“We were blown away. Our expectations were exceeded beyond belief.” —Greg

French Alpes Tour: Alpes and Ventoux

Name: French Alpes Tour: Alpes and Ventoux
Brand: BikeTours.com
SKU: bt48x1246
Rating: 5 (7 reviews)

★★★★★5/5 (7)

7 nights

53 miles/day

Self guided from EUR € 2550
Bike tour in France

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Discover the phenomenal beauty of the arresting French Alpes

This cycling tour allows you to experience for yourself the most legendary climbs of the world-famous Tour de France: conquer the commanding Col de la Croix de Fer, cycle to the top of the awe-inspiring Alpe d'Huez, climb the captivating Col du Galibier, and ascend the magnificent Mont Ventoux! Along the way, enjoy the spectacular natural beauty of the astounding French Alpes and explore charming Provencal villages.

If you're an experienced and passionate cyclist seeking out the ultimate challenge, then this French Alpes and Mont Ventoux cycling vacation is definitely for you!
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Highlights
- Col du Lautaret
- Col du Glandon
- La Croix-de-Fer
- L’Alpe d’Huez
- Le Col du Galibier
- Mont Ventoux
- Challenging climbs
- Tour de France routes
Learn More

Learn more about self-guided tours.
CC-BY-ND-2.0 - Wine tasting in France! NwongPR@Flickr' data-type='image'>

CC-BY-ND-2.0 - Fine dining in France! vinhosprovence@Flickr' data-type='image'>

CC-BY-SA-3.0 - Chris Froome & Nairo Quintana taking on Mont Ventoux, 2013 Tour de France. Marianne Casamance@Unsplash' data-type='image'>

CC-BY-SA-3.0 - Mont Ventoux in France. Minova@Flickr' data-type='image'>

CC-BY-2.0 - Chateauneuf-du-Pape Wine from Avignon, France. Patrick Gaudin@Flickr' data-type='image'>

CC-BY-SA-3.0 - Mont Ventoux. BlueBreezeViki@Flickr' data-type='image'>

CC-BY-SA-4.0 - Avignon, Provence, France. CC:Otavignon' data-type='image'>

CC-BY-SA-3.0 - Rhône River in Avignon, Provence, France. CC:Rolf Sussbrich' data-type='image'>

Traveler photos
French Alpes Tour

Tour Description Daily Program
Daily program

Day 1: Arrival
Travel from Grenoble to the hotel in Le Freney-d'Oisans where you'll be welcomed with an introductory meeting, orientation, and bike setup. Stay in a charming hotel in Le Freney-d'Oisans.

Overnight in Le Freney-d’Oisans.

Day 2: Loop ride to Col du Glandon and La Croix-de-Fer (68 miles/110 km; elevation gain 11,880 feet/3,621 m)
The first climbs of the tour take place today - Le Glandon and La Croix-de-Fer. La Croix-de-Fer is a very long and irregular col! When you reach the crossroad with the Glandon, you can make a small detour of 1 mile (1.5 km) to reach the top of La Croix-de-Fer and enjoy the excellent view. This pass has been included in the Tour de France numerous times, for the first time in 1947, and most recently in 2022. The total ascent is 11,880 ft/3,621 m.

Overnight in Le Freney-d'Oisans.

Day 3: Loop ride to Alpe d’Huez (option: 30 miles/49 km; elevation gain 5,748 feet/1,752 m or 43 miles/69 km; elevation gain 7,034 feet/2,144 m)
A legendary day. This vertical climb up the Alpe d'Huez is nearly 9 miles long (14 km), 3,733 ft high (1,120 m), and features gradients between 7.7% and 12%, as well as switchbacks that make it one of the most historic and heroic sections of the Tour de France. The ride is 49 km, but you'll have the option to climb Les Deux Alpes as well (total distance would be 37 miles/69 km).

Overnight in Le Freney-d'Oisans.

Day 4: Loop ride to Col du Galibier (42 miles/67 km; elevation gain 6,677 feet/2,035 m)
Today features two tough but rewarding climbs - the Col du Lautaret and the Col du Galibier. You'll climb the Col du Lautaret (25 ft/40 km) from the village of Le Bourg-d'Oisans. The vertical climb is 4,593 ft/1,400 m, with an average gradient of 3.8% (max 9%). If that's not enough, you'll then tackle the climb to the Galibier (5.3 miles/8.5 km), featuring a vertical climb of 1,950 ft/585 m and an average gradient of 6.9% (max 12%).

Overnight in Freney-d'Oisans.

Day 5: Bedoin and Mount Ventoux
Depart from the Alpes after breakfast with a 10:00 am transfer to the village of Bedoin at the foot of Mont Ventoux. Allow 4 hours travel time. In Bedoin, you'll have free time to explore the village or relax in preparation for the rides ahead.

Overnight in Bedoin.

