Emosson Dam
Three countries in one week - an epic center-based tour cycling the cols of the French Alps, Switzerland, and Italy
We'll ride the Alps of France, Italy, and Switzerland, 3 Countries, for one week, from our Chamonix Mont-Blanc base
Ability level - first-time Alpine cyclists to the seasoned king of the mountains. The route is tailored to the mean ability of your group
To maximize your cycling holiday in the Mont Blanc region we have devised a week-long stay in the heart of the French Alps, allowing one day off the bike to discover the Alpine Mecca of Chamonix.
Your cycling holiday starts at Geneva airport and in an hour by our inclusive airport transfer you'll arrive at your accommodation in the heart of the French Alps, the Chamonix Mont-Blanc Valley.
We'll be exploring the Mont Blanc region in France, Switzerland, and Italy taking in some well-known classic climbs and our own lesser-known, but equally as stunning and challenging local favorites. Usually tailored to climb climbing around 2000M to 3500M each day, but tailored to your group goals and encouraged by our support and motivation!
There is flexibility in route choice depending on group dynamics, weather, and road conditions. Contact Mike for more information.
What's included...
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Return private airport transfers from Geneva Airport in our fully licensed and insured vehicles
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Usually a 7-night stay - can be shortened or lengthened with accommodation tailored to your group needs and catering desires - usually extensive cyclists breakfast, daily packed lunch/roadside picnic (on an odd day we will stop at a cafe or bakery), evening meal
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One night is free to sample a local restaurant
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Constant vehicle road support with experienced cycling host (Pro-bike mechanic support subject to availability at time of booking)
Client to-host ratio is normally 4:1 or lower
Am I fit enough? What gearing should we use? We have written a series of articles that may help you in planning your cycling trip in the French Alps and these can be accessed by clicking here
The price...
The trip is tailored to your group's needs from the routing, accommodation, and catering hence the pricing will vary from group to group - please contact Mike by email or call France at +33 680 926408 (call/facetime/WhatsApp)
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Outline Schedule
This outline of the week is subject to change based on ability, weather, and road conditions. The routes can also be tailored for bespoke groups. We have many repeat clients and we are keen to showcase new Cols and roads.
Saturday - arrive at Geneva international airport for inclusive airport transfer to Chamonix Mont-Blanc (approx one hour). Build bikes or hire bikes delivered (options available). Welcome dinner, safety briefing, and week overview
Sunday - ride out of the Chamonix Valley and ascend the Cote du Domancy (TdF and 1980 World Championship circuit) Cotes des Megeve, join TdF Stage 20 route at Megeve, ascend the TdF regulars of the Col de Aravis and Col de la Colombiere. Valley rides back to Chamonix, those that wish can ride back to Chalet or jump in the broom wagon. 130km loop, 2500M ascent approx.
Monday - drop out of Chamonix Valley and rejoin TdF Stage 20 route at Cluses. Climb HC Cols Ramaz and Joux Plaine. 100KM loop 2500M climbing. Options to extend ride/climbing.
Tuesday - Bella Italia! Short transfer through Mont Blanc tunnel. Ride the Colle San Carlos (Giro D'Talia TT) to warm up. 10kms at 10%!! Descend into the si resort of La Thuile before ascending the Petit St Bernard Pass. Descend and finish in the ski resort of Courmayeur. 80KM, 200M+ ascent.
Wednesday - Day Off to explore Chamonix or optional self-guided ride. Staff night off - dinner in Chamonix (at your expense)
Thursday - Descend from Chamonix Valley and take an alternative route to Megeve and onto the Col des Saisies, descending into Beaufort before ascending the Col de Bisanne (TdF 2016 stage 19), and back through Saisies village. 120KM 3200M ascent.
Friday - Ride from Chamonix in the opposite direction over the Col des Montets and through the Swiss border before ascending the Col de la Forclax and descending to the Roman garrison town of Martigny. Then it's the climb back up the other side of the Forclaz and onto the brutal climb of Emosson Dam, the final 2 climbs of Tdf Stage 16 2016. 100km 4200M ascent (some options)
Saturday - Airport transfers to Geneva for flights leaving mid-day onwards.