French Alps Bike Tours
French Alps Bike Tours Spectacular Alps Cycling
French Alps Cycling Challenge Col de Tamie, Col du Marais, Col des Fleuries, Côte de Copponex , Mont Prince, Col de Leschaux
Unpack Once & Ride Everyday with a choice of spectacular French Alps bike tours. Offering the very best selection of cycling routes in the Alps with a combination of breathtaking, tailored, challenging rides. Challenging weeks of French Alps cycling designed and proven with over 20 years of unique local knowledge of riding the roads of the French Alps. For the avid cyclist looking for a true test we also offer our 17 EPIC ALPS COLS TOUR
Tailored French Alps Cycling Tours
Based in the heart of ‘Cycling Paradise’ you are among an endless variety of spectacular roads, terrain and mountains. From the Col du Marais (843m, 10km @ Average 4%,) to the Col des Fleuries (932m, 5.6km @ average 5%) and you’ll get to experience the best of them with a selection of the best moderate climbing rides of your life during your French Alps cycling tour week.
Challenging Bike Rides
Fully guided all the way with the professionals in this mecca of cycling in the French Alps. Your perfect challenging bike tour is about tailoring the ideal rides each day. With our world class cycling skills and incredible local knowledge of the roads of the French Alps, expect only the best ride routes from this amazing French Alps bike tour.
This French Alps cycling vacation is tailored to your cycling experience, ability and goals. Whether your preparing for an event, improving your climbing technique or enjoy the challenge of riding on historic cycling routes of the Tour de France. It’s your ultimate cycling escape with the PB professionals in the French Alps.
Climb, Climb, Climb 17 Cols Cycling Vacation!
Test your legs with 17 ALPINE COLS of the Tour de France, the Ultimate box ticker, with several classic cols each day!
Tour Type 
Challenging Bike Tour
Cycling Guided
PB Cycling Guides
Small Group
2 – 8 Guests
Cycling Level
Challenging 70km / 44mi per day
Packages
Quality Tour:
4*Plus Hotel Accommodation AUD $4171 pp
4* Hotel Accommodation AUD $3889 pp
3* Hotel Accommodation AUD $3545 pp
2* Hotel Accommodation AUD $3145 pp
Rides Only:
Without Accommodation AUD $2408 pp
Custom Tour
Contact Us:
Request a private, customised version of this tour for yourself or cycling group.
Centre Based Cycling
Annecy, France
Season
April – October
Duration
7 Nights / 8 Days
Distance
420km / 260mi
Elevation
4,770m / 15,600ft
Optional Extras
Single Room – AUD $737
Bike Hire – AUD $600
Annecy One Hotel Cycling
The Perfect Cycling Base for your French Alps Cycling Tours
Since our very first visit to Annecy in 1998 Practice Bicycle Tours have been cycling, living and experiencing all that this remarkable cycling area of the world has to offer. Sharing this wealth of personal cycling experience and local knowledge with you today with your French Alps Bike Tours.
Our challenging bike tours offer an amazing French Alps experience. With a selection of moderate climbing bike routes combined with the stunning French Alps destination of Annecy. Spectacular days spent cycling in the French Alps with a tailored variety of challenging rides, and the convenience of returning to your own perfect one hotel in the town of Annecy. This is your French Alps bike tour with a difference.
We met Paul & Bridget in Australia. We loved cycling with them and arranged our custom tour to cycle with them in beautiful Annecy, 5 days of simple joy & experiencing the region, Sad to leave!
Great Hosts, 5 Brilliant rides, Highly Recommended
Great Hosts, 5 Brilliant rides, Highly Recommended
Isolde & Neil – Australia
Dates
Experience the French Alps Cycling Tours click the “Book Now” button next to the tour date.
2023
2024
Looking for a custom French Alps Bike Tour experience?
If you or your group want a tailored cycling week, don’t hesitate to contact us about arranging a Custom French Alps Bike Tour!
Challenging French Alps Bike Tours
Total Distance 420km/260mi, Total Elevation 4770m/15600ft, Total Number of Cols 7
Challenging French Alps bike rides 65-75km /40-47mi suitable for regular riders with moderate climbs of 900m/3000ft altitude.
French Alps Bike Tour
Arrival Day in Annecy / Welcome Dinner
Arrival Time: 3:00pm
Welcome to Annecy and your French Alps Bike Tour.
Today is your arrival day for your Challenging French Alps bike routes around the wonderful town of Annecy nestled at the base of the French Alps and on the shores of spectacular Lake Annecy.
Your package includes a transfer from Geneva International Airport (Switzerland) to your hotel in 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 a part of France for just a few days.
