The French Alps to the… (trip)

The French Alps to the French Riviera

  • Grenoble, France
  • Active & Adventure
France, Europe

from $4,695* per person9 DaysMay, July, August
Boutique accommodations Exertion level: 4
Operator: Ciclismo Classico 24 people max
    * Spectacular cycling through the French Alps and Provence - Cotes d'Azur
    * Ride famous alpine passes including Alpe-d'Huez, Col du Galibier, and Col de l'Izoard
    * Chairlift ride to Glacier Meije - free when reserved by April 9
    * Rafting on the Verdon River - free when reserved by April 9
    * Overnight in 11th Century castle

This one-off tour designed by our senior bicycle tour specialist Enrico Pizzorni is a must for those who want 9 days of spectacular and challenging cycling in the French Alps. The route stretches from Grenoble in the Alps to Nice on the Riviera, and includes some of the most famous mountain passes in the cycling world - Alpe-d'Huez, Col du Galibier, and Col de l'Izoard. But it's not all about the climbing. The tour also includes a cable car excursion to the top of the Glacier a half day of white water rafting in the Gorges du Verdon, a night in an 11th century castle, plenty of great wine and food, cycling clinics, coaching and much more.

Loading map, please wait...

Locations visited/nearby

France, Europe

0 testimonials about this trip.

3 testimonials about the provider, Ciclismo Classico:

  • Reviewer: Harvey S. located in San Diego, CA
    “We never would have found such wonderful places off the beaten path on our own.”
  • Reviewer: Nancy A. located in Chicago, IL
    “Leave the real world behind, cycle through Italy and refuel your soul.”
  • Reviewer: Bill M. located in San Jose, CA
    “As with a first taste of any fine wine, your Assaggio Toscana has whetted my appetite for much more of your beautiful country. I'll cherish the memories of our dinners at the Fattoria, our climbs up those beautiful hills and most of all the small personal details along the way." Never has the word 'Classico' been more appropriate!”

Comments from Facebook

Special information

  • May accommodate certain types of disabilities. Contact the operator for more information.

Itinerary

Day 1 – Grenoble warm-up ride

Warm up ride to Uriage les Bains / Chemin Naclard. The itinerary starts from
one of the gateway of the Alps, capital of the Isere department. Grenoble is a lively town
with a great position on the banks of Isere river and one of the most important scientific
hubs of Europe, as well as seat of an ancient University with more than 60,000 students.

Day 2 – Grenoble loop to Vercors

Ride to Lans en Vercors. This is a first approach to French Mountains, the high plan of Vercors seats South West of Grenoble and is a peaceful area, covered with oak forests and rich of water. This place is perfect for cycling, on the small, charming villages where you can always find refreshments and delicious snacks.

Day 3 – Grenoble to La Grave (Alpe-d’Huez)

Ride to Alpe d’Huez featuring one of the most famous climbs in cycling history: on the switchbacks of Alpe d’Huez Dutch and Italian champions wrote legendary pages of the Sport. When you reach the hotel you can enjoy a chairlift ride to the Glacier Meije at 10,500 feet from where you can admire the French Alps and have a breathtaking view of Mount Blanc. Relax overnight at a Chalet in La Grave.

Day 4 – La Grave to Briancon (Col du Galibier)

On our ride towards Briancon, we’ll have the optional chance to explore the amazing mountain roads of Galibier and Granon, before a well earned cold beer in the historical town center of Briancon.

Day 5 – Briancon to Jausiers (Col de l’Izoard and Col de Vars)

This will be another amazing ride that will climb two famous passes: the Izoard and the Vars. We will leave the Hilly area of the Alps and will start approaching the South of France and its more laid-back cultural atmosphere.

Day 6 – Jausiers-Verdon

This ride leaves the Alps to enter in the hearth of Provence, our final destination, the Gorges du Verdon, are a natural perfect Monument.

Day 7 – Verdon rest day

Today you can either relax at the hotel or discover the beautiful area which has been carved by the Verdon river. For those who want to be active today we have organized an exciting day of activities which may include rafting and also a bike ride to explore the area.

Day 8 – Verdon to Nice

This will be a final parade to the coast riding through Grasse and then finally to the capital of the French Riviere. Explore the Provencal vegetation and the lovely landscape.

Day 9 – Au revoir!

At 9:00 am we shuttle you to the airport or TGV train station to catch your next connection or extend your stay in the area.

More information from Ciclismo Classico: