel Le Samoyède | Morzine
90 km | 2300 m
Today’s loop takes us over two breathtaking alpine passes — the Col de la Colombière and the Col des Aravis - where every turn offers sweeping views and exhilarating descents.
We’ll conclude the ride in Megève, one of the French Alps’ most iconic and elegant villages, with time to wander its charming streets, browse local boutiques, and soak up the village’s relaxed glamour.
In the evening, we’ll return to Morzine for a celebratory group dinner, raising a glass to the first two epic rides of our adventure.
Hôtel Le Samoyède | Morzine
60 km | 1450 m
Today is all about taking it easy and savoring the alpine surroundings. After breakfast, we’ll set out on a gentle loop around Morzine, breathing in the crisp mountain air and enjoying the peaceful scenery.
A special highlight is a gelato stop by the stunning alpine lake at Avoriaz — the perfect mid-ride treat. The afternoon is yours to relax: take a swim, explore the village, or simply unwind.
Tomorrow promises one of the most epic rides of the tour, so enjoy this slower pace while it lasts.
Hôtel Le Samoyède | Morzine
70 km | 2200 m
Today we leave Morzine and transfer by van to Saint-Michel-de-Maurienne, the starting point for one of cycling’s most legendary rides. We’ll tackle two iconic climbs: the Col du Télégraphe and the mighty Col du Galibier, both rich in Tour de France history and celebrated by riders worldwide.
After conquering these breathtaking ascents, we’ll descend into the picturesque alpine village of Le Monêtier-les-Bains, where the mountains embrace us and a well-earned sense of achievement awaits.
Hotel Monetier | Monêtier-les-Bains
32 km | 300 m
Even the pros need a gentler day during a grand tour! Today’s ride is a relaxed loop through the stunning Serre Chevalier Valley, giving your legs a chance to recover and recharge for the challenges ahead.
Arriving in Briançon, wander the historic streets and pause at a local café to enjoy a well-earned coffee while taking in the towering alpine peaks. A leisurely return ride completes a perfect morning on the bike, combining relaxation, scenery, and a taste of local charm.
Hotel Monetier | Monêtier-les-Bains
100 km | 1900 m
Starting from Le Monêtier-les-Bains, today’s ride takes you through the breathtaking alpine scenery toward the legendary Col d’Izoard. You’ll pass through the charming town of Guillestre, enjoying gentle roads and peaceful vistas along the way.
As the climb begins, the landscape transforms into the dramatic Casse Déserte, a lunar-like expanse that makes the Izoard truly iconic. At the summit, take in the sweeping panoramas of the surrounding peaks before a thrilling, smooth descent brings you to a well-earned sense of accomplishment.
This is a day of epic scenery, legendary climbs, and unforgettable memories on the bike.
Hotel Monetier | Monêtier-les-Bains
65 km | 1400 m
On your final day of cycling, a short transfer takes you to the summit of Col de Lautaret, setting the stage for an unforgettable ride.
From this high vantage point, you begin with a brief descent before taking on the legendary Alpe d’Huez. Pedal through its famous 21 hairpin bends, where the thrill of the climb is matched by breathtaking alpine vistas at every turn. Each switchback brings a sense of accomplishment as you rise higher, culminating at the summit with sweeping views and a triumphant finish.
This iconic climb offers a perfect grand finale, celebrating an extraordinary cycling journey through the French Alps.
Hotel Monetier | Monêtier-les-Bains
All good things must come to an end, and sadly it’s time to say goodbye. Our team will be on hand to assist with your onward travel and ensure a seamless departure. A morning transfer to Torino Airport is provided, giving you a relaxed send-off after an unforgettable cycling adventure.
Dates & Prices
| Dates | Price | Availability | ||
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| Sun 21 Jun - Mon 29 Jun | From €3999 |
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| Sun 05 Jul - Mon 13 Jul | From €3999 |
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| Sat 01 Aug - Sun 09 Aug | From €3999 |
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| Sun 30 Aug - Mon 07 Sep | From €3999 |
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Ridley Bikes & Gear
Ridley ASTR GRX600 – Explore epic landscapes! Lightweight, responsive, and adventure-ready. Perfect for gravel, touring, and thrill seekers.
