France
Avid
Annecy, France | Grenoble, France
Annecy to Col de la Croix Fry, to La Clusaz
Approximately 23 miles with 4,800 feet of climbing
Welcome to the Alps! A short drive through the bustling heart of Annecy leads you and your new traveling companions around Lake Annecy, the cleanest lake in all of Europe, to the start of your adventure. After a light lunch and a thorough bike fitting, your guides will take you on a challenging ride through the alpine hills and over the Col du Bluffy and Col de la Croix Fry. The perfect warm up ride, the Croix Fry climb has been featured in the Tour de France four times, most recently in 2013 and will be the first climb for the peloton tomorrow. We'll roll into our luxurious 5-star hotel nestled in the chic ski town of La Clusaz and perfectly located to enjoy live race action tomorrow. Take your time relax and unpack before gathering with the group for a welcome reception and dinner at the hotel.
Au Coeur du Village
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Rest Day
Lunch | Social Hour | Dinner
La Clusaz to Col de la Colombière return
Approximately 30 miles with 555 feet of climbing
La Clusaz to Col de la Colombière to Col de Romme return
Approximately 38 miles with 6,400 feet of climbing
Official VIP race access passes to finish of Stage 10
Behind the Scenes with Trek-Segafredo team cocktail hour and bus tour
Today you'll rise early to beat the peloton and tackle the race course just a few hours ahead of the pros. Cruise down the valley to Le Grand Bornand and the base of the Col de la Colombière, the final category 1 climb of today's stage. It’s a spectacular climb just shy of 12 kilometers with an average gradient of 5.9%. Choose to continue riding onto the Col de Romme, one of the highest passes in the northern Alps before returning to the hotel for lunch. A short shuttle will bring you to Le Grand Bornand where we'll watch the arrival of the racers from aboard an official VIP luxury open-top bus close to the finish line. This exclusive viewing location is head-and-shoulders above the crowd and fully equipped with an open bar and plasma TV screens, so you don’t miss any of the action! This evening, we'll mingle with team representatives during our exclusive Trek-Segafredo cocktail hour Q&A session, tour of the team bus, and meeting with the team’s mechanics to talk specs and techs with an up-close view of their ultimate Trek racing bikes. Take it all in and prepare for more live race action this week.
Au Coeur du Village
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Stage 10: Annecy – Le Grand-Bornand
Breakfast | Lunch | Social Hour | Dinner
Saint Jean de Maurienne to Col de La Croix de Fer to Venosc w/cable car to Les Deux Alpes
Approximately 55 miles with 8,800 feet of climbing
La Chambre to Lacets de Montvernier to Col de La Croix de Fer to Venosc w/cable car to les Deuz Alpes
Approximately 77 miles with 10,400 feet of climbing
We'll live the pro, Tour-de-France lifestyle today, complete with a ride on the race course just 24 hours before the peloton takes it on! After a hearty alpine breakfast, your day starts with a private shuttle to Saint Jean de Maurienne where your bikes will be prepped and ready to ride. Choose to start your day with the 18 switchbacks of the Lacets de Montvernier, which made its first Tour appearance in 2015 or head straight for the summit of the Col de la Croix de Fer, tomorrow's penultimate climb with an ascent of 18 miles and 5,000ft of climbing. These juxtaposed climbs have made and broken champions in the history of the Tour, with extended steep pitches and long, open ramps begging for a follow helicopter, every rider is rewarded with unique views of these spectacular mountains. Pause for lunch and to stretch your legs before the long descent of the Col du Glandon followed by a cruise along the valley to a quintessential Alps experience: ascending via cable car to the Chalet Mounier. Our luxury mountain chalet has been in the same family for over 100 years, you’ll be sure to feel like family staying there! This evening we'll gather for dinner to savor the famous Savoie cuisine of the region. Rest well and get ready for the excitement of the live race action on Alpe d'Huez tomorrow!
