The impressive French Alps form one of Europe's most legendary cycling regions. This imposing mountain range stretches for hundreds of kilometres in eastern France, from Lake Geneva in the north to the Mediterranean in the south. The Alps are home to countless iconic climbs that are inextricably linked to the Tour de France. Think of the mythical Col du Galibier, the leaden Col de la Madeleine or the famous hairpin bends of Alpe d'Huez.
Year after year, we see the world's best riders compete with gravity here. For many cyclists, these climbs are a must ride at some point. But the French Alps have much more to offer than just steep cols. Authentic mountain villages, spectacular views and an unprecedented variety of routes make this region perfect for a cycling adventure. You don't have to be a seasoned climber to cycle here. There are plenty of options for different levels, from rolling valley routes to challenging mountain passes and even beautiful gravel paths through the valleys.
The French Alps are distinguished from the Pyrenees by their geological composition and the way the climbs proceed. Where the Pyrenees rougher and more jagged are with short, steep slopes and rocky landscapes, the Alps are more sloping and accessible For cyclists who want to find a steady rhythm in their climbing.
The highest peaks of the Alps, such as the Mont Blanc (4,809 m), reach considerably higher than the Pyrenees. Yet this does not mean that cycling is always tougher here. Many Alpine climbs have a more gradual rate of increase, allowing you to climb at a steady cadence for longer periods. This makes it easier to distribute your forces than in the Pyrenees, where gradients can be more often irregular and brutal.
Whether you opt for a classic like the Col d'Izoard, a long climb like the Col de la Bonette, or a challenging combination of several cols in one ride, the French Alps offer endless possibilities for cyclists looking for an unforgettable cycling experience.
The French Alps are vast and diverse, so every cyclist can find a suitable destination here. Choosing a region depends on what you are looking for: do you want to climb iconic cols, ride challenging long climbs or prefer to explore quieter routes with beautiful views?
The northern French Alps, around areas such as Annecy and Mont Blanc, are known for their green, mountainous landscapes and relatively cool summers. Here you will find climbs such as the Col des Aravis and the Col de la Colombière, which are less crowded than the more southern Alpine passes.
Further south, in areas such as the Maurienne Valley, Briançon and the surroundings of Alpe d'Huez, lie the most famous climbs of the Tour de France. Here are legendary cols such as the Col du Galibier, the Col de la Madeleine and the Col d'Izoard. The roads in this region are well maintained, and there are plenty of facilities for cyclists, such as bike rental, guided tours and cycling-friendly accommodation.
For those seeking a lesser-known but adventurous experience, the Southern Alps, around the Col de la Bonette and the nature reserve of the Mercantour, an excellent choice. This area is drier and sunnier, with less congested roads and spectacular climbs.
Choose the Northern Alps if you like green valleys and a slightly milder summer, and head to the Southern Alps if you want to be assured of sunshine and less touristy climbs. For the ultimate cycling experience, the classic cols in the central Alps around Alpe d'Huez, Briançon and the Maurienne valley a must.
The Vallée de l'Arve lies in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region and is a quiet alternative to the busier cycling areas around Annecy and Bourg-Saint-Maurice. This valley offers an excellent base for cyclists who want to combine iconic climbs with a more authentic, relaxed atmosphere. From this region, you can climb challenging cols without the extreme crowds of the more touristy areas.
From here, climb the:
An hour's drive west of the Vallée de l'Arve lies the picturesque Massif des Bauges, with Annecy as its main city. This area offers a mix of challenging climbs and rolling routes around the beautiful Lac d'Annecy. It is a popular region, but thanks to the many roads and climbs, you can always find a quiet route here.
From here, climb the:
For those looking to stay in the midst of the high mountains of the Northern Alps, there is Bourg-Saint-Maurice an excellent choice. Located at the foot of several legendary climbs, this town offers numerous facilities for cyclists, such as bike rental and specialised cycling hotels.
From here, climb the:
Whether you choose the quiet Vallée de l'Arve, the lively Annecy, or the high-alpine Bourg-Saint-Maurice, the Northern Alps offer an ideal destination for every type of cyclist.
In the centre of the French Alps, around Briançon, the Maurienne valley and Alpe d'Huez, lie some of the most legendary climbs from the Tour de France. This area is a cyclists' paradise, with long, challenging climbs, excellently maintained roads and a rich cycling history.
Here you will find iconic cols such as the Col du Galibier, one of the most notorious climbs in the Alps, the scenic Col d'Izoard with its impressive Casse Déserte, and the steep hairpin bends of Alpe d'Huez, where many a professional cyclist has written cycling legends. The Col de la Madeleine and the Col du Télégraphe complete this region for those seeking a true Alpine experience.
This region is perfectly equipped for cyclists. Everywhere are bike-friendly accommodation, bike rental, repair services and guided tours available. Whether you choose to stay in the lively Briançon, the centrally located Maurienne Valley, or the cycling capital Alpe d'Huez, you always have several legendary climbs at your fingertips.
The Southern Alps offer a mix of long, high climbs and quiet mountain roads passing through impressive natural areas. The Col de la Bonette, with its highest point at 2,802 metres, is the highest paved road in France and a must for any cyclist. Other cols, such as the Col d'Allos and the Col de la Cayolle, offer less extreme altitudes, but are at least as impressive due to their remoteness and beautiful tarmac.
In this region, the roads are generally well maintained, but you will encounter fewer villages and facilities than in the busier parts of the Alps. This makes it a perfect destination for cyclists who like peace and quiet, nature and long, remote climbs.
The Southern Alps are perfect for those looking for a quiet, solar cycling destination searches, with long climbs and spectacular scenery.
Read more here about cycling from Nice (with the beautiful Turini)
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