The biggest stars in cycling without the crowds in the French Alps

Watch the world’s very best professional bike racers in a beautiful part of France at the Critérium du Dauphiné, whilst you also experience for yourself premium quality fully guided bike rides with the local French Alps bike race tour specialists. For all avid fans and discerning cyclists who may have seen the Tour de France in July, enjoy the biggest stars in cycling without the crowds, classic cycling and the majestic beauty of the French Alps at their best!

The Criterium bike race is a highlight of the season for the Practice Bicycle team, who have a special passion for cycling and International racing ready to share with you.

The Critérium du Dauphiné is the final lead up race to the Tour de France each year, which means you can expect a spectacle of racing delights with the worlds very best climbers and general classification professionals testing their physical limits. This year the race route is ‘off the beaten track’ with new roads and new climbs a greater challenge for all the expected TDF riders.
This spectacular action packed viewing added to the best cycling of your life gives our guests an amazing cycling holiday experience brought to you with the knowledge and expertise of the professionals based in Annecy, France.

2020 Critérium du Dauphiné

This premium bike tour brings you up close and personal with live viewing of the final Alpine stages of the 72nd edition of the Critérium du Dauphiné bike race at our “unique viewing spots” only achievable from the experienced local Annecy bike tour team. Enjoy the action of Geraint Thomas, Adam Yates, Romain Bardet, Warren Barguil and Dan Martin all targeting the Dauphine bike race.  Each day will also include the very best bike rides in the world, fully guided and tailored amongst breathtaking scenery in the French Alps and the Rhone Alps Region of France. This proven Practice Bicycle formula of the ideal balance between quality rides, race viewing and relaxing is enjoyed by all our discerning bike riders and non-cycling guests.

Can’t get enough of cycling in the French Alps?

Classic ToursWe also offer our Signature Lake Annecy Bike Trips before and after the Critérium du Dauphiné. Why not extend your holiday and turn it into the cycling trip of a lifetime?

View Lake Annecy Trip
Tour Type question mark-01

Bike Race Tour

Activity Level question mark-01

Flexible – from 40 km/day to 100 km/day
We offer a choice of 2-3 ride distances each day as per our itineraries i.e 50km.75km or 100km (Unique in the Industry for a Bike Race Tour)

Available Packages question mark-01

Premium: $3202 per person
Includes 3* Hotel Accommodation and 4 Dauphine stages

Weekend: $1439 per person
Includes 3* Hotel Accommodation and 2 Dauphine stages

Location

Annecy, France

Dates

3 – 8 June 2020

Duration

6 Days / 5 Nights

Group Size

4 to 8 people

Optional Extras question mark 01

Single room – $720
Bike hire – $500
Non-cycling partner – $2905

Non-cycling partner?

That’s ok, we cater to non-cyclists too!

For avid fans of international cycle races who don’t wish to ride, or for non-cyclists who want to accompany their bike riding husband/wife/partner at the extraordinary French Alps experience in June this year. In fact, enjoy all the same benefits as the Critérium du Dauphiné Bike Race Tour guests! Only your choice is to join in the race action and experience all the uniqueness of the marvellous French Alps in June at a more leisurely pace from the comfort of the support vehicle all with your local team in Annecy!

A brilliant week on our 2019 Criterium du Dauphine Bike Tour. Thank you so much for making our first tour experience an outstanding experience. A few things that come to mind to reflect on our experience:

Annecy and the surrounding region was everything we hoped it would be for a cycling experience and a breath of fresh air for a road cyclist. The cycling routes, countryside and roadways where outstanding but what really stands out is the cycling ethos in Annecy. Cyclists everywhere, quiet country roads with beautiful road surfaces and courteous car traffic. A week of feeling part of the local cycling community and a welcoming place to be a road cyclist!

Our hosts Paul and Bridget were delightful. We might all be there for the cycling but really it is the feeling of camaraderie that you take home with you. Laughing, cycling and stories are all wrapped together and for those of us with busy lives and responsibilities it is a blessing to just be on the bike and feel the joy.

Practice Bicycle really took care of navigating the language, the routes, transport, schedules and details so we could relax and really enjoy the ride. It is no easy feat to blend race viewing and five great rides during the Dauphine. Paul and Bridget are pros and work together extremely well to put it all together.

We were up for a challenge and Practice Bicycle delivered. A couple of warm up days to adjust to the roads and terrain and then three challenging days of climbing. Paul is a master at tailoring pace to ability and ensured our biggest goals were met as we summited major Col’s and built lasting memories. With a lifetime of cycling and racing knowledge Paul and Bridget not only created a great cycling experience, but we learned more about cycling in five days than our prior years combined.

