The French Alps: a symphony of defiance etched into the very soul of the earth.

The RAID French Alps traces the iconic Route des Grandes Alpes, weaving through historic climbs of the Tour de France and conquering some of the planet's most awe-inspiring mountain passes. Commencing at Lake Geneva, our journey ventures southward, traversing the Savoie, ascending the Massif des Écrins, crossing the Alpes de Haute Provence, and skirting the Alpes Maritimes before culminating in the azure embrace of the Côte d'Azur in Nice.

These roads are the crucible of cycling legends, where triumphs are etched in the ascent of a grueling 30-kilometer climb, offset by breathtaking panoramas and seemingly boundless descents on impeccably smooth roads. Glide past glaciers amidst Europe's formidable peaks, conquer remote, untamed cols, and eventually descend into the serenity and sophistication of the French Riviera, with its chic civilization and the inviting azure waters of the Mediterranean. This journey is a symphony of contrasts, where the rigors of the ascent yield to the warmth and allure of the coastal paradise.

Riders will explore the Alps in true RAID fashion, enjoying a carefully planned route set to showcase in the span of a week the best the the region has to offer, in addition to the expert care and support RAID is known for. Ride the Alpine roads that, thanks to the ideal conditions, have become a standard training ground for professionals, with sublime cliffs and wild forests known to inspire riders to perform at their highest level. We should expect the same on the climbs of our ride, and all will be rewarded as we savor the finest cuisine and lodging the region has to offer, as well as the most incredible views as we descend to the azure sea below.

D1 GENEVA - ÉVIAN

Upon landing at Geneva Airport, you'll be swiftly transported to the picturesque shores of Évian-les-Bains, where your enchanting accommodation for the evening awaits. After settling in, engage in the assembly of your bike and embark on a brief spin along the scenic shores of Lake Geneva, preparing yourself for the stages that lie ahead in the coming days. It's a seamless transition from arrival to anticipation, with the soothing ambiance of Évian-les-Bains setting the stage for the cycling to unfold.

O/N Hôtel La Verniaz

D2 ÉVIAN - MEGÈVE

80.8 mi / 12,206 Ft
130 km / 3,721 m

As you set out from the shores of Lake Geneva, breathtaking vistas accompany your ride towards the preliminary ascents of the Col de Cou and the Plaine Joux, serving as a gradual introduction to the impending challenge of the Colombiere. Reserve your energy wisely for its demanding final kilometer, where the gradient spikes to a formidable 10%. Following this test, the route gracefully transitions to the serene and picturesque Aravis, offering a contrast of gentle slopes and scenic beauty.

Summer in Megève is an absolute delight. The charming narrow alleys come alive with vibrant energy, and the terraces hum with activity.

O/N Novotel Megève Mont-Blanc Hotel

Ascents - Col du Cou, Plaine Joux, Col de la Colombiere (1,613m), Col Des Aravis (1,486m)

D3 MEGÈVE - LA LÉCHÈRE LES BAINS

81.7 mi / 14,763 Ft
131 km / 4,500 m

Departing from Megeve, cycling unfolds as we tackle the Col des Saisies before immersing ourselves in the enchanting landscapes and unexpected wonders of the Cormet de Roselend. This route takes us through wooded valleys and past ice-scoured rock faces, providing a captivating backdrop to our day. The ride continues with a sinuous descent to Bourg St Maurice, a road that gained notoriety when Johann Bruyneel faced an unexpected bend, adding a touch of intrigue to the winding roads ahead.

Nestled in the heart of the picturesque commune of La Léchère, the spa resort of La Léchère-les-Bains unfolds like a therapeutic haven in the Savoy region. The essence of relaxation permeates the air as visitors immerse themselves in the curative virtues of the mineral-rich waters. Amidst the scenic landscapes of Savoy, La Léchère-les-Bains stands as a harmonious blend of therapeutic indulgence and natural beauty.

O/N Hotel Radiana - La Léchère Les Bains

Ascents - Col de Saisies (1,577m), Cormet de Roselend (1,967m), Col du Tra (1,311m)

D4 LA LÉCHÈRE LES BAINS - l’ALPE D’HUEZ

75.6 mi / 13,123 Ft
121 km / 4,000 m

Unveiling a route befitting a stage from the Grand Tour, culminating triumphantly at the summit of Alpe d'Huez. Along this challenging route, riders will conquer the formidable ascents of the Madeleine and Glandon, showcasing some of the most exceptional and historically significant riding in the Northern Alps. One notable event occurred during the 1979 Tour de France when legendary French cyclist Bernard Hinault, adorned in the yellow jersey, suffered a mechanical failure on the Glandon. Despite this setback, Hinault demonstrated remarkable resilience, fixing his bike himself and ultimately winning the stage.