This evening we get together for welcome dinner a feast of French Flavours, the perfect preparation for your fantastic cycling days ahead
Welcome to Annecy and your French Alps Bike Tour.
Today is your arrival day for your Challenging French Alps bike routes around the wonderful town of Annecy nestled at the base of the French Alps and on the shores of spectacular Lake Annecy.
Your package includes a transfer from Geneva International Airport (Switzerland) to your hotel in 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 a part of France for just a few days.
This evening we get together for welcome dinner a feast of French Flavours, the perfect preparation for your fantastic cycling days ahead
French Alps Bike Tour
Col de Tamie 907m
Challenging Ride Route:
Distance 75km/47mi
Ascent 510m/1700ft
Start your Challenging French Alps Bike Tour along the shore of the spectacular turquoise waters of Lake Annecy, one of the most exhilarating pedaling experiences in the world.
Your first ride route of the tour is the Col de Tamie (907m, 10km @ Average 3.9%) this delightful gentle climb is for everyone and not considered particularly high from a French Alps perspective. The lower slopes wind up past the Château de Faverges before the route flattens into this glacial valley making it the perfect introduction to your Annecy cycling holiday.
The gradual terrain gives you plenty of time to enjoy the forest views and the sound of the river on its way to the Grotte et Cascade de Seythenex. Once at the summit get your breath back and enjoy the isolation of your first day in the French Alps and the impressive Abbaye Notre-Dame de Tamié.
Take in the breathtaking views as we begin to descend back towards your perfect cycling base for the week, returning to Annecy by the excellent bike path.
Distance 75km/47mi
Ascent 510m/1700ft
Start your Challenging French Alps Bike Tour along the shore of the spectacular turquoise waters of Lake Annecy, one of the most exhilarating pedaling experiences in the world.
Your first ride route of the tour is the Col de Tamie (907m, 10km @ Average 3.9%) this delightful gentle climb is for everyone and not considered particularly high from a French Alps perspective. The lower slopes wind up past the Château de Faverges before the route flattens into this glacial valley making it the perfect introduction to your Annecy cycling holiday.
The gradual terrain gives you plenty of time to enjoy the forest views and the sound of the river on its way to the Grotte et Cascade de Seythenex. Once at the summit get your breath back and enjoy the isolation of your first day in the French Alps and the impressive Abbaye Notre-Dame de Tamié.
Take in the breathtaking views as we begin to descend back towards your perfect cycling base for the week, returning to Annecy by the excellent bike path.
French Alps Bike Tour
Col des Fleuries 932m
Challenging Ride Route:
Distance 65km/40mi
Ascent 900m/3000ft
We are always spoilt for choice when it comes to picking and tailoring your challenging French Alps amazing ride routes with so many Cols around Annecy some famous others not so well known. It’s also more interesting to see these amazing sights, delights and challenges in every direction, today we are heading North and following the edge of the French Alps and the sheer rock face of the Tete du Parmelan.
These impressive panoramas of the mountains are part of your daily ride routine with Practice Bicycle Tours, today is no exception as we climb through the forest of the Col de Frettallaz (670m) and admire the silhouettes of these panoramic views. These secret country roads have everything from Chateaux’s to Plateau’s perfect to escape and appreciate all the pleasures from great riding together in the French Alps.
This historic area was a strong hold of the French Resistance during World War 2 and the Plateau Glieres has an impressive National Monument to the Resistance.
The climb of the Col des Fleuries (932m, 5.6km @ average 5%) is your challenge today enjoy the peace and tranquility of this region and the views of Switzerland in the distance.
Distance 65km/40mi
Ascent 900m/3000ft
We are always spoilt for choice when it comes to picking and tailoring your challenging French Alps amazing ride routes with so many Cols around Annecy some famous others not so well known. It’s also more interesting to see these amazing sights, delights and challenges in every direction, today we are heading North and following the edge of the French Alps and the sheer rock face of the Tete du Parmelan.
These impressive panoramas of the mountains are part of your daily ride routine with Practice Bicycle Tours, today is no exception as we climb through the forest of the Col de Frettallaz (670m) and admire the silhouettes of these panoramic views. These secret country roads have everything from Chateaux’s to Plateau’s perfect to escape and appreciate all the pleasures from great riding together in the French Alps.
This historic area was a strong hold of the French Resistance during World War 2 and the Plateau Glieres has an impressive National Monument to the Resistance.
The climb of the Col des Fleuries (932m, 5.6km @ average 5%) is your challenge today enjoy the peace and tranquility of this region and the views of Switzerland in the distance.