If cycling brings you balance, if cycling brings you life, than Practice Bicycle gives you an immersion into the cycling experience that can reconnect you with your passion and fuel it for years to come.

Testimonial by D. Torgerson – USA
D. Torgerson – USA

Dates

Premium
2020
Weekend
2020

Itinerary

New roads and new climbs for this years Dauphine. Don’t miss out in 2020 and register above.

Day 1

Wednesday June 12th - Arrival Day in Annecy at Criterium du Dauphine 2019
*Ride Option:
Distance 40km/25mi Ascent 200m/650ft route Lac Annecy
INCLUSIONS: Airport Transfer, Welcome Drinks & Dinner in one of Annecy’s Finest Restaurants
Today is arrival day with your private transfer from Geneva International Airport (Switzerland) to your hotel in the wonderful town of Annecy nestled at the base of the French Alps and on the shores of spectacular Lake Annecy.
Once checked-in, relax and take the time to enjoy one of the most stunning towns in the world, explore the medieval streets and the canals of the ‘Venice of the Alps’. Un-wind from your travels, take a leisurely drink and become apart of France for just a few days. Should time permit enjoy a welcome ride around spectacular Lake Annecy the ideal preparation for the following 4 fantastic action packed stages at the Criterium du Dauphine 2019.
This evening we invite you to join us for a Welcome Aperitif and Gastronomique Dinner at one of Annecy’s finest Restaurants to experience local Haute Savoie cuisine!

Day 2

Thursday June 13th - View the Criterium du Dauphine Stage 5 Boën-sur-Lignon > Voiron (Finish)
*Ride Option:
Distance 40km/25mi Ascent 400m/1300ft route Lac d’Aigubelette
Distance 95km/60mi Ascent 1150m/38000ft route Chambery
INCLUSIONS: Breakfast, Voiron Restaurant Lunch
NON CYCLING GUEST: Discover the town of Voiron
Today is our first live action of the Criterium Dauphine 2019 and we will be witness to a unique event, with new routes and climbs on offer in a format that will surprise the best professionals in the world on the roads of the Rhone-Alps this June. We will pick-up the action as the fast men of the peloton arrive on the streets of Voiron and their final opportunity for a stage victory prior to the final 3 difficult stages in the mountains.
Enjoy our ride of lakes as we leave Lac Annecy to Lac du Bourget and through the Chartreuse Park to all the finish line action in Voiron. These superb roads are here for you to experience with fresh legs as much or as little as you wish with your Professional Team in the French Alps.
With every cycling effort there has to be an equal reward and what could be better than a hearty restaurant lunch to enjoy together before the race peloton arrives at maximum speed.
Voiron is one of the three gateway towns of the Regional Natural Park of Chartreuse and the famous Liquor of the same name. Since the 18th century, the Carthusian monks have been distilling Chartreuse, a totally natural liqueur made from 130 plants using a closely-guarded secret recipe. A visit to the world’s largest cellar at the Caves de la Chartreuse is highly recommended.

Day 3

Friday June 14th - View the Criterium du Dauphine Stage 6 Saint-Vulbas Plaine de l'Ain > Saint-Michel-de-Maurienne (Alps)
*Ride Option:
Distance 35km/22mi Ascent 745m/2400ft route Chatlard
Distance 60km/37mi Ascent 1100m/3600ft route Col du Frene (969m)
Distance 115km/70mi Ascent 1700m/5600ft route Massif des Bauges
INCLUSIONS: Breakfast, Bauges Traditional Restaurant Lunch
NON CYCLING GUEST: Share the spectacular tour day sights in the Massif des Bauges
‘Off the beaten track’ is the theme that the race organisation has given to this years Dauphine route, today the race hots up with the first of 3 Alpine stages to decide the winner of the Criterium Dauphine 2019. These roads are not particularly high by altitude; add the speed of the very best professional climbers in the world and the big challenge begins!
These fantastic cycling roads are amongst some of Practice Bicycles favourites and we enjoy them as much today as we did in the very beginning back in 1997. We can’t wait to share them with you and they become your favourite cycling roads also. Take advantage of your team’s planning and all their local knowledge to give you the best of both worlds with your own superb ride for a fabulous day of cycling and all the action as the Dauphine peloton in full flight on one of their 8 Cols of the day.
It’s time to relax and refuel with your hidden gem restaurant lunch and enjoy the rest of this special day and a memorable moment of cycling at this year’s Criterium du Dauphine!
Return to Annecy by vehicle or take advantage of the euphoria of ‘Cycling Paradise’ with breathtaking views cycling all the way back to Annecy!

