Alpe d’Huez, the mythical climb

Itinerary no. 4 of the “Cycling in Oisans” guide (Oisans Tourisme)

Departure / Arrival: Bourg d'Oisans 720 m
Time: 2 h
Distance (R/T): 31 km
Highest point: 1850 m
Lowest point: 720 m
Total ascent: 1266 m
Max. gradient: 15%

Map: Michelin Local Map no. 333 Isère, Savoie

ITINERARY
The ride starts in front of the tourist office in Bourg d'Oisans.
From Bourg d’Oisans, follow the road towards Alpe d'Huez. Enjoy pedalling on the flat for a short kilometre before tackling the famous 21 bends.
The first bit is very hard, with 12% gradients for some sections. Make sure you save your energy on those first 2 to 3 kilometres. From Huez, 6 km from the finishing line, it will be easier to impose your rhythm.
When arriving at Alpe d'Huez, follow signs to “Office de