French Alps Bike Tour
Mont Prince 650m
Challenging Ride Route:
Distance 75km/47mi
Ascent 850m/2800ft
After yesterday’s ride to the North, today we show you the contrast of this ‘Cycling Paradise’ as we explore some of the undulating roads to the West of Annecy, away from the Grand Alps and to one of France’s main rivers the Rhone.
Gently winding away from town we are on the very best cycling roads in the world and what feels like slightly downhill all the way as we are heading into the next valley dotted with local vineyards and amazing views. It’s only the vertical over hanging rocks of the valley road that separates you from the Rhone River and with the natural site of the Val du Fier we’re in a totally different landscape and area of France the department of L’Ain.
The Rhone is an impressive river system with changes in currents and colors a reflection of the hydro-electric power systems nearby. More impressive are the green shrouded mountain summits either side, referred to as the pre-Alps and often on the Tour de France route each year, your challenging French Alps bike route is one of these the Cote du Mont-des-Prince (696m, 6km @ average 6.2%)
With today’s challenge complete enjoy quite traffic free roads returning to Lake Annecy with panoramic views all the way.
Distance 75km/47mi
Ascent 850m/2800ft
After yesterday’s ride to the North, today we show you the contrast of this ‘Cycling Paradise’ as we explore some of the undulating roads to the West of Annecy, away from the Grand Alps and to one of France’s main rivers the Rhone.
Gently winding away from town we are on the very best cycling roads in the world and what feels like slightly downhill all the way as we are heading into the next valley dotted with local vineyards and amazing views. It’s only the vertical over hanging rocks of the valley road that separates you from the Rhone River and with the natural site of the Val du Fier we’re in a totally different landscape and area of France the department of L’Ain.
The Rhone is an impressive river system with changes in currents and colors a reflection of the hydro-electric power systems nearby. More impressive are the green shrouded mountain summits either side, referred to as the pre-Alps and often on the Tour de France route each year, your challenging French Alps bike route is one of these the Cote du Mont-des-Prince (696m, 6km @ average 6.2%)
With today’s challenge complete enjoy quite traffic free roads returning to Lake Annecy with panoramic views all the way.
French Alps Bike Tour
Col du Marais 843m
Challenging Ride Route:
Distance 65km/40mi
Ascent 540m/1800ft
Today we have chosen one of the Practice Bicycle teams favorite climbs the Col du Marais, this challenge with its constant grade and relatively short duration makes it a French Alps pleasure for all!
This ride route like many of these amazing rides can be ridden from a variety of directions, we will head South along the valley following the edge of Lake Annecy, ready to test your legs at your pace with the slopes of the Col du Marais (843m, 10km @ Average 4%,), the air is fresh and the views are magnificent and you can experience for yourself why the French Alps are world famous!
Your little taste of the grandeur of the Alps continues descending through tranquil villages, including the beautiful gateway town to the French Alps and center of the famous local “Reblochon” cheese production industry.
With all this challenging riding there is always a reward and today is no different with a favorite cafe and patisserie stop. Enjoy the rest of the ride as it’s nearly all downhill back to your hotel not forgetting unforgettable views all the way.
Distance 65km/40mi
Ascent 540m/1800ft
Today we have chosen one of the Practice Bicycle teams favorite climbs the Col du Marais, this challenge with its constant grade and relatively short duration makes it a French Alps pleasure for all!
This ride route like many of these amazing rides can be ridden from a variety of directions, we will head South along the valley following the edge of Lake Annecy, ready to test your legs at your pace with the slopes of the Col du Marais (843m, 10km @ Average 4%,), the air is fresh and the views are magnificent and you can experience for yourself why the French Alps are world famous!
Your little taste of the grandeur of the Alps continues descending through tranquil villages, including the beautiful gateway town to the French Alps and center of the famous local “Reblochon” cheese production industry.
With all this challenging riding there is always a reward and today is no different with a favorite cafe and patisserie stop. Enjoy the rest of the ride as it’s nearly all downhill back to your hotel not forgetting unforgettable views all the way.
French Alps Bike Tour
Côte de Copponex 736m
Challenging Ride Route:
Distance 70km/43mi
Ascent 815m/2700ft
Show casing this cycling mecca with the opportunity for rides in every direction is another reason why you are in ‘French Alps Cycling Paradise’ and what is cycling without unbelievable memories, it’s making memories that keep the pedals turning.
We smile together every time we enjoy riding the Cote de Copponex (736m), it was on this climb we watched the world-class sprinter Robbie McEwen, struggling like all good cyclists in the 1997 Tour de France and it was also included in the route of the 2021 Tour de France that passed through the Haute-Savoie department.
