Shakedown Ride - Local Loop to check out your bike's health and to acclimatise to our new surroundings

The Col du Grand-Saint-Bernard is a true test of endurance, a legendary pass that has connected Italy and Switzerland for over 2,000 years. Starting from Aosta, this ride offers a relentless challenge with breathtaking alpine scenery, high-altitude switchbacks, and a historical summit that has hosted warriors, traders, and Tour de France champions alike.

The Climb – Italian Side

The ascent from Aosta (583m) begins gradually, winding through small villages before ramping up beyond Étroubles, where the real challenge begins. The final 10km deliver a proper test, with gradients consistently hovering between 8-10%, peaking at 14.1% in sections. The reward? Sweeping views, the iconic St. Bernard Monastery, and the feeling of conquering one of cycling’s greats.

The Descent & Swiss Ascent (Optional for the truly brave!)

For those looking to complete the full Alpine experience, the descent into Switzerland offers smooth tarmac, wide bends, and fast straights. But the real challenge lies in the return ascent from Martigny (471m)—a 30km monster with punishing gradients and an ever-thinning air supply as you climb back to 2469m.

Final Stretch to Aosta

With both ascents conquered, the descent back to Aosta is a well-earned victory lap, a chance to soak in the stunning landscapes and reflect on an epic day in the saddle.

This is a ride for the toughest of riders, demanding power, endurance, and a love for suffering—but the reward is legendary. 🚴‍♂️🔥

Departing from Aosta (583m), today’s ride takes you deep into the Aosta Valley, finishing at the majestic Breuil-Cervinia, one of Italy’s most iconic ski resorts. This high-altitude climb, once featured in the Giro d’Italia, rewards riders with breathtaking views of the Matterhorn (Monte Cervino) and a long, steady ascent that tests both endurance and pacing.

The Approach

The first 50km roll gently through the valley, providing a scenic warm-up before reaching the base of the climb in Châtillon (549m). From here, the road tilts upward, and the challenge begins.

The Climb – 28.2km to Glory

The ascent to Breuil-Cervinia is long but manageable, averaging 5.7%, with multiple switchbacks and stunning mountain vistas. The first half allows riders to settle into a rhythm, while the final 10km ramps up, with sections exceeding 10% and a max pitch of 13.8%—demanding a final push to the top.

The Summit – 2006m

Reaching Breuil-Cervinia is an incredible payoff. At 2006m, this high-altitude finish offers panoramic views of the Matterhorn, a sense of achievement, and the perfect spot to refuel before the descent.

The Descent & Return to Aosta

The fast, sweeping descent is a reward in itself, allowing riders to recover while soaking in the beauty of the Aosta Valley. With gravity on your side, the return ride to Aosta is the perfect cooldown after a truly spectacular alpine challenge.

This is a ride for strong climbers, requiring both stamina and mental resilience, but the beauty and grandeur of the climb make it an unforgettable cycling experience. 🚴‍♂️⛰️

Today is a transfer day to Briançon, but for those who still crave one of the most spectacular climbs in Italy, the Colle del Nivolet is an optional—but highly recommended—ride before the journey. This is a bucket-list climb, featuring remote alpine landscapes, dramatic switchbacks, and high-altitude lakes.

The Climb – 40km of Alpine Perfection

Starting from Locana (613m), the ascent to Colle del Nivolet (2612m) is nothing short of breathtaking. The climb is long, with an average gradient of 5.1%, but the real challenge lies in the final 15km, where the road steepens and the legendary hairpins come into play. With sections reaching 12.9%, this climb demands grit and endurance.

A Summit Unlike Any Other

Reaching the summit at 2612m, riders are rewarded with jaw-dropping scenery—pristine alpine lakes, rugged peaks, and a road that seems to disappear into the clouds. There are no tunnels or ski resorts here—just pure, untouched mountain beauty.

The Descent & Transfer to Briançon

After a thrilling descent, riders will rejoin the group for the transfer to Briançon, where they can relax and recover in preparation for more epic riding ahead.

For those opting to rest today, it's a chance to recharge before tackling some of the most iconic climbs in the Alps in the coming days. But for those who take on the Colle del Nivolet, it will be a climb etched into memory forever. 🚴‍♂️🏔️

Today is a true Alpine masterpiece, featuring three legendary climbs—each with its own character and challenge. Riders will tackle the historic Colle delle Finestre, the high-altitude Sestriere (twice!), and finish with a double ascent of Col de Montgenèvre.

