Overview

Welcome to the Alps! Your Trek Travel guides will meet you at the Grenoble TGV train station at 11:00 AM for a scenic 90-minute shuttle to Allemond, tucked in the heart of the French Alps. After a light lunch and thorough bike fitting on your Trek Domane, you’ll spin out the legs on a warm-up ride featuring your first taste of alpine grandeur—the Balcony Road ascent to Alpe d’Huez. This winding route hugs the mountainside high above the Oisans Valley, offering dramatic views of the peaks and valley below. At the top, you’ll arrive at your home for the next five nights, the elegant Hotel Les Grandes Rousses, perfectly positioned to soak in the mountain vistas. Tonight, gather for a welcome social hour and dinner as you toast to the adventures ahead.

Overview

Today, we take on one of cycling’s most iconic climbs—Alpe d’Huez. Begin with a thrilling descent over the Col de Sarenne, dropping through alpine meadows and rugged peaks before reaching Le Bourg-d’Oisans—the hallowed base of Alpe d’Huez. After a light lunch and a chance to soak up the pre-Tour excitement, the challenge unfolds: 21 legendary switchbacks rising nearly 3,400 feet (1,036 m) over just nine miles (14 km). Every storied turn is numbered, each one a step closer to the summit. Push your limits, find your rhythm, and feel the burn give way to triumph at the top. Your guides will be there with full support, offering that extra bit of encouragement when you need it most. This evening, unwind at your own pace. Stroll through Alpe d’Huez, celebrate your climb, and enjoy dinner on your own wherever you choose. Your guides will be happy to recommend their favorite spots.

Overview

After a hearty breakfast, the road turns skyward once more as you set your sights on the legendary Col de la Croix de Fer—a true Alpine classic and part of this year’s Étape du Tour route. It’s the perfect test before Sunday’s big challenge. The climb begins in Le Bourg-d’Oisans, stretching 18 miles (29 km) at an average gradient of 5.2%, with ramps reaching up to 9%. Your Trek Travel guides will be supporting you all the way—providing encouragement, motivation, and snacks along the route. Midway up, a cozy mountain crêperie awaits with a well-earned lunch. Or, if you prefer, you can ride all the way to the summit, descend, and then enjoy your meal afterward. The day is yours—set your own pace and decide how much you want to push. After descending, you’ll shuttle back to Alpe d’Huez, or, if your legs are feeling strong, tackle a second ascent to sharpen your form. This evening, enjoy dinner on your own in the village—relax, explore, and let the excitement for race day build.

Overview

Take the day to recharge and get ready for tomorrow’s monumental ride. Ease into the morning with a short spin to loosen your legs, or rest up and take in the sweeping mountain views from the hotel terrace—whatever helps you feel your best for the full mountain stage ahead. Later, step right outside the hotel and immerse yourself in the buzz of the Étape du Tour. Lunch is on your own today, giving you the freedom to fuel however you like. Visit the race expo to pick up your official number, soak in the energy, and mingle with cyclists from around the world as the big day approaches. This evening, gather with your guides and fellow riders to review the course and share strategy—building confidence, camaraderie, and pre-race motivation. End the day with a hearty, carb-rich dinner and the shared excitement of what promises to be one of the most unforgettable rides of your life.

Overview

Today’s the day you’ll step into the shoes of a pro. You’ll rise early, fuel up with a hearty breakfast, then hop on the 20-minute shuttle to the start line, ready to ride alongside thousands of cyclists chasing the same dream. While the Trek Travel van cannot follow you on the course, your guides will be there to support you throughout the day, ready to cheer you on and provide assistance whenever needed. Your Trek Travel team will greet you at two exclusive private snack stops, stocked with delicious food, refreshing drinks, and plenty of encouragement. You’ll also have access to the public rest stops along the route whenever you’d like a quick break or refill. From Briançon, the course covers 105 miles (170 km) and over 14,700 feet (4,500 m) of climbing, featuring the Col de la Croix de Fer, the mighty Col du Galibier, and the punishing ascent of the Col de Sarenne, before the final approach to Alpe d’Huez. When you cross the finish line—victorious and exhilarated—you’ll be welcomed at our private finish celebration with a well-earned buffet and ice-cold beverages. Back at the hotel, take a short moment to relax before joining a social hour with your guides and fellow riders, toasting your accomplishments, celebrating one of the most unforgettable rides of your life, and enjoying a dinner worthy of champions.

Overview

It’s hard to believe the Étape du Tour adventure has come to an end. This morning is yours to rest, recover, and savor the satisfaction of conquering one of cycling’s greatest challenges. At 9:30 AM, your guides will say goodbye at Hotel Les Grandes Rousses as you board a private shuttle to Grenoble train station, arriving around 11:00 AM. Please schedule departing trains after 11:30 AM. For onward travel, Paris (CDG) and Lyon (LYS) are the most convenient airports, both easily reached by train from Grenoble. Until we meet again, we hope you carry the thrill of the ride with you until our next adventure together!