Travel from Grenoble to the hotel – installation – welcome meeting – bike delivery - and orientation of our program for the week. Local bus service is regular to Freney; or we can arrange a private transfer for a supplement. (D)



We don’t waste any time as we head out directly for warmups and some big climbs!

You may wish to ride down the valley toward Grenoble and return along a steady but gradual climb after which you can choose among Le Col de la Sarenne, Le Glandon, La Croix de Fer, the Col d' Ornon or Les Deux Alpes. (B,D)



A legendary day - This vertical climb of 1.120m (3.733 feet), 14 km (8.75 miles) long, gradients between 7.7 and 12% and 21 switchbacks is one of the most historical and heroic ones in the history of the Tour de France. Again, you can warm up with some miles in lower valleys around Bourg d’Oissans. There is an option to a timed ascent of the Alpe today - see details below. (B,D)



Today you will climb the Col du Lautaret (40kms – 25 miles) from Le Bourg d’Oisans, with a vertical climb of 1.400m (4.666 feet) and average gradients of 3.8 % (max 9%) – the climb to the Galibier is 8.5 km (5.3 miles) longer with a vertical climb of 585m (1.950 feet) with an average gradient of 6.9 % (12% max). The good news is you can come down afterward if you aren’t dizzy! (B,D)



Departure after breakfast – transfer to Grenoble TGV station. You may have time for another ride this morning before checkout at noon. Extra nights are possible if you wish to add on to this program. (B)

*Mens Journal Magazine January 2007 Issue

© 2008 Cycling Classics