Climb 1: Colle delle Finestre – A Legendary Ascent

🗻 Summit Elevation: 2163m | ⛰️ Climb Length: 40km | 📈 Elevation Gain: 763m | ⚡ Avg Gradient: 6.9% | 🔥 Max Gradient: 14.5%

This Category 1 climb is an absolute legend in the cycling world, famous for its gravel upper section that has challenged riders in the Giro d’Italia. The first 18km are on smooth tarmac, but the final 8km are rough, loose gravel, requiring skill and endurance. The switchbacks are relentless, and gradients reach 14.5%, making it a true grinder. The reward? Incredible mountain views and a descent into Susa before heading toward Sestriere.

Climb 2: Sestriere – The Double Summit

🗻 Summit Elevation: 2045m | ⛰️ Climb Length: 11km (each side) | 📈 Elevation Gain: 694m (first climb), 527m (second climb)
⚡ Avg Gradient: 6.1% (up) | 🔥 Max Gradient: 13.4% (up) | ⚡ Avg Gradient: 4.8% (down) | 🔥 Max Gradient:13.5% (down)

Sestriere is a famous Tour de France and Giro d’Italia climb that delivers two ascents today—one from each side. The first climb is tougher, featuring 6.1% average gradients with pitches up to 13.4%, while the return climb is slightly more forgiving but still a major test of endurance. The summit at 2045m is a great place to refuel before the fast descent.

Climb 3: Col de Montgenèvre – The Grand Finale

🗻 Summit Elevation: 1854m | ⛰️ Climb Length: 7km (each side) | 📈 Elevation Gain: ~500m (each ascent) | ⚡ Avg Gradient: 5-6%

The final challenge of the day is Montgenèvre—twice! This historic pass between France and Italy has been a key route in the Tour de France, with a steady gradient that still requires one last push after a tough day in the saddle.

The Reward

After three brutal climbs and five major ascents, the return to Briançon will feel well-earned. Riders can celebrate with post-ride drinks and a hearty alpine meal, knowing they’ve conquered one of the toughest days of the tour. 🚴‍♂️🔥🏔️

Prepare for a brutal but beautiful day in the French Alps as we take on two of the most iconic and challenging climbs—Col d’Izoard and Col Agnel. This ride is an absolute test of endurance, featuring long ascents, steep gradients, and breathtaking landscapes.

Climb 1: Col d’Izoard – A Tour de France Classic

🗻 Summit Elevation: 2361m | ⛰️ Climb Length: 19km | 📈 Elevation Gain: 1170m
⚡ Avg Gradient: 6.1% | 🔥 Max Gradient: 12.9% | 🏅 Category: 1

Col d’Izoard is one of the most legendary climbs in cycling history, featured in multiple Tour de France stages. The climb twists through pine forests before opening up into the stunning Casse Déserte—a barren, lunar-like landscape at high altitude. The final kilometers are brutally steep, demanding everything from the legs. A must-climb for any serious cyclist.

Climb 2: Col Agnel – The Beast of the Alps

🗻 Summit Elevation: 2744m | ⛰️ Climb Length: 22km | 📈 Elevation Gain: 1364m
⚡ Avg Gradient: 6.6% | 🔥 Max Gradient: 12.8% | 🏅 Category: HC

Col Agnel is the highest paved international pass in the Alps and ranks as one of the toughest climbs of the tour. The long, winding ascent offers sweeping alpine views, but the final 10km ramp up significantly, testing even the strongest riders. With a summit at 2744m, riders will experience thin air and a true high-mountain experience.

The Reward

The descents today are long and fast, offering incredible mountain scenery as riders make their way back to Briançon. After conquering two Alpine monsters, a well-earned post-ride meal and drinks will cap off an unforgettable day. Welcome to the big leagues. 🚴‍♂️🔥🏔️

Today's ride is a true alpine epic, tackling not just one, but two legendary climbs—twice! The Col du Télégraphe and Col du Galibier have long been pillars of the Tour de France, and riding them both ways means a serious test of endurance, climbing ability, and descending skills.