Chalet Mounier
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Stage 11: Albertville – La Rosière
Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Les Deux Alpes to Alpe d'Huez to Venosc
Approximately 42 miles with 5,200 feet of climbing
Les Deux Alpes to Alpe d'Huez Loop
Approximately 47 miles with 8,400 feet of climbing
Official VIP race access passes to ride over finish line on Alpe D'huez
We'll begin today with a descent to the base of Alpe d'Huez in the cool morning air. Words can’t do justice to the scene, as hundreds of people line the roads to see this exciting mountaintop finish unfold. Intercept the race course and climb back up the legendary 21 switchbacks for a race day ascent like nothing you’ve ever experienced. You'll ride the final stretch of the race course with VIP passes accompanied by an official race escort car, just like the pros! Feel the Tour glory as you crest the summit and rocket across the finish, before climbing the Official Tour podium with your fellow Trek Travelers for an unforgettable souvenir photo opportunity. Afterwards, enjoy a relaxing lunch and live TV coverage of the race as the pros approach the dramatic finish on the mountain's summit. Take your spot on the roadside as the caravan passes through and the tension builds as the first climber appears around the bend. This is the mountain stage, where attackers come for glory and the winner will forever be etched into the history of this sacred mountain. Will they boast tonight's yellow jersey? Once the race has finished, choose to shuttle or ride back to Les Deux Alpes on a little-known balcony road, dramatically carved out rock on the side of the Alp. Tonight, you are free to relax and explore this enchanting town for dinner.
Chalet Mounier
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Stage 13: Bourg-Saint-Maurice Les Arcs - Alpe d'Huez
Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Les Deux Alpes to Bourg d'Oisans to St. Christophe to Venosc
Approximately 45 miles with 4,700 feet of climbing
Official VIP race access passes to the departure village in Le Bourg D'oisans
This morning, after savoring your café au lait and pain au chocolat, you’ll head to Le Bourg d'Oisans for, yet another exciting day immersed in all the behind-the-scenes action at the start of the final alpine stage. We have your coveted VIP passes to the official departure village where you'll be able to snap a photo of the pros as they prepare for today’s stage. Position yourself to watch the start of the race and cheer on riders as they begin their final stage in the Alps. After this exhilarating, once-in-a-lifetime stage start we'll ride up the untouched Bérarde Valley–shrouded by soaring peaks–to the tiny shepherd’s hamlet of St. Christophe, nestled at the foot of the stout Massif des Écrins. Once back at the hotel gather for drinks and witness the stage finish on TV as the pros battle their way out of the Alps. Tonight, toast to the Alps, their epic ascents, the riders who conquer them and an unforgettable week at the Tour!
Chalet Mounier
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Stage 14: Le Bourg d'Oisans- Valence
Breakfast | Lunch | Social Hour | Dinner
Les Deux Alpes to Les Travers Balcony Road
Approximately 17 miles with 3000 feet of climbing
Rise early for one more spin in the Alps. It’s a quick but beautiful loop along the balcony road of Les Deux Alpes. If you’d rather skip the ride, you're welcome to sleep and enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel. A private Trek Travel shuttle will depart from the hotel at 11:00 AM. You’ll then say farewell to your guides at Chalet Mounier. Please do not schedule a train out of Grenoble before 1:00 PM on the last day of the trip to allow plenty of time for any unforeseen delays.
Breakfast
Stage 15: Saint-Paul-Trois-Châteaux – Mende
Official Tour Operator of the Tour de France
Experience the race as a VIP
Ride the best bikes with first-class support
RACE SUPPORT & EXPERTISE:
Each of our race trips has a minimum of two First Class Guides. If a group size gets above 20 persons, you will have additional guides to ensure that you always enjoy superior customer service. You never ride alone. We support you both on and off the bike. We always have one guide in our support vehicle and the other cycling alongside you. Our race trip guides have the experience and mechanical skills necessary to keep you riding comfortably at your best in all conditions. They bring years of experience managing the trip logistics of pro race itineraries and stage viewings. They’ll fill up your water bottles, change your tire, shuttle you over the hill, provide you with local insight and make sure everyone is on the right track. Off the bike, your guides are at your service to help you with anything you need—massage appointments, wine suggestions, or finding that special local treat you’re craving.
PRO LEVEL EQUIPMENT:
When it comes to bikes, we set the standard. Included in the price of your trip is the choice to ride one of our unprecedented premium quality Trek bicycles. We have one of the largest selections of bike styles, frame sizes and equipment to ensure that your bike is perfectly fitted to you.
UNRIVALED PRO RIDER ACCESS:
Guests will enjoy at least one pro rider access opportunity per race access trip, including but not limited to the following types of events: exclusive rider Q&A sessions, team bus tours, guided visits with team mechanics, social hours with riders and staff.
SIGNATURE RACE VIEWINGS & ACCESS:
We don’t want you to miss anything. After all, it’s all a part of being exposed to the races and the regions. All of the VIP race access, citizens’ ride entry fees (as applicable), and cultural events that are mentioned in your itinerary are covered in the cost of your trip. Race trip itineraries include at least two live race viewings, sometimes including race-organized VIP stage start or finish access. Guests enjoy prime stage viewing locations complete with front row seating, catered lunches, live TV broadcasts, and pro rider appearances (whenever possible).