These roads North of Annecy and in the direction of Geneva (Switzerland), also separate Lake Annecy from its neighbor Lake Leman. This undulating terrain is full of tranquil country lanes dotted with farms and villages, testing roads for even the best of legs, with this challenging ride route.
Distance 70km/43mi
Ascent 815m/2700ft
Show casing this cycling mecca with the opportunity for rides in every direction is another reason why you are in ‘French Alps Cycling Paradise’ and what is cycling without unbelievable memories, it’s making memories that keep the pedals turning.
We smile together every time we enjoy riding the Cote de Copponex (736m), it was on this climb we watched the world-class sprinter Robbie McEwen, struggling like all good cyclists in the 1997 Tour de France and it was also included in the route of the 2021 Tour de France that passed through the Haute-Savoie department.
These roads North of Annecy and in the direction of Geneva (Switzerland), also separate Lake Annecy from its neighbor Lake Leman. This undulating terrain is full of tranquil country lanes dotted with farms and villages, testing roads for even the best of legs, with this challenging ride route.
French Alps Bike Tour
Col de Leschaux 900m
Challenging Ride Route:
Distance 65km/40mi
Ascent 850m/2800ft
Many of your challenging bike rides from Annecy include Cols that have been included in the famous Tour de France bike race, this ride route is packed full of them, honestly we’re not leaving the best ride route until last although you may think so!
Enjoy these scenic slopes and the incredible vista offered of the Lake as the roads wind upwards, it’s one of the local Annecy cyclists’ regular weekend challenges the Col de Leschaux (900m, 11.9km @ average 3.7%). This Col can be climbed from several other directions and just another reason why we call the home of Practice Bicycle Tours, ‘Cycling Paradise’.
It is a fantastic experience on these Challenging French Alps ride routes, enjoyable, challenging and a great sense of achievement riding these famous Cols, enjoy climbing together one last time to cap off a great week on your French Alps holiday.
Distance 65km/40mi
Ascent 850m/2800ft
Many of your challenging bike rides from Annecy include Cols that have been included in the famous Tour de France bike race, this ride route is packed full of them, honestly we’re not leaving the best ride route until last although you may think so!
Enjoy these scenic slopes and the incredible vista offered of the Lake as the roads wind upwards, it’s one of the local Annecy cyclists’ regular weekend challenges the Col de Leschaux (900m, 11.9km @ average 3.7%). This Col can be climbed from several other directions and just another reason why we call the home of Practice Bicycle Tours, ‘Cycling Paradise’.
It is a fantastic experience on these Challenging French Alps ride routes, enjoyable, challenging and a great sense of achievement riding these famous Cols, enjoy climbing together one last time to cap off a great week on your French Alps holiday.
French Alps Bike Tour
Departure Day from Annecy
Departure Time: Midday
Departure day from Annecy and your French Alps Bike Tour adventures, PB transfer you to Geneva International Airport (Switzerland) wish you ‘Bon Voyage’, safe cycling until we Practice Bicycle together again.
Challenging French Alps Bike Routes Itinerary:
Distance 420km/260mi, Elevation 4770m/15600ft, Number of Cols 7
Departure day from Annecy and your French Alps Bike Tour adventures, PB transfer you to Geneva International Airport (Switzerland) wish you ‘Bon Voyage’, safe cycling until we Practice Bicycle together again.
Challenging French Alps Bike Routes Itinerary:
Distance 420km/260mi, Elevation 4770m/15600ft, Number of Cols 7
*The itinerary comprises a selection of challenging ride routes, our extensive local knowledge of the roads of the French Alps allows for flexibility or route changes as required!
Tour Arrival & Departure Meet Point: Geneva International Airport (Switzerland).
The French Alps Bike Tours are based on the magnificent cycling roads surrounding the town of Annecy offering the ultimate French Alps cycling each day. With the tour package including airport pick-up and drop-off to Annecy 3.00pm tour arrival & midday tour departure days.
We suggest International guests arrive 1 night prior to the tour to recover from your travels and adapt to the local time zone, our recommendation the Holiday Inn Express Geneva Airport which includes an Airport Shuttle.
Should you already be travelling in Europe you can join us in the town of Annecy, France by the following methods:
Air Travel: The two closest airports to Annecy are, Geneva Airport (Switzerland) a 45min transfer and Lyon Airport (France) 1.15hrs transfer. Both these airports are serviced by many International carriers and low cost European airlines.
Bus Travel: Public Bus Transport operates between both Geneva and Lyon airports and Annecy alternatively convenient Taxi and Private Transfer Services are available.