Climb 1: Col du Télégraphe (Ascent 1)

🗻 Summit Elevation: 1653m | ⛰️ Climb Length: 4.7km
⚡ Avg Gradient: 3.3% | 🔥 Max Gradient: 8.7%

The short warm-up climb of the day, Télégraphe is the gateway to Galibier, offering a steady and manageable gradient before a brief descent into Valloire, where the real challenge begins.

Climb 2: Col du Galibier (Ascent 1)

🗻 Summit Elevation: 2642m | ⛰️ Climb Length: 34.8km
⚡ Avg Gradient: 4% | 🔥 Max Gradient: 11.7%

From Valloire, the long and relentless ascent of Galibier kicks off. Expect iconic switchbacks, high-altitude hairpins, and stunning mountain views. The final 8km is brutally steep, with thin air and gradients touching double digits. Cresting the iconic summit, riders will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the French Alps.

Climb 3: Col du Galibier (Ascent 2 – The Reverse Climb)

🗻 Summit Elevation: 2642m | ⛰️ Climb Length: 34.8km
⚡ Avg Gradient: 6% | 🔥 Max Gradient: 15.1%

After an exhilarating descent, it’s time to tackle Galibier from the opposite side—a more aggressive climb with steeper gradients. The final push to the summit will test even the strongest legs before another fast descent back to Valloire.

Climb 4: Col du Télégraphe (Ascent 2 – The Reverse Climb)

🗻 Summit Elevation: 1653m | ⛰️ Climb Length: 11.9km
⚡ Avg Gradient: 7.1% | 🔥 Max Gradient: 9.9%

The final climb of the day isn’t to be underestimated—Télégraphe’s reverse ascent is longer and steeper than the morning’s effort, making it a gruelling final test before rolling back into Briançon.

The Reward

Four major climbs, two of them twice, make for one of the toughest rides of the tour. But with every summit conquered, riders will earn serious bragging rights. Expect big climbs, sweeping descents, and epic mountain scenery, followed by well-earned post-ride drinks.

This is what alpine riding is all about. 🚴‍♂️🔥🏔️

After six massive days in the Alps, today offers a well-deserved transfer day as we relocate from Briançon to Albertville. Riders have the option to rest and recover on the transfer or tackle one more mountain—the stunning Col des Saisies.

Climb: Col des Saisies

🗻 Summit Elevation: 1653m | ⛰️ Climb Length: 14.8km
⚡ Avg Gradient: 6.4% | 🔥 Max Gradient: 14.7%

For those up for it, today’s climb is a hidden gem. The long, winding ascent starts off at a manageable gradient but gradually steepens, testing tired legs. With sections reaching nearly 15%, this is no easy spin—but the panoramic views of Mont Blanc from the summit make it worth every pedal stroke.

The Choice: Rest or Ride?

Option 1: Enjoy a relaxed transfer to Albertville, soaking in the sights and recharging for the final days ahead.
Option 2: Take on one last big climb before the transfer, earning a spectacular summit moment before rolling into Albertville.

Whichever you choose, Albertville awaits—a perfect base for the next stage of our epic adventure. 🚴‍♂️🏔️

After a relaxing transfer day, today’s challenge is the iconic Col de la Loze—one of the newest and most brutal climbs in the French Alps. With stunning high-altitude views and sections that will test even the strongest riders, this is a ride not to be underestimated.

Climb: Col de la Loze

🗻 Summit Elevation: 2303m | ⛰️ Climb Length: 26.2km
⚡ Avg Gradient: 6.9% | 🔥 Max Gradient: 15.2%

Col de la Loze is pure cycling theatre—a road built exclusively for cyclists, free from cars, offering serene yet unforgiving terrain. The climb starts gradually, luring you in before revealing its true nature: sudden steep ramps up to 15%, relentless gradients, and unpredictable shifts in difficulty.

The final kilometers are brutal, but the reward is spectacular alpine scenery, a true mountaintop summit, and the satisfaction of conquering one of the most epic climbs in Europe.