Day 4

Saturday June 15th - View the Criterium du Dauphine Stage 7 Saint-Genix-les-Villages > Les Sept Laux-Pipay (Alps Finish)
*Ride Option:
Distance 45km/28mi Ascent 200m/660ft route Isere
Distance 65km/40mi Ascent 1500m/4900ft route Montee De Pipay HC (1561m)
Distance 125km/78mi Ascent 1800m/5900ft route Albertville
INCLUSIONS: Breakfast, Alpine Restaurant Lunch
NON CYCLING GUEST: Share all the Tour day & spectacular action in the Massif de Belledonne Alps
The Dauphine professional peloton will be fired up for this historic week-end of mountain stages of 133km and 113.5km. With this epic stage including 4150m of climbing in a relatively short distance of 133km its uphill all the way for the very best cyclists in the world, including 4 category Cols and the final test of the legs to the summit finish at Les Sept Laux-Pipay (HC)
The Tour de France last visited this ski resort in the Massif de Belledonne back in 1980 this is exciting racing terrain that will make for a spectacular final week-end at the Dauphine in 2019.
Heading into the Alps with your own magnificent rides and supported all the way by the local professional guides at Practicebicycle does not have to be so daunting with your own choice of ride options, tailored to your requirements as you pedal on the route of these famous cycling roads.
With our own work done for the day and at your ‘Unique Live Viewing Spot’ in the Alps your team has thought of everything for you, get your breath back and enjoy your Alpine restaurant lunch and all the action of the finish line of stage 7 at the Criterium Dauphine 2019.

Day 5

Sunday June 16th - View the Criterium du Dauphine Stage 8 Cluses > Champéry (Start)
*Ride Option:
Distance 50km/31mi Ascent 480m/1600ft route Cluses
Distance 65km/40mi Ascent 800m/2600ft route Grand Alps
Distance 70km/44mi Ascent 1300m/4300ft route Col de la Colombiere (1618m)
Distance 110km/68mi Ascent 1800m/5900ft route Cluses + Colombiere (1618m)
INCLUSIONS: Breakfast, Dauphine French Alps Lunch
NON CYCLING GUEST: Share all the Tour day & magnificent French Alps
Today is our last superb ride opportunity together during your Dauphine bike tour and after yesterday’s Alpine stage, we have one final adventure as we head deep into the Grand Alps…it has to be experienced to be believed, if you still have your uphill pedalling legs!
We’ve seen all the sights of this years Criterium Dauphine from the superfast sprinters to the amazing climbers in the mountains, this morning enjoy the opportunity of a close up look at the weary warriors of the road at the final stage start. After 1200km of racing on new and testing roads the peloton has one final day of suffering, take a look at the teams as they prepare for their last effort to decide who will win the prestigious leaders jerseys at the 2019 Criterium Dauphine.
Flexibility with our premium small group allows for the very best ride options on our local roads of the Aravis Mountain range; with options for all abilities pick your perfect ride to end an incredible cycling holiday in the magnificent French Alps. Celebrate the Dauphine bike race tour and all your amazing ride accomplishments one last time over a restaurant lunch with Practice Bicycle Tours.

Day 6

Monday 17th June – Departure Day from Annecy French Alps
DEPARTURE TIME: 12:00pm
INCLUSIONS: Breakfast, Geneva International Airport Transfer
Today is the departure day from your Criterium Dauphine adventure. Your team will say good bye this morning and transfer you to Geneva International Airport (Switzerland) for your midday departure. Practice Bicycle Tours wish you a “Bon Voyage”, safe cycling until we Practicebicycle together again.

*As with all the PRACTICEBICYCLE planned rides you always have the option of taking it easy and enjoying the comfort of the support vehicle and all the spectacle of the day at a more leisurely pace.

Am I fit enough for this trip?

Whether you have years of cycling experience or are just new to the bike the Criterium du Dauphine bike race tour is for anyone who is a fan of the best bike racing in the world!

With our local knowledge from over 20 years riding this amazing cycling destination, expect only the very best rides.  Each cycling route during your Dauphine Bike Tour will be tailored specifically to your bike riding ability and experience, including the opportunity of riding on parts of the stage route.

So you can have a challenging ride or a comfortable ride – the choice is yours with the professionals!

Will I have enough to do off the bike?

Our Bike Race Tours are packed full of race action and the very best cycling of your life.
Should you still have energy to spare then Annecy is one of the best places in the world to explore! the stunning location of Lake Annecy is the absolute perfect base for your Criterium du Dauphine cycling holiday.

You may choose to wander the enchanting streets, do some shopping or just sit by the lake and admire the spectacular views and watch French life pass you by. The team can assist you in choosing from the many superb restaurants, bars and salon du teas in the home of Practice Bicycle, Annecy. Spend your evening enjoying a lovely meal just like a local, ready for your next day full of new sights, adventures and opportunities in the French Alps. Bon soiree!

