Cycling Routes and Places

Where to go cycling in the Alps, the best climbs and guides for cycling in the Alps.
cycling the alps

Cycling in the Alps is an experience like no other. It is a unique blend of physical challenge, stunning natural beauty, and cultural immersion that draws cyclists from around the world.

The Alps are a vast mountain range that stretches across eight countries in Europe, with France, Italy, Switzerland, Austria, and Germany being the most popular destinations for cycling enthusiasts. In this article, we will explore the many aspects of cycling in the Alps, including the routes, the culture, and the history of this iconic cycling destination.

 

 

Popular Routes

One of the biggest draws of cycling in the Alps is the wide variety of routes available. There are options for every level of cyclist, from beginners to seasoned pros. Some of the most popular routes in the Alps include:

  • Col du Galibier: 

    Col du GalibierCycling Col du Galibier is one of the most iconic and challenging cycling routes in the Alps. Located in the heart of the French Alps, the Col du Galibier is a mountain pass that connects the towns of Saint-Michel-de-Maurienne and Briançon. The pass has an elevation of 2,645 meters (8,678 feet) and is often featured in the Tour de France.

    It is a bucket list item for many cyclists, and for good reason. The route offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, as well as a challenging climb that will test even the most experienced cyclists.

    The climb up Col du Galibier is often approached from the south, starting in the town of Saint-Michel-de-Maurienne. The climb is approximately 35 kilometers (22 miles) long and gains 2,556 meters (8,386 feet) in elevation. The first 18 kilometers (11 miles) are relatively gentle, with an average gradient of around 5%. However, the second half of the climb is much steeper, with an average gradient of around 8%.

    As cyclists ascend, they will pass through several small villages and mountain passes. The road is well-maintained, but can be narrow in places and is often busy with both cyclists and motor vehicles.

    One of the most challenging aspects of cycling Col du Galibier is the altitude. At the summit, the air pressure is approximately 40% lower than at sea level, which can make breathing more difficult and cause fatigue more quickly. It is important for cyclists to acclimate to the altitude before attempting the climb, and to bring plenty of water and electrolyte drinks to stay hydrated.

    Cycling Col du Galibier is an incredibly rewarding experience. The views from the summit are breathtaking, with panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The descent can be fast and exhilarating, with cyclists reaching speeds of up to 60 kilometers per hour (37 miles per hour) on the steep, winding road.

    The Col du Galibier climb is an important part of cycling history. The pass has been featured in the Tour de France many times and has played a key role in many historic races. Some of the most memorable moments in Tour de France history have taken place on the slopes of Col du Galibier, including the legendary battles between Fausto Coppi and Gino Bartali in the 1940s and the epic duel between Andy Schleck and Alberto Contador in 2011.

    In addition to the Tour de France, Col du Galibier has also been featured in many other important cycling races, including the Giro d'Italia and the Critérium du Dauphiné.

  • Alpe d'Huez: 

    Alpe dAlpe d'Huez is another iconic and challenging cycling route in the French Alps. Located in the Oisans region of the Alps, Alpe d'Huez is a mountain resort known for its winter sports and summer cycling.

    The climb up Alpe d'Huez is approximately 14 kilometers (8.7 miles) long and gains 1,100 meters (3,600 feet) in elevation. The climb is often approached from the town of Le Bourg-d'Oisans and features 21 hairpin turns, each numbered with a plaque that commemorates a past Tour de France stage winner.

    It is known for its steep gradients, with an average gradient of 8.1%, and sections that reach 10%. The climb is challenging but manageable for most experienced cyclists and can be broken down into several distinct sections.

    The first section of the climb is relatively gentle, with a gradient of around 4%. This section passes through several small villages and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The second section of the climb is more challenging, with an average gradient of around 7.5%. This section features several hairpin turns and can be quite steep in places.

    The third section of the climb is perhaps the most challenging, with an average gradient of around 10%. This section features several long, steep ramps that can be difficult to navigate, particularly for cyclists who are fatigued from the previous sections of the climb.

    The final section of the climb is relatively gentle, with a gradient of around 5%. This section passes through the town of Alpe d'Huez and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

    Cycling Alpe d'Huez is not only a challenging climb but also an important part of cycling history. The climb has been featured in the Tour de France and has played a key role in many historic races. Some of the most memorable moments in Tour de France history have taken place on the slopes of Alpe d'Huez, including the legendary battles between Marco Pantani and Jan Ullrich in 1997, and Lance Armstrong and Jan Ullrich in 2001.