What to Expect

✔️ Steady early gradients before a savage final 5km
✔️ Unrivaled high-mountain views and a true summit finish
✔️ A fast, thrilling descent back to Albertville

Today is about endurance, pacing, and pure climbing grit. If you’ve got the legs, Col de la Loze will give you an unforgettable ride. 🚴‍♂️🔥

Today’s ride is an Alpine masterpiece, combining the steep and relentless gradients of Col du Pré with a double ascent of the legendary Cormet du Roselend. Featuring pristine alpine lakes, towering peaks, and long, challenging climbs, this is a day that demands grit, pacing, and endurance.

Climb 1: Col du Pré – A Brutal but Beautiful Climb

🗻 Summit Elevation: 1703m | ⛰️ Climb Length: 12.2km
⚡ Avg Gradient: 7.9% | 🔥 Max Gradient: 15.2%

Col du Pré is a steep and unrelenting climb, with switchbacks that offer stunning views of Lac de Roselend. The road is narrow and quiet, making for an incredible cycling experience, but the high gradients make it a serious test right from the start. The final 3km are especially punishing, with gradients above 10% in places before reaching the summit.

Climb 2: Cormet du Roselend (Ascent 1) – A High-Altitude Challenge

🗻 Summit Elevation: 1967m | ⛰️ Climb Length: 20.3km
⚡ Avg Gradient: 6.2% | 🔥 Max Gradient: 9%

After descending Col du Pré, riders will immediately take on the first ascent of Cormet du Roselend. This climb is longer and more gradual, but still presents a significant challenge, with long stretches above 7%. The road winds through lush green valleys, alongside rushing mountain streams, before reaching the barren, high-mountain landscape at the summit.

Climb 3: Cormet du Roselend (Ascent 2) – The Final Test

🗻 Summit Elevation: 1967m | ⛰️ Climb Length: 19.3km
⚡ Avg Gradient: 6.1% | 🔥 Max Gradient: 13.8%

After a fast descent, it’s time to climb Cormet du Roselend again—this time from the opposite side. The climb is equally stunning, but features steeper sections in the final 5km, with a max gradient of 13.8% that will test fatigued legs. The final push to the summit marks the end of a truly epic day in the Alps.

The Reward

✔️ Stunning views of Lac de Roselend
✔️ A mix of steep, relentless gradients and long, drawn-out climbs
✔️ One of the most scenic rides of the tour

After three major ascents, riders will descend into Albertville, where a well-earned meal and drinks await. Today’s ride is a true Alpine test—but the views, the challenge, and the sense of achievement will make it one of the most memorable days of the tour. 🚴‍♂️🔥🏔️

After multiple big mountain days, today offers a transfer from Albertville to Bourg St Maurice, setting us up for the final leg of the tour. Riders can choose to rest and recover during the transfer or take on the tough ascent to Arc 2000, a relentless 23.6km climb into the high-altitude ski resort.

Climb: Arc 2000 – A Long and Relentless Climb

🗻 Summit Elevation: 2126m | ⛰️ Climb Length: 23.6km
⚡ Avg Gradient: 5.6% | 🔥 Max Gradient: 10.6%

For those up for the challenge, Arc 2000 is a long and steady ascent that demands consistent power and endurance. The climb twists through alpine forests, with stunning valley views below. The lower slopes are forgiving, but the final stretch features steeper gradients, making for a tough finish at over 2000m altitude.

The high-altitude ski village at the summit offers a perfect spot to take in the views before a thrilling descent.

The Choice: Rest or Ride?

✔️ Option 1: Take a well-earned rest and enjoy a relaxed transfer to Bourg St Maurice.
✔️ Option 2: Test your endurance on Arc 2000, tackling another expert-level ascent before transferring.

Whichever you choose, Bourg St Maurice will be our new base for the coming days, leading into some of the biggest and most legendary climbs of the tour. 🚴‍♂️🔥🏔️

Today, we take on one of the most iconic climbs in cycling—the Col de l’Iseran, the highest paved pass in the Alpsat 2770m. This double ascent is a true high-altitude experience, with long, steady gradients, breathtaking scenery, and an epic sense of accomplishment at the summit.

Climb 1: Col de l’Iseran (Front Side – Long and Gradual)

🗻 Summit Elevation: 2770m | ⛰️ Climb Length: 47.4km
⚡ Avg Gradient: 4.3% | 🔥 Max Gradient: 8.6%

The front-side ascent from Bourg St Maurice is an epic endurance test, stretching nearly 50km in length. The gradients are steady but manageable, allowing riders to find a rhythm and settle into the climb. The lower slopes wind through forests and alpine meadows, before opening up into stunning high-mountain landscapes in the final stretch. At the summit, riders will be greeted by panoramic views and the feeling of conquering one of the most prestigious cols in the world.