Day 6: Loop ride to Mont Ventoux (options: 40 miles/64 km, elevation gain 3,550 feet/1,082 m; 45 miles/73 km, elevation gain 4,944 feet/1,507 m; or 55 miles/89 km, elevation gain 6,496 feet/1,980 m)
Today you'll conquer the magnificent Mont Ventoux. The itinerary begins with a warm-up ride between the vineyards of Bédoin, followed by the challenging climb and descent of Mont Ventoux. Climbing this mountain is an experience that will stay with you for a long time! Total ascent is 6,496 ft/1,980 m (if you choose the 55 mile ride).

Overnight in Bedoin.

Day 7: Loop ride to Beaume de Venise (55 miles/89 km)
Enjoy a beautiful ride through the vineyards of Ventoux and the Rhône Valley. You'll pass through the wine villages of Beaumes de Venise, Vacqueyras, Gigondas, and the more famous wine villages of the Upper Vaucluse before you return to Bedoin.

Overnight in Bedoin.

Day 8: Transfer to Avignon – Departure
Departure after breakfast. Transfer to Avignon included.

Surface and terrain

The proposed climbs have an elevation of between 2,397 feet (719 m) and 8,520 feet (2,556 m). Gradients vary between between 3.8% and 12%.

Hotels

These are sample hotels and may vary based on availability.

3-star hotels

Freney-d'Oisans: Hotel Cassini

Bedoin: Hotel Les Pins

Note: upgraded hotel options are possible; please inquire for pricing.

Interested in visiting other areas before or after your tour? Visit our hotels page to learn more about lodging options.

How to get there

Tour start
Nearest airport: Turin (TRN)
Nearest train station: Grenoble

Tour end
Nearest airport: Avignon (AVN)
Nearest train station: Avignon

The local bus service from Grenoble is regular to Freney-d'Osains, or we can arrange a private transfer for an additional fee. Please inquire at the time of booking. Return transfer to Avignon at the end of the tour is included.

French Alpes Tour

Tour Photos Dates & Prices
Dates
Daily: Jun 1-Sep 15, 2024

Prices

Tour package

Per person, double occupancy €2550

Single use room (1 person/1 room) €2923

Solo traveler (1 person in party with single use room) €3270
Included services
- 7 nights accommodations in 3-star hotels
- 7 dinners and breakfasts
- All luggage transfers
- Detailed road book, including details maps, touristic information, step by step itinerary and cue sheets and comprehensive trip literature
- Technical and emergency support available at all times
- Orientation via telephone
- Road bike rental
- Transfer from Freney d'Oisans to Bedoin and Mont Ventoux (on Day 5 of program)
- Garmin GPS OREGON (1 per 3 persons)
Bike rentals

Bikes available and included in the tour cost (must be booked in advance):
- Road bikes
Equipment included:
- Saddlebag containing toolkit, tire levers, patch kit, 2 spare tubes
- Helmet
- Odometer
- Lock
Additional details about the road bikes:

Model: Canondale, Synapse Carbon 105 6
Cannondale's carbon construction method uses precisely placed high stiffness fibers over a base of high tensile strength fibers and high impact resins to deliver extreme light weight and perfectly tuned stiffness, without sacrificing strength. Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL
- Frame: Synapse, BallisTec Carbon, Di2 ready, SAVE PLUS, BB30A
- Fork: Synapse SAVE PLUS, BallisTec Carbon, 1-1/8" to 1-1/4" tapered steerer Headset: Synapse Si, 1-1/4" lower bearing, 25mm top cap
- Chain ring & crank arms: Shimano 105; 50/34 for front. Rear is 11-speed , 11/32 Brakes: Shimano 105
- Stem: Cannondale C4 Alloy, 31.8, 6 deg.
- Saddle: Cannondale Stage Ergo w/ Crmo Rails
- Seat post: Cannondale C3, 6061 Alloy, 25.4x300mm (48-51) 350mm (54-61) Tires: Schwalbe Lugano, 700x25c
Tandem bikes are available to rent for an additional fee.

Pedals:
The bikes will have flat pedals. If you bring your own pedals, be sure to bring your own shoes and also the necessary equipment to change the pedals.

Helmets:
Helmet rental is available on this tour; however, we recommend that you bring your own helmet for safety and hygiene purposes.

Bike Protection:
Bike protection can be purchased at the time of booking. You can read more about that HERE.

Tour Company
French Alpes Tour

Daily program Tour Reviews
Reviews

Write a review
- ★★★★★ mdoyler September 5, 2019
  
  Once in a lifetime
  
  What an amazing trip. My wife and I will be talking about these rides for the rest of our lives. The accommodations were great, and the meals were an absolute delight. Don't be afraid to do an unguided trip such as this, it was incredibly safe and easy to navigate
  
  What was the date of your tour?
  8/22 - 8/29
  How many tours have you completed?
  0
  Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
  As expected
  Who is this tour suitable for?
  Solo travelers, First-time bike tourists
  Do you recommend this tour?
  Yes
  - 4/5 Value
  - 5/5 Included meals
  - 5/5 Bikes + equipment
  - 5/5 Hotels or boat
  - 5/5 Scenery
  - 4/5 Ease of navigation
  - 4/5 Tour documents
  - 5/5 Local tour company services
  - 5/5 Route selection
- ★★★★★ oldjoe June 19, 2018
  
  Fantastic scenery!
  
