Ride Marmotte Granfondo Alps

Marmotte Alps is the toughest Alpine sportive in Europe, and every year our heroic SportActive riders take on the challenge and conquer four Tour de France cols in one day. This incredible achievement cannot be underestimated. Last year, weather conditions were good which was helpful, but intelligent pacing, good fitness levels, and leg power is what inspired our Marmotte Alps heroes to succeed.

To gain a better understanding at what is involved when you ride Marmotte; let’s take a look at the cols that await you.

The first climb is col du Glandon (26 km climb). When you reach the top you will be 1924 m above sea level. This is followed by a 20 km descent into the town of Saint Etienne de Cuines. A fast 205 km ride takes you through the Maurienne valley to  Saint Michel of Maurienne where you hit the Col du Télégraphe. 11 km of climb and gradients of 10% will tell you it’s game on.

After a brief descent you arrive in Valloire, which is also the starting point of Mi-Marmotte. Then before you know it you’re riding to the top of the Col du Galiber. 22 km climb, gradients range from 5-10% and when you reach the top you will be 2654 m above sea level, and at the highest point of Marmotte.

After a long 47 km descent punctuated by a few climbs, you will reach Bourg d'Oisans and will face the climb to Alpe d’Huez with its 21 famous hairpin bends. The last mountain in Marmotte is iconic in cycling and you will experience gradients of 8.1% and ride a total of 13.2 km where you cross the finish line. Well done!

Our heroes that took on Marmotte rode 174 kms across the French Alps.

Here are some pictures from a previous event:

Riding Marmotte Alps features a peloton of over 7500 riders and we support you with back-up cars and in-sportive riders. Should you need a puncture fixed or fresh water we are on hand to keep your energy levels up, and fix any issues should they arise.

To learn more about riding in Marmotte Alps Sportive, simply click here. Join us next year and experience the spectacular beauty of the French Alps, and test your limits on the mountains that test the pros.

Submitted on 16/07/2016

Revised: 20/12/2018