    In addition to the Tour de France, Alpe d'Huez has also been featured in many other important cycling races, including the Critérium du Dauphiné and the Tour de l'Avenir.

  • Mont Ventoux: 

    Mont VentouxCycling Mont Ventoux is one of the most famous and challenging cycling routes in France. Located in the Provence region of France, Mont Ventoux is a mountain with an elevation of 1,912 meters (6,273 feet) that has become an icon in the cycling world.

    The climb up Mont Ventoux is approximately 22 kilometers (13.7 miles) long and gains 1,617 meters (5,305 feet) in elevation. The climb is often approached from the town of Bédoin and features three distinct sections, each with its own character and challenges.

    The first section of the climb is relatively gentle, with an average gradient of around 4%. This section passes through the town of Bédoin and features stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Cyclists should be careful not to push themselves too hard in this section, as the climb becomes much more challenging in the second section.

    The second section of the climb is known as the "forest" section and is perhaps the most challenging part of the climb. This section is approximately 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) long and features an average gradient of around 9%. The road winds through a dense forest, with few views of the surrounding countryside. The gradient is relatively consistent throughout this section, making it a difficult but manageable climb for the experienced cyclist.

    The third and final section of the climb is known as the "lunar" section and is the most iconic part of the climb. This section is approximately 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) long and features an average gradient of around 8.5%. The road is exposed and winds through a barren, rocky landscape that has been compared to the surface of the moon. The final kilometer of the climb is particularly challenging, with an average gradient of around 10%.

    Cycling Mont Ventoux is not only a challenging climb, but also an important part of cycling history. The climb has been featured in the Tour de France many times and has played a key role in some of the most memorable moments in Tour history. The climb is particularly famous for the battle between Eddy Merckx and Bernard Thévenet in 1970, and for the emotional victory by Marco Pantani in 2000, just months before his tragic death.

    In addition to the Tour de France, Mont Ventoux has also been featured in other important cycling races, including the Critérium du Dauphiné and the Paris-Nice race.

    Finally, it is important to respect the local culture and customs when cycling Mont Ventoux. The climb is an important part of the local community, and cyclists should be courteous to other cyclists, pedestrians, and drivers. They should also be mindful of the environment and take care not to damage the delicate ecosystem of Mont Ventoux.

  • Stelvio Pass: 

    Stelvio PassCycling the Stelvio Pass is one of the most challenging and rewarding cycling experiences in the Alps. Located in the Italian Alps, the Stelvio Pass is a mountain pass that reaches an elevation of 2,758 meters (9,049 feet) above sea level. It is the highest paved mountain pass in the Eastern Alps and one of the highest in the Alps overall.

    The climb up the Stelvio Pass is approximately 24.3 kilometers (15.1 miles) long and gains 1,842 meters (6,040 feet) in elevation. The climb is often approached from the town of Bormio, and features 48 switchbacks that wind their way up the mountain. The Stelvio Pass is often considered one of the most challenging climbs in the world due to its length, altitude, and steep gradients. The climb is divided into three sections, each with its own unique characteristics and challenges. The first section, from Bormio to the town of Santa Caterina, is the easiest part of the climb. The gradient is relatively gentle, averaging around 6%, and the road is wide and smooth. The second section, from Santa Caterina to the Umbrail Pass, is the most challenging part of the climb. The gradient increases to an average of around 8%, with some sections reaching as high as 12%. The road becomes narrower and more winding, with sharp switchbacks that require careful attention and skill to navigate.

    The third and final section, from the Umbrail Pass to the summit of the Stelvio Pass, is the most scenic part of the climb. The road winds through a stunning alpine landscape, with views of snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and valleys below. However, the gradient remains steep, with an average of around 7%, and the altitude can make it difficult to breathe.

    Cycling the Stelvio Pass requires a high level of fitness and preparation. Cyclists should be comfortable with long, challenging climbs and should have experience cycling at high altitudes. It is also important to acclimate to the altitude before attempting the climb, as the air becomes thinner as you ascend.

    In addition, cyclists should be prepared for the unpredictable weather conditions that can occur on the Stelvio Pass. The climb is often cold and windy, with sudden changes in temperature and weather patterns. Cyclists should bring layers of clothing and appropriate gear to ensure they are prepared for any weather conditions.

    The Stelvio Pass is a popular destination for cyclists from around the world and is often included in professional cycling races, such as the Giro d'Italia. In addition to cycling, the Stelvio Pass offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, and mountaineering. The pass is also home to a number of historic landmarks and cultural attractions, including the Stelvio National Park and the Santa Maria Val Mustair Monastery.