  A great mix of Alpine and Provence scenery. Wonderful small hotels with charming hosts and gourmet food! Challenging but not intimidating terrain with easy navigation. Would love to go back!
  
  What was the date of your tour?
  6/1-7/18
  How many tours have you completed?
  5
  Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
  As expected
  Who is this tour suitable for?
  Solo travelers
  Do you recommend this tour?
  Yes
  - 4/5 Value
  - 5/5 Included meals
  - 4/5 Bikes + equipment
  - 5/5 Hotels or boat
  - 5/5 Scenery
  - 4/5 Ease of navigation
  - 4/5 Tour documents
  - 3/5 Local tour company services
  - 5/5 Route selection
- ★★★★★ Romeo July 29, 2016
  
  Bubba Goes to France
  
  Guides were Fantastic! The Accomodations were great! The food was Tremendous! The guides were able to adjust our rides on the "fly" to accommodate our hunger for more suffering. They made it so easy for us. The all inclusive aspect of this, meant we could focus on our riding only without worry about eating, transferring from place to place, etc. I can't wait for Bubba France 2!
  
  What was the date of your tour?
  July 2016
  How many tours have you completed?
  This is my First
  Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
  Somewhat easier
  Who is this tour suitable for?
  Solo travelers, First-time bike tourists
  Do you recommend this tour?
  Yes
  - 5/5 Value
  - 5/5 Included meals
  - 5/5 Bikes + equipment
  - 4/5 Hotels or boat
  - 5/5 Scenery
  - 5/5 Ease of navigation
  - 4/5 Tour documents
  - 5/5 Route selection
  - 5/5 Guides (if applicable)
- ★★★★★ Hillbilly July 8, 2016
  
  Bubba Goes to France
  
  After many months of training, our local group, Team Bubba, went to France to take on the Alps and Ventoux. I can't say enough good things about the local guides and the hospitality they showed us, as well as our wives, who went with us. Having local guides was definitely a distinct advantage. We are already planning our next trip to the Pyrenees.
  
  What was the date of your tour?
  6/19-6/25
  How many tours have you completed?
  0
  Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
  As expected
  Do you recommend this tour?
  Yes
  - 5/5 Value
  - 5/5 Included meals
  - 5/5 Bikes + equipment
  - 5/5 Hotels or boat
  - 5/5 Scenery
  - 5/5 Tour documents
  - 5/5 Local tour company services
  - 5/5 Route selection
  - 5/5 Guides (if applicable)
- ★★★★★ Garmin July 5, 2016
  
  Outstanding
  
  Trip was personalized to everyone's needs. Guides were excellent!
  
  What was the date of your tour?
  6/25/16
  How many tours have you completed?
  1
  Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
  As expected
  Who is this tour suitable for?
  Solo travelers, First-time bike tourists, Families with young kids, Families with teens
  Do you recommend this tour?
  No
  - 4/5 Value
  - 5/5 Included meals
  - 5/5 Bikes + equipment
  - 5/5 Hotels or boat
  - 5/5 Scenery
  - 5/5 Ease of navigation
  - 5/5 Tour documents
  - 5/5 Local tour company services
  - 5/5 Route selection
  - 5/5 Guides (if applicable)
- ★★★★★ Doktar July 2, 2016
  
  What was the date of your tour?
  6/25
  How many tours have you completed?
  1st one
  Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
  Somewhat easier
  Who is this tour suitable for?
  First-time bike tourists
  Do you recommend this tour?
  Yes
  - 5/5 Value
  - 5/5 Included meals
  - 5/5 Bikes + equipment
  - 5/5 Hotels or boat
  - 5/5 Scenery
  - 5/5 Ease of navigation
  - 5/5 Tour documents
  - 5/5 Local tour company services
  - 5/5 Route selection
  - 5/5 Guides (if applicable)
- ★★★★★ Greg3904 June 30, 2016
  
  Best Vacation Ever!
  
  My wife and I were blown away with the trip. We had never been to Europe and had no idea what to expect. Our expectations were exceeded beyond belief. It was a fantastic experience!
  
  What was the date of your tour?
  6/18/2016
  How many tours have you completed?
  First time
  Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
  Much easier
  Who is this tour suitable for?
  First-time bike tourists
  Do you recommend this tour?
  Yes
  - 5/5 Value
  - 5/5 Included meals
  - 5/5 Bikes + equipment
  - 5/5 Hotels or boat
  - 5/5 Scenery
  - 5/5 Ease of navigation
  - 5/5 Tour documents
  - 5/5 Local tour company services
  - 5/5 Route selection
  - 5/5 Guides (if applicable)
French Alpes Tour

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