Train Travel: the Rail Europe TGV Network brings you direct to Annecy from many of the capital cities of Europe, including Paris.
Car Travel: Many worldwide Car Rental companies are also available and the A41 French Autoroute network will bring you directly to Annecy.
Practice Bicycle offer a choice of 4*Plus, 4*, 3* or 2* superior, quality air-conditioned hotel accommodation located in undoubtedly the most beautiful town in France, Annecy. Perfect for all your recovery and relaxation needs during your French Alps Bike Tour.
Ideal for the ‘solo traveller’ our choice 2* Hotel, is the perfect solution for an economical cycling vacation in the French Alps.
With a choice of fantastic, modern stays on offer, choose your style of hotel for you to unwind, relax, feel comfortable whilst you enjoy the best of charming Annecy.
4*Plus Best Western Carlton Hotel Annecy Centre
4* Novotel Annecy Centre Hotel
4* Mercure Annecy Centre Hotel
3* Hotel Campanile Annecy Centre Ville
3* Hotel de Bonlieu Annecy Centre Ville
2* Hotel de Nord Annecy Centre Ville
For complete flexibility with your cycling vacation without using our accommodation our ‘Rides Only’ package is the perfect solution to get on this challenging French Alps cycling tour.
Arrange your own stay in the fantastic town of Annecy with one of the many hotels or apartments available to you. With complete flexibility enjoy this magnificent location and come to the daily rides just like you would back home!
What’s Included:
* Airport pick-up & drop-off Geneva International Airport (Switzerland) (tour arrival 3.00pm & departure midday)
* Welcome dinner a feast of French flavours
* 6 challenging rides in the French Alps the ultimate cycling holiday
* Highly experienced PB French Alps ride leaders
* Sports drinks & nutritional bars
If you or your group are looking for a custom experience for your perfect French Alps cycling vacation Contact Practice Bicycle today!
For your added convenience we welcome you in style with Dinner, a 3 course (Entree + Plat + Desert) feast of local French flavours.
Please note that drinks are not included in this trip package.
In a world of ‘individuality’ and cyclists various taste buds and eating habits, this is the perfect trip for you to choose when to eat, what to eat and where to eat!
Whatever your preference, you will find more than a weeks’ choice of great restaurants and varieties of cafes all within a few strides from you hotel (for the tired legs!).
Practice Bicycle are also happy to recommend/assist for you great dinner suggestions!
Cafe/boulangerie stops are facilitated during your rides each days.
For your added convenience we have quality carbon road bikes as an optional extra available to you with your French Alps bike tour.
Many of our guests prefer their own bikes for maximum cycling pleasure. Should logistics and travel arrangements make this too difficult then our bike hire is the perfect solution.
Depending on availability and size we have several brands available including Cannondale, Fuji, Lapierre carbon and E-Road bikes are recent models with Shimano Ultegra or 105 componentry.
‘Unpack Once, Ride Everyday’
The one location bike tour experience is the brainchild of Bridget (Owner/Operator). On retiring from professional cycling it was the pure pleasure of cycling that evolved the proven Practice Bicycle philosophy of one location. Including everything enjoyable and removing the less pleasurable is our goal of your perfect cycling holiday experience.
Packing and Unpacking each day is tiring, stressful and time consuming. With insufficient time to relax, enjoy and experience the unique location before it is time to move on again.
With a life time spent discovering the very best locations to Practice Bicycle, including the discovery of endless ride options exploring in every direction all from the one hotel.
Experience the very best cycling of your life when you Unpack Once, Ride Everyday!
Whether you have years of cycling experience or have only recently picked up the passion for cycling, the variety of terrain and routes on offer in this area of the French Alps is unbelievable.
Each of your challenging rides during your French Alps Bike Tour will be tailored specifically to your goals and your level of fitness, so every ride will be the best ride of your life.
Daily ride distances ranging from between 65-75km /40-47mi.
The French Alps bike tours are a pick of the best cycling routes in the French Alps suitable for regular cyclists who wish to enjoy the challenge of this cycling mecca. Experience counts for everything in this amazing part of the cycling world with your PB cycling itineraries designed, proven and tailored for your cycling in the French Alps week.
PB Tours have over 20 years of French Alps cycling experience, developing an incredible 100+ ride routes exploring in every direction a life time of the very best bike rides ready to share with you.
If you are looking for an epic alps cycling holiday with the ultimate test of 1,2 or 3 cols each day, take a look at our 17 Epic Alpine Cols with this incredible week of epic climbing in the alps.
French Alps Bike Tours include:
French Alps Bike Tour Highlights:
Similar challenging bike tours
Small group one location challenging cycling!