The inaugural mountain-top finish in the Tour de France has consistently lived up to its reputation as the most iconic in the race's storied history. While it may not claim the title of the steepest or longest ascent in the Tour, the Alpe d'Huez stands head and shoulders above all others as the most renowned peak in the race's extensive repertoire.

With thousands of fervent fans lining its slopes to passionately cheer on their cycling heroes, and 21 numbered switchbacks, each bearing the names of past winners, Alpe d'Huez encapsulates the fervor and spirit that define the essence of the Tour de France. It has become a symbol of the race, a testament to the enduring passion and legacy that permeate the historic event.

O/N Grandes Rousses Hotel & Spa

Ascents - Col de la Madeleine (1,993m), Col Du Glandon (1,924m), L’Alpe d’Huez (1,850m)

D5 l’ALPE D’HUEZ - BARCELONNETTE

107.8 mi / 14,575 Ft
173.5 km / 4,442 m

Descending from Alpe d'Huez, we navigate the extraordinary back road, the Col de Sarenne, setting the stage for the ensuing long, gradual ascent of the Lautaret. Revel in the descent into Briancon, only to face yet another legendary climb—the Col d'Izoard, famously dubbed Fausto Coppi's mountain. The journey continues with the ascent of the Col de Vars, edging us closer to the Italian border before our arrival in Jausiers. This route promises a symphony of descents and ascents, each curve and climb unveiling the breathtaking beauty of the landscape in this ride.

Captured in timeless black and white photographs as the backdrop to the heroic feats of cycling's pioneers, the extraordinary landscape of the Casse Déserte unfolds as a photographer's idyllic dream. Towering far above, more untamed and grandiose than the famed Alpe d'Huez, which, let's admit, is no more than 21 bends leading to a ski village, the Col d'Izoard surpasses even the formidable Galibier and Mont Ventoux in the sheer majesty of its awe-inspiring scenery. There exists no other mountain pass quite like it in all of Europe. The col stands as a testament to the unparalleled beauty that graces the landscape of cycling's iconic routes.

O/N Hotel SPA Azteca

Ascents - Col de Sarenne (1,999m), Col de Lautaret (2,058m), Col d’Izoard (2,360m), Col de Vars (2,108m)

D6 BARCELONNETTE - CASTELLANE

78 mi / 9,491 Ft
125 km / 2,893 m

Nestled in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence department within the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region, the Col de la Cayolle serves as a vital link between the valleys of Ubaye to the north, Bachelard, and the Var to the south. This winding route meanders through lush meadows, dense forests, cascading waterfalls, charming bridges, and picturesque hamlets.

Like the passes of Vars, Larche, Bonnette, and Allos, the Col de la Cayolle provides an escape from the Ubaye Valley. The ascent within the Mercantour National Park area is nothing short of exceptional. Descending into the Val d'Entraune, the journey unveils breathtaking sights, including the Bachelard gorges, road artworks dating back to 1910, the Cascade Bridge, and the scenic Estenc and the source of the Var.

Having been a stage of the Tour de France three times, the Cayolle Pass witnessed memorable crossings by Jean Robic in 1950, Charly Gaul in 1955, and Vicente Lopez Carril in 1973. The decision to construct this road was made in 1894, aiming to establish a connection between Nice and the Ubaye Valley via Entraunes and the Col de la Cayolle, initially driven by military considerations. The ambitious project saw completion in 1914, marking a testament to both engineering prowess and the road's enduring significance.

O/N Hôtel du Levant

Ascent - Col de la Cayolle (2,326 m), Col des Toutes Aures (1,121m)

D6 CASTELLANE - NICE

74.5 mi / 6,607 Ft
120 km / 2,014 m

Stretching from the Alpes Maritimes and the hinterlands of Nice to the azure embrace of the sea, the astonishing proximity of these mountains to the Mediterranean is truly captivating. Negotiating the challenging wooded switchbacks of the Col de Luens offers a test of skill, but the subsequent descent promises a thrilling speed rush. Concluding our journey is the renowned Col de Vence, a favored training slope for the region's many professional cyclists. As we reach the stylish city of Nice, the Italianate capital of the Côte d'Azur, a chic welcome awaits, followed by a memorable celebration meal.

O/N Le Saint Paul

Ascent - Col de Luens (1054m), Col de Bleine (1,439m), Col de Vence (963m)

D7 NICE - DEPART

We will assist with your transport to Nice Côte d'Azur Airport (NCE) for your journey home.