Ridley FALCN – Lightweight, aerodynamic road bike designed for speed, precision handling, and all-day comfort on performance rides.
E-Kanzo Adventure *or similar – A powerful motor, long-lasting battery, and comfortable design. Perfect for gravel roads, scenic routes, and iconic climbs.
The nuts and Bolts
What's Included?
- 8 nights' 3* or 4* accommodation
- Transfers (from specified airport/train location)
- All breakfasts
- 5 dinners
- Water and coffee are complimentary during meals that are included in the package
- Experienced team of local professionals
- GPX Routes
- Van and mechanical support with snacks and water
- Bike cleaning service
- IBT cycling jersey
- IBT water bottle
- City taxes
What's Not Included?
- Travel insurance (must be purchased before the tour)
- Flights
- Beverages
- Bike Hire
- Lunches
- Nutrition
- Tips and gratuities
At a Glance
- Level: Perfect for fit cyclists with solid training, as well as experienced riders looking to conquer epic climbs and challenging routes.
- Total Kilometres: Approximately 500 km (341 miles) across 8 riding days.
- When: June - September (best weather for cycling).
- Start: The tour begins with a transfer from Geneva Airport to Morzine.
- Finish: The tour ends in Monêtier-les-Bains, with a transfer back to Torino Airport.
- Nearest Airport: We recommend to arrive via Geneva Airport (GVA) and depart from Torino Airport (TRN) for the most convenient transfers.
- Top Tip: Mountain conditions can change quickly, so dress in layers to stay comfortable throughout your ride.
- Average Age of Guest: 40 years old.
- Male vs Female %: Roughly balanced with a slight male majority.
| Where to Meet | Please arrange to meet us at Geneva Airport (GVA) at 2 pm on day 1. We will contact you via WhatsApp in the days leading up to the start of your tour to confirm your transfer and the name of the staff member collecting you. |
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| Drop off Location | Following the conclusion of the tour we will assist you with planning and booking of onward travel. We will run one transfer to Torino Airport (TRN) leaving the hotel at 10.30 am. For alternative destinations or departure times, please contact us at alberto@italybiketours.com. |
| Transfer Time | Please consider eating a good breakfast or early lunch before we collect you from Geneva Airport. The transfer time to the first hotel is around 1h15 minutes. On the last day, the transfer to Torino Airport is around 2h. |
| Riding in France | The general road conditions in the French Alps are very good but can be affected by adverse weather, also at certain times of the year roads may be busy with cars and motorbikes. For these reasons we may adjust ride times. |
| Cuisine | The food in the French Alps is truly exceptional, offering a delightful mix of hearty mountain fare and refined regional specialties. Don’t miss local classics such as tartiflette, a rich potato and cheese dish, raclette, or freshly prepared alpine charcuterie boards. Pair your meals with homemade wines, local craft beers, or a warming genepi liqueur to complete the experience. |
| Hotel Facilities | The hotels on this tour have spas and we recommend bringing swimming costumes. Hotels also have laundry service, good WiFi and bar service. Hotels may charge extra to use some of these facilities. |
| Private Tours & Groups | We welcome the opportunity to discuss a private tour with you should you be in a group of six or more. A private tour allows you to choose dates and personalize the itinerary according to your requirements. |
| Weather | The weather in the mountains can be unpredictable and our guides will monitor the weather on a daily basis and amend rides accordingly - should there be a need. The average summer temperature in French Alps ranges from 17°C - 23°C (62°F - 73°F). |
| What Happens Next? | Are you thinking about joining us? You probably have some questions! The best way to reach us is via email — we’ll reply within 24 hours. Please check your spam/junk folder if you haven’t heard back. You can also find a contact form at the bottom of this page. If you’d like help arranging any hotels or activities before or after your tour, please contact lynn@italybiketours.com. |
Hotels
HOTEL SAMOYÈDE ★★★★
HOTEL LE MONETIER ★★★★
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Get In Touch
If you would prefer to give us a call and talk cycling and Italy, please WhatsApp us on the number below and we will arrange a call back!
ITA: +39 320 638 4713
Or you can chat to us online by clicking the button at bottom right of page.
Drop us a direct email to: info@italybiketours.com