    Overall, cycling the Stelvio Pass is an unforgettable experience that offers stunning views, challenging terrain, and a sense of accomplishment that comes with conquering one of the most iconic climbs in the world. It requires preparation, fitness, and careful attention, but for those who are up to the challenge, it is a journey that will be remembered for a lifetime.

 

These are just a few of the many routes available to cyclists in the Alps. There are countless other climbs and routes to explore, each with its own unique challenges and rewards.

Culture

Cycling is deeply ingrained in the culture of the Alps. The region has a rich history of cycling, with many of the most famous races in the world taking place in the Alps. The Tour de France, the Giro d'Italia, and the Vuelta a España all feature stages in the Alps, and many professional cyclists call the region home.

The culture of cycling in the Alps extends beyond just racing, however. Cycling is a way of life for many people in the region, and cyclists are a common sight on the roads and trails throughout the Alps. There is a sense of camaraderie among cyclists in the Alps, with riders often greeting each other as they pass on the road.

In addition to the cycling culture, the Alps are also home to a rich culinary and artistic tradition. The region is famous for its cheese, wine, and cured meats, and many small villages throughout the Alps offer the opportunity to sample these local delicacies. The region is also home to many talented artists and craftsmen, with traditional crafts such as woodworking, pottery, and weaving being practiced throughout the region.

cycling in the alps

History

The history of cycling in the Alps is intertwined with the history of the region itself. Cycling became popular in the Alps in the early 20th century, with the first major race 

in the region, the Tour de France, being established in 1903. The race quickly became one of the most prestigious sporting events in the world, and the Alps played a key role in the race's success. The high mountain passes of the Alps provided a unique and challenging terrain for the cyclists, and the dramatic scenery added to the spectacle of the race.

Over the years, the Tour de France has become synonymous with the Alps, and many of the most iconic stages of the race take place in the mountains. The race has helped to popularize cycling in the Alps, and has inspired countless cyclists to tackle the region's many challenging routes.

In addition to the Tour de France, the Alps have been the site of many other important races throughout history. The Giro d'Italia, for example, regularly features stages in the Italian Alps, and the Vuelta a España has also included stages in the region.

The history of cycling in the Alps is also intertwined with the history of the region's infrastructure. The development of roads and mountain passes in the Alps has been driven in part by the needs of cyclists and other outdoor enthusiasts. Many of the region's most famous roads and mountain passes were originally constructed to provide access to remote mountain villages and to support the region's agriculture and forestry industries.

Today, the infrastructure of the Alps is well-developed, with many roads and trails specifically designed for cycling. There are also a number of cycling-focused events and festivals that take place throughout the year, including the famous La Marmotte Granfondo Alpes, which attracts thousands of cyclists from around the world.

cycling in the alps

Tips for Cycling in the Alps

Cycling in the Alps can be an incredible experience, but it is also a challenging one. Here are a few tips to help make the most of your cycling trip to the Alps:

  1. Train in advance: Cycling in the Alps requires a high level of fitness, so it is important to train in advance of your trip. Incorporate long, challenging climbs into your training regimen, and focus on building your endurance and strength.

  2. Plan your route carefully: There are countless routes to choose from in the Alps, so it is important to plan your route carefully based on your skill level and fitness. Be realistic about what you can handle, and don't be afraid to adjust your plans if necessary.

  3. Dress appropriately: The weather in the Alps can be unpredictable, so it is important to dress appropriately for the conditions. Bring layers and be prepared for rain or cold temperatures.

  4. Stay hydrated: Cycling in the Alps is a physically demanding activity, so it is important to stay hydrated. Bring plenty of water and electrolyte drinks, and plan your rest stops accordingly.

  5. Respect the local culture: The Alps are home to a rich and diverse cultural heritage, so it is important to respect the local customs and traditions. Be courteous to other cyclists and pedestrians, and be mindful of the environment.

bicycle touring in the alps

Conclusion

Cycling in the Alps is a unique and unforgettable experience that offers a blend of physical challenge, natural beauty, and cultural immersion. Whether you are a seasoned pro or a beginner, there are countless routes and climbs to explore in this iconic cycling destination. From the stunning views to the rich cultural heritage, the Alps offer something for every cyclist. With careful planning, training, and respect for the local culture, a cycling trip to the Alps can be the adventure of a lifetime.

 

 

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