Climb 2: Col de l’Iseran (Back Side – Steep and Relentless)

🗻 Summit Elevation: 2770m | ⛰️ Climb Length: 12.9km
⚡ Avg Gradient: 7.3% | 🔥 Max Gradient: 10.7%

After a thrilling descent, it’s time to turn around and climb back up from the opposite side—a shorter but significantly steeper ascent. The final kilometers will demand everything from the legs, with gradients creeping into double digits as we climb back into the thin air at nearly 2800m altitude.

The Reward

✔️ The satisfaction of conquering the highest paved road in the Alps – twice!
✔️ Unmatched high-mountain views with stunning alpine scenery
✔️ Fast, exhilarating descents back into Bourg St Maurice

After one of the most legendary rides of the tour, it’s time to celebrate a massive achievement and recover before the final days of riding. 🚴‍♂️🔥🏔️

We’ve saved the best for last! Today is the final ride of the tour, and it’s an absolute climbing masterpiece, tackling four Category 1 climbs that will test every ounce of strength left in the legs. From the rolling switchbacks of La Rosière to the steep ramps of Colle San Carlo, this is a grand finale worthy of the Alps.

Climb 1: La Rosière – A Tour de France Classic

🗻 Summit Elevation: 1855m | ⛰️ Climb Length: 15.8km
⚡ Avg Gradient: 5.7% | 🔥 Max Gradient: 8.8%

La Rosière is a perfect opening climb, used in recent Tour de France stages. The gradients are steady and manageable, but the final kilometers pack a punch. Expect wide, sweeping turns, stunning views of the valley, and a smooth climb to warm up the legs for the bigger challenges ahead.

Climb 2: Col du Petit St Bernard – The Border Pass into Italy

🗻 Summit Elevation: 2188m | ⛰️ Climb Length: 26.7km
⚡ Avg Gradient: 5.3% | 🔥 Max Gradient: 10.3%

A long but glorious climb, Col du Petit St Bernard is a true border crossing that links France and Italy. The ascent is gradual, allowing riders to settle into a rhythm, but as altitude increases, so does the difficulty. With a 10.3% max gradient lurking in the final kilometers, this climb demands focus and endurance. The reward? Stunning views at the summit and a thrilling descent into Italy.

Climb 3: Colle San Carlo – The Brutal Wall

🗻 Summit Elevation: 1972m | ⛰️ Climb Length: 5.9km
⚡ Avg Gradient: 8.2% | 🔥 Max Gradient: 15.8%

Colle San Carlo is a short but savage climb, one of the steepest of the tour. With an 8.2% average gradient and ramps over 15%, this relentless wall will push tired legs to the limit. The climb is narrow, steep, and surrounded by thick forests, creating an intense, leg-burning challenge before the final ascent of the tour.

Climb 4: Colle del Piccolo San Bernardo – The Grand Finale

🗻 Summit Elevation: 2188m | ⛰️ Climb Length: 23km
⚡ Avg Gradient: 5.2% | 🔥 Max Gradient: 10.1%

The final climb of the tour is a true Alpine giant, winding its way back into France with sweeping hairpins and long, steady gradients. The first half of the climb is relatively gentle, but the final 8km become more demanding, with double-digit gradients appearing just when the legs are at their limit. Cresting the summit of Piccolo San Bernardomarks the end of an unforgettable journey.

The Reward – A Fitting End to an Epic Tour

✔️ Four legendary climbs in one day, crossing borders between France & Italy
✔️ A mix of long, drawn-out ascents and brutally steep ramps
✔️ Breathtaking summit views, endless alpine scenery, and thrilling descents
✔️ The final post-ride celebration in Bourg St Maurice

After 12 days of epic riding, this final challenge is the perfect way to close the tour, leaving riders with one last monumental achievement before celebrating an unforgettable journey through the Alps. 🚴‍♂️🔥🏔️

You’ve conquered the Alps—time to raise a glass and celebrate like a champion! 🍾🎉