Geneva to Nice over ‘La Route des Grandes Alpes’ is one of the most iconic and best cycling routes in the world. Riding across the French Alps taking in the views, savouring mountain life, and climbing higher and higher into the clouds has to be savoured. It is a fine wine of cycling.

Ride into the Sky!

Starting in the Mont Blanc region you will ride south across the iconic mountain range. Here you will experience gems of The Tour de France including the highest through road in Europe, Bonette, together with Izoard and Galibier to name but three. These are the cols that test the professionals year in year out.

Riding at high altitude brings its share of challenges. The air is thinner and as such your fitness will be tested. Hors category cols are there to be conquered providing a unique climbing challenge that you simply have to try. The distance is 550 kms which you cover over six days of cycling.

The weather is another factor that has to be taken into account. One season it can be incredibly hot, other times it can be a lot cooler. Generally the higher you go the cooler the temperature becomes. Different clothing choices are recommended.

The challenges, however, are offset by other aspects which will inspire you to keep the pedals turning. The views are spectacular, arguably some of the best views you can experience anywhere in the world. Looking out over the mountain range seeing far away villages tucked away in valleys is something that is to be treasured. 

The descents can last for kilometres and many a rider sees this as a just reward for cycling one of the toughest cols on earth. And indeed, they are right. It not only provides a relief for your legs. Your riding skills will be needed to negotiate the bends and traffic that lay ahead of you. This is a challenge in itself and adds considerably to your route des Grande Alpes experience.

Riding into the Sky over ‘La Route des Grandes Alpes’

It is hard to describe the feeling of riding into clouds. When you reach the top of Bonette you will probably be at the highest point you have ever been. In fact, Geneva to Nice features 10,800 metres of vertical climbing over eleven alpine passes.

Our "Route des Grandes Alpes" tour operates in June. You can experience the brilliance of the French Alps. Discover a fine wine of cycling here; ride into the sky!

Submitted: 03/12/2017