SIGNATURE ACCOMMODATIONS & MEALS:
Our race trip designer selects hotels with the best locations to get you up close access to the race routes for riding and viewing the stages. Typically, race trip itineraries will feature a mix of 3- and 4-star hotels. On our race trips, the cuisine is fresh and local. Our dinners will range from casual tapas to multi-course dinners. Breakfast is served each morning at the hotel. Lunches will offer a bounty of local specialties, from fabulous picnics to local fare at quaint bistros.
We reward our guests with lower pricing and more dates to choose from the earlier you book. Rest assured, once you book, your price is guaranteed.
What is Single Occupancy?
Sometimes it’s more convenient and comfortable to have your own room while on vacation. We understand and that’s why we offer a Single Occupancy option. The additional price guarantees a private room all to yourself.
Located at the foot of the ski slopes of La Clusaz, this hotel combines 5-star luxury with high alpine style. Enjoy a visit to the Cristal spa or gourmet restaurant, and rest your head in one of 48 comfortably-appointed suites. It's sure to be a stay to remember!
"This property is situated in the prime location to ride the most prestigious cols of France including those featured in this year’s Tour de France. Enjoy incredible views of the Alps at a top-rated, chalet-style hotel featuring a spa and two pools so you can relax and recover from the week's epic riding.
Every moment of a Trek Travel bike trip has more than you could have ever dreamed. More romance. More scenery. More choice. It's the little additions to every Trek Travel cycling vacation that make it truly special. And that’s how we help you create more memories.
Gratuities for your Trek Travel guides are not included in your trip price. We recommend tipping 7.5-10% of your trip price for the guide team. Local currency is preferred and unless you want to tip separately, guides will divide tips amongst themselves. Please tip your guides at your discretion, based on their level of professionalism, guest care and service.
Our itineraries are an approximation of our trips. Trek Travel strives to offer each and every guest a vacation of a lifetime on every trip. At times routes, hotels, activities, etc. listed here may change at the discretion of the trip designer or guides to improve the trip experience.
On all of our vacations, Trek Travel strives to find quiet, paved secondary roads or bike paths to experience a region; busy roads are avoided as much as possible. Alps One is best suited for our Type 4 Riders. Our Trek Travel guides can also easily accommodate Type 3 Riders, who seek less mileage or fewer uphills, with a boost in the van. Those who wish to ride every mile but are concerned about their physical ability may want to try our electric bike option–you still get a workout but can climb alongside even the strongest rider. The terrain is challenging, with stunning views and quiet roads. You will be invigorated by the fresh mountain air and will take in wonderful vistas.
On most Trek Travel trips, we offer non-riding options for riders who want to take the afternoon off, or travel companions who want to spend little or no time in the saddle. Some of these options may need to be scheduled before your trip–please contact one of our Trip Consultants for more information. Expenses and/or related transportation to these activities may not be included in the trip price. See Included In The Trip Price for more information. Some non-riding options on this trip are:
The summer months in the Alps are typically warm with daily temperatures ranging from the mid 60's to low 80's, and evenings dropping to the mid 50's to mid 60's. When traveling in the Alps it is best to be prepared for variable conditions as weather can change very quickly. We recommend always traveling with rain gear as well as breathable layers to provide warmth when the temperature drops.
If you’re going we’re going on almost all our trips. Trips with 1 guest booked are guaranteed to run. Select trips like Cross Country, Race and Special Edition trips require a minimum number of guests to run and are not guaranteed until that number is reached. Contact your Trip Consultant for more details.
In the event that a departure has low enrollment, we will notify guests at 60-90 days before departure to give the option to select a different date with more guests booked. Please do not reserve airfare before confirming your Trek Travel trip.
When a trip is booked, a guest confirmation letter is immediately sent out. One week prior to the trip start you will receive an email containing a trip start meeting location reminder and any last minute information that you will need to know before your trip. Once you arrive at your destination Trek Travel staff will brief you on the day-to-day plan for the trip and provide you with daily route guides and a detailed map allowing you to ride with complete confidence and independence.
Please review our packing list page for more details.
We understand things happen in life and sometimes you have to cancel or change your bike tour. We want to make it as easy as possible to do so and below you will find our timeline. If you ever have a question, just give us a call, 866 464 8735. Read our cancellation policy.
