The Alps Bike Tour Itinerary

Day 1
Welcome to Annecy.  In 2009 this city echoed with cheers (and some groans) as Alberto Contador rifled to a second yellow jersey in the time trial, stage 18, around the eponymously-named lake.  On your arrival day feel free to recreate the feat and test your speed as we stretch our legs on the 50km loop around one of the most beautiful lakes in Europe.  After this rolling ride, retire to the Clos de Sens, an intimate hotel, that gives the rider rest in the heart of a busy little city.  That evening, eat like you’ve already won the yellow jersey at Clos de Sens’ Michelin-starred restaurant.  Refined meals for the refined cyclist and a great night’s sleep will get us ready for the following day.

Meals: Light lunch & Dinner
Distance cycled: 50 kms
Destinations visited: Annecy, Talloires

Day 2 
Our morning ride will bring us to a climb heretofore unknown in the Tour de France (but french climber Davide Moncoutie loves it) the Col du Grand Colombier.  This 18km climb averages 6.8%, but regularly lifts up between 10 and 14% and more.  After you’ve made a personal record, take a seat and be prepared for the spectacle that is the Tour de France.  Snatch some schwag from the passing Haribo car, or a hat from the Carrefour truck.  And when the thrum of helicopters grows close, you know that the riders are near.  Will the look on their face be as pained as your own was?  Find out.  Afterwards, enjoy a transfer back to Annecy.  Your guides will happily suggest a restaurant for you this evening - a gastronomic feast in the Annecy ancient center, or a simple pizzeria – the choice is yours.

Meals: Breakfast & lunch
Distance cycled: 50-80kms
Destinations visited: Col du Grand Colombier

Day 3
After a rehabilitating breakfast of eggs and warm croissants, we will transfer you to St. Jean de Maurienne at the base of the Col de la Croix de Fer and La Toussuire.  La Toussuire is known for the jour sans of Floyd Landis in 2006; the Col de la Croix de Fer [5.1 % at 30km] has been crossed 15 times since 1947.  Tackling one or both of these legends, we will then watch the riders attack on this day which is sure to see some contenders rise and pretenders fall.  After the finish, we will bike to our beautiful chalet in the mountains, Solneige.  A hearty Savoyarde meal awaits with views over the lake and valley below.

Meals: Breakfast / Dinner
Distance cycled: apprx. 60kms
Destinations visited: St. Jean de Maurienne, Col de la Croix de Fer and La Toussuire, Vaujany

Day 4
The peleton will pass early today, giving us plenty of time to enjoy some little rides in the area.  Little rides like, say, the Alpe d’Huez.  A short ride from Solneige, this fantasy-climb will display that it is much more than just 21 curves averaging 8.1 % – there are gorgeous routes that wind all around the mountain.  Today is the perfect day to discover them.  After a ride back up to Solneige, we will be treated to another wonderful meal.  You’ll have earned every calorie!

Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Distance cycled: apprx. 60kms
Destinations visited: Bourg d’Oisons, Alpe d’Huez, Allemond

Day 5
Ready to race with 500 other avid cyclists?  Today we will be riding the L’Arvan Villards – a cyclosportif created by the french organization LVO. Choose from three different parcours between 140 and 90kms, and feel free to race or simply take your time to enjoy the views. This is an incredible chance to fully immerse oneself in the great cycling traditions of Europe, and should not be missed!  After the race, we’ll have the afternoon to relax, explore, and take in le fin d’étape. Celebrate and toast the amazing week you had this evening with a delicious meal in Bourg d’ Oisans.
 
Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Distance cycled: 90-140km
Destinations visited: Col de la Croix Fer, Col de Molliard

Day 6
Enjoy another amazing breakfast, and take a little spin or find that perfect jersey in Bourg d’Oisans before your guides transport you to Grenoble.  The Alps will fade away from view, but the memories never will!

Meals: Breakfast