Self-Guided Cycling Trips to the Southern Alps

Introduction

This guide includes all the information you need for an incredible cycling vacation in the Bourg d’Oisans region of the Southern Alps. From breathtaking scenery to wonderful food, this area is perfect for your first – or tenth – cycling trip to France!

Start by reading all of my free guides at www.FranceCyclingTours.com for general information on things like travel, accommodations, etc. Intended to supplement the free guides, this guide contains very specific information about the Southern Alps, including six detailed cycling routes.

I also recommend that you buy the Michelin Map for this region, “333 Local, Isere, Savoie” for a detailed view of the area roads including the routes discussed in this guide. The Local Michelin Map goes so far as to include 1‐3 chevrons indicating steep sections of the road: one chevron equals 5‐9%, 2 chevrons equals 9-13% and 3 chevrons equals 13+%. You can find Michelin maps online at www.languagequest.com or www.amazon.com, among other places. Bon voyage!
 

Table of Contents
The Area ....................................................................................................................................	2
When to Go ...............................................................................................................................	2
Getting There ............................................................................................................................	3
Accommodations .......................................................................................................................	3
Food and Drink ..........................................................................................................................	4
Outdoor Markets .......................................................................................................................	4
Restaurants ...............................................................................................................................	5
Bike Shops ................................................................................................................................	6
Viewing the Tour de France ......................................................................................................	6
Routes .......................................................................................................................................	8
Alpe d’Huez ...............................................................................................................................	8
Col de Sarenne Loop ................................................................................................................	9
La Berarde ................................................................................................................................	9
Villard Notre Dame / Villard Reymond Loop ...........................................................................	11
La Marmotte Route Loop ..........................................................................................................	12
Col du Glandon Loop ................................................................................................................	14