2024 TDF Tourmalet, Ventoux and Alpe d’Huez

Prepare for an unforgettable ascent up the legendary Tourmalet, one of cycling’s most iconic mountains. Experience the thrill of riding the Tour de France route without the usual road closures, surrounded by the enthusiasm of fans and camper vans—a truly unparalleled experience.

Starting from our hotel, we’ll traverse the bike path to Argeles and embark on our journey towards the base of the famed Col du Tourmalet, a legendary climb in Tour de France history. The Western ascent, spanning 19km, promises a challenging yet rewarding ride. Upon reaching the summit, revel in the breathtaking views before descending back down the valley to our hotel, concluding a day filled with remarkable cycling achievements and awe-inspiring vista.

Today marks our up-close encounter with the Tour de France. Beginning early, we depart from our hotel, heading to Arreau at the base of the Col d’Aspin. Riding over the Col d’Aspin, we merge with today’s race route, journeying through La Hourquette d’Ancizan and descending into the valley. We will catch the race as they begin the  final climb for the day, granting a prime view of the Tour de France as they fight for position as they enter the descent. After witnessing this thrilling stage, we’ll transfer to our next hotel, capping off a day immersed in the electrifying atmosphere of the Tour de France and the sheer excitement of cycling along its prestigious routes.

Today promises an exhilarating stage start experience of the Tour de France. Setting off early from the hotel, we’ll cycle along today’s race route, making our way to Loudenvielle. Stage starts offer a fantastic chance to witness your favourite riders up close and seize a photo opportunity. Once we’ve soaked in the energy of the stage departure, we’ll follow the race route by bike, journeying over the challenging Col de Peyresourde, and ultimately returning to our hotel.

This day offers an up-close encounter with the Tour de France’s electrifying atmosphere, showcasing the thrill of a stage start and the scenic adventure of riding along the prestigious race route.

Following challenging rides in the Pyrenees, we leap ahead of the Tour de France, journeying on our luxury coach from the Pyrenees to Provence, ready to join the race in its climactic final week.

As we enter Provence, the landscape undergoes a dramatic shift, transforming from the lush greenery of the Pyrenees to the striking white stone and earthy terrain, adorned with magnificent olive groves. Upon arrival and settling into our new location, the late afternoon offers an opportunity to explore the area’s enchanting surroundings. We’ll reunite for a shared dinner, brimming with anticipation for the upcoming excitement, as we prepare to immerse ourselves in the thrilling stages ahead in Provence.

Today refocuses on the professional cyclists as sprinters prepare for an intense showdown in Nimes. After enduring challenging mountain stages, the sprinters gear up for a chance at victory in the 178km flat stage leading into Nimes.

Prior to the racing excitement, the morning offers a gentler ride from our hotel to the awe-inspiring Pont du Gard. Celebrated as a marvel of Roman engineering, this grand aqueduct, constructed during Emperor Augustus’s reign in 19BC, served to transport fresh water across a 45km expanse. Following our ride, we’ll journey to Nimes, ready to witness the sprinters in action, poised for high-speed thrills on this exhilarating stage.

Today, we’ll journey north from our hotel by bike, tracing the path along the Rhône River to reach the town of Saint Paul Trois Châteaux for the start of stage 17 in the Tour de France. As the race enters its most challenging phase, this presents an opportunity to witness closely the contenders vying for the coveted yellow jersey and those determined to complete the Tour.

Following the thrill of today’s stage start, we’ll return to our hotel and indulge in a relaxing afternoon. Meanwhile, the General Classification contenders engage in an intense battle, setting the stage for an evening of unwinding after a day filled with the excitement and competitiveness of the Tour de France.

Setting off in the refreshing morning, our journey begins in Bédoin, marking the start of an epic ride. Starting with several kilometres before the arduous climb to Ventoux truly begins, the challenge unfolds. With a total length of 21.5 km at an average 7.45% gradient, reaching the renowned tower at the summit demands steady resolve—pacing yourself is key, to avoiding draining your energy too soon.

Traversing through the mystical forest towards Ventoux adds to the enigmatic allure of the ascent until reaching Chalet Reynard, merely 6 km from the summit. Beyond this point lies an otherworldly moonscape of Ventoux, a surreal environment, unlike any other in your riding experience.

The summit awaits with an abundance of treats from the vendors and sweeping views across the Luberon Valley. This unforgettable accomplishment prompts reflection and celebration before descending back to Bédoin, concluding the day with well-deserved revelry in honour of our extraordinary ride.

Today marks our departure from Provence, transitioning into the magnificent Alpes for the concluding days of our tour. Along our journey, we’ll pause in Embrun, a pivotal spot to witness stage 19, a critical day in the high mountains for riders aspiring to claim the podium’s top step.

After immersing ourselves in the excitement of this crucial stage, we’ll venture deeper into the Alpes, preparing for the upcoming two enchanting days of riding. This marks the prelude to the exhilarating experiences and challenges that await us in these breathtaking mountainous terrains, as we draw closer to the grand culmination of our cycling adventure.

Today, we embark on an iconic journey to the most renowned climb in the French Alps—the legendary Alpe d’Huez, a pinnacle of the Tour de France. With its celebrated 21 switchbacks, this climb traditionally draws up to 2 million spectators during the Tour de France, creating an electrifying atmosphere. While we’ll experience a quieter day on Alpe d’Huez without the Tour de France buzz, the mountain still beckons millions of riders each month.

Savour the ascent up the famous Alpe d’Huez, revelling in its challenge and triumph. Following the ride, we’ll return to Le Bourg d’Oisans, embracing the charm of this wonderful French village, before concluding the day’s adventures and heading back to our hotel for a relaxing evening.

The morning’s highlight includes conquering the renowned Col du Galibier, a legendary climb featured in numerous Tour de France events. Despite its altitude, accessing this iconic ascent from our valley-based location will offer a manageable challenge.

Post our invigorating ride, we’ll relax at our hotel, catching the electrifying climax of the TDF stage on television. To conclude this day of exploration in the French Alps, we gather for a delightful dinner at the hotel, where we share anecdotes and experiences from our Alpine escapades

Tonight we will enjoy a final farewell dinner together.

Today marks the conclusion of our remarkable journey together. We extend a heartfelt farewell, wishing you safe travels for the adventures that lie ahead. Our morning commences with our departure from the hotel, setting off on a relaxed journey aboard our luxury coach. We’ll ensure a smooth transition to Lyon Saint Exupery Airport, facilitating an effortless departure for your onward flights.

As you venture toward your next destination, carry with you the cherished memories, enriching experiences, and the bonds of camaraderie fostered during our extraordinary Tour de France adventure. Bon voyage!