Didn't find what you were looking for? Check out our General FAQs section. You will find answers to all the most common questions that don't necessarily pertain to a specific trip.
We suggest that you arrive at least one day prior to the trip start, which will enable you to adjust to the time zone and minimize the risk of missing the trip start due to flight-related delays. We recommend that you fly into Paris (CDG).
From Paris, take a TGV train to Annecy, either from the TGV station at Charles de Gaulle Airport or from the Gare de Lyon in Paris. Please consult www.voyages-sncf.com to book your tickets.
Annecy Train Station | Annecy, France
Your Trek Travel guides will meet you at the Annecy Train Station (Place de la Gare, 74000 Annecy, France) at 11:30 AM on the first day of the trip. We’ll then take a short private shuttle to our lunch spot on the side of Lake Annecy, where your guides will make sure you are perfectly fit to your bike. Please have your first day cycling clothes and riding gear easily accessible, separate from your luggage.
If you will be late for the pick-up or will miss it altogether, please inform your guides. You will receive an email a week before the trip start with their names and contact details. If you cannot reach them, please call our first hotel Au Coeur du Village (+33 (0)4 50 01 50 01) and leave a message with your expected arrival time and contact details. You may take a taxi from the train station to your first hotel for approximately $100.
Chalet Mounier | Les Deux Alps, France
You will say farewell to your guides at 11:00 AM at the Chalet Mounier. You’ll then travel by shuttle to Grenoble Train Station, arriving at around 12:15 PM. Please allow adequate connection time for any ongoing travel to accommodate any possible traffic delays.
Gorgeous Annecy! Guided tours of historic Annecy allow you to discover the medieval aspects of the town and visit buildings dating back to the Renaissance and 12th century. Hiking trails are numerous, covering diverse terrain, offering spectacular views all around, and water activities are bountiful along the lake. Paragliding is world-renowned in Annecy, boasting some of the world’s best and providing, literally, a bird’s eye view of the lake and surrounding mountains. Be sure to lounge in the park by the lake, just across from the town center, or linger at a café or ice cream parlor surrounded by flowers.
Located in a park on Lake Annecy, L'Imperial Palace houses the Casino Imperial, as well as one of the most famous convention centers in France. It has been fully remodeled and includes both a fitness and a beauty center with a sauna and steam bath. 98 rooms.
32 Avenue Albigny | +33 (0)4 50 09 30 00 | www.Hotel-Imperial-Palace.com | ~$315
This is a residence-style hotel that dates from the early 1900’s, with a shaded terrace overlooking the swimming pool and a beautiful view of the lake. 48 rooms.
3 Boulevard Corniche | +33 (0)4 50 51 43 84 | www.LesTresoms.com | ~$250
This recently renovated hotel is ideally located between the lake and the mountains. The Splendid Hotel sits across from the shores of Lake Annecy, the cleanest lake in all of France, and is perfectly nestled in the heart of the old town.
4, Quai Eustache Chappuis | +33 (0)4 50 45 20 00 | www.Splendidhotel.fr | ~$160
Grenoble offers numerous outdoor activities, including via ferrata, a mountain route equipped with fixed cables, ladders, and bridges providing access to otherwise isolated routes to climbers with a variety of skills. Not to be missed in this Rhone-Alpes town is a ride on the téléphérique: egg-shaped cable cars, les bulles, take you across the Isère River to the Bastille, a series of ancient fortifications. Enjoy the view from the summit, then wander the many trails leading down to the city. We recommend the following accommodations for your post-trip hotel:
Situated adjacent to the Paul Mistral Park in the center of Grenoble, the city’s only 4-star hotel is sure to win you over with its elegance and charm.
10 Place Paul Mistral | +33 (0)4 76 85 81 23 | www.park-hotel-grenoble.fr/en | ~$150
A historic hotel built in 1870, the Grand Hotel Grenoble Hyper Centre is located in the heart of the Alps capital. The Bastille cable railway, the Antique dealers district, the Grenoble museum and its theater are less than 5 minutes on foot from the Grand Hotel. Located close to Grenoble’s city center, this 4 star hotel offers you many of the modern comforts you enjoy.
5 rue de la République 38000 Grenoble | +33 (0)4 76 51 22 59 | www.grand-hotel-grenoble.com | ~$150
This Belle Epoque hotel (1906), with modern conveniences, such as air-conditioning and WiFi, is conveniently located just across the street from the Grenoble train station.
10, place de la Gare | +33 (0) 4 76 87 24 33 | www.Terminus-Hotel-Grenoble.fr | ~$175