Where will I be staying?

Practice Bicycle choose proven 3* quality, air-conditioned hotel accommodation located in the heart of undoubtedly the most beautiful town in France, Annecy. The Perfect location to enjoy the best of the Criterium du Dauphine bike race in 2020.

Is this trip challenging enough for me?

We enjoy a challenge as much as we love cycling.
The team at Practice Bicycle has a history in professional bike racing and coaching, with your host Bridget Evans racing professionally on the roads of France (1998 -2008)  so if it’s a challenge you are looking for, we can definitely find just the right rides for you.  After all, the area around Lake Annecy is home to over 20 classic Tour de France cols!

If you are looking for a specific challenge or to improve your cycling, then consider one of our winter and summer training camps.

Whats included in the Weekend Package?

If your short on time escape for the weekend with our Friday & Saturday Night Package (5 – 7 June).

The Criterium Dauphine Weekend includes; Airport Pick-up & Drop-off,  2 Nights Hotel accommodation + Breakfast, 2 Stages of the Criterium Dauphine & Restaurant Lunches (6th & 7th June).

Alternatively enjoy a Criterium Dauphine Day Tour
Let the professionals take care of all the details. Fully escorted and supported to the best live viewing spots to catch the Dauphine stage race action including a superb restaurant lunch each day.

Ride some of the most mythical cycling routes around Lake Annecy and the French Alps all at the Criterium Dauphine!

What rides will I do?

On each of our tours we tailor the daily rides to the riders experience offering a choice of distance each day, including riding parts of the Criterium du Dauphine race route. Take a look at the exciting itinerary above!

In addition Practice Bicycle has developed 100+ routes from Annecy for riders of all levels, only possible with over 20 years cycling in the Rhone-Alps of France. To get an idea of what sort of rides you will be doing in ‘Cycling Paradise’, have a look at a sample of our rides in Annecy.

What activities, tours will the Non Cycling Partner do whilst I am on my bike?

As our Criterium Dauphine Non Cycling guest and bike race fan you experience all the spectacle, excitement and action up close and personal of the very best bike racing in the world!
In addition our local support team will share with you culture and villages on route whilst catching up with the cycling group at our ‘Unique live viewing spots’ and handpicked restaurant lunch together.
An amazing June vacation at the Criterium Dauphine in the Rhone Alps of France.

Why do you choose to watch 4 stages at the Criterium du Dauphine bike race tour?

Our specialty bike race tours are focused on showing you the very best race action with your own great riding experience, including viewing the Criterium du Dauphine professional race on a selection of intriguing and spectacular stages.
Maximising your cycling vacation time and enjoyment with viewing the race action live, contrasting with your own variety of personally tailored guided rides and the opportunity of enough time to relax and experience your idyllic Lake Annecy in the French Alps location.

Your Criterium du Dauphne 2020 bike tour package includes:

  • 5 nights 3* hotel accommodation in Annecy
  • 5 French continental buffet breakfasts
  • 5 guided rides in the French Alps designed and tailored to the individual
  • 4 unique ‘live viewing spots’ of the decisive Alpine stages of the Criterium Dauphine that only a local would know!
  • Welcome Aperitif followed by a superb gourmet experience of a traditional French dinner upon arrival
  • 4 French Restaurant Lunches on the stages of the Criterium du Dauphine
  • The ultimate support of the professional team living in Annecy, French Alps
  • Ride support vehicle & ‘on the go’ mechanical assistance
  • Sports drinks & bike food for each day’s riding
  • Arrival & Departure Tour Day Transfer: Geneva International Airport Switzerland to Hotel Annecy France (arrival 2:00pm & departure 12:00pm)
  • A Gift Pack including Practice Bicycle Cycling Jersey

Criterium du Dauphine 2020 Tour Highlights:

  • Magnificent Lake Annecy the most enchanting town in France, this ‘baby Paris’ perfect location the ‘Venice of the Alps’
  • Biggest stars of world cycling live from the roadside at the Criterium du Dauphine bike race
  • Breathtaking ambiance of the high pastures of the Massif des Aravis Mountain Range, the tranquil roads of Massif des Bauges park & peaks of Massif de Belledonne Alps.
  • Out of this world cycling deserves the very best variety of flavours of gourmet French restaurants in the Rhone-Alps.
  • Ride amazing Valleys, Lakes & Cols all on offer, Col du Frene (969m), Montee De Pipay (1561m), Col de la Colombiere (1618m).
  • Great cafe stops during the tour at unique French Alps towns and villages; Aix-les-Bains, Albertville, Alby-sur-Cheran & Thones.
  • 1st class service, small group camaraderie a unique experience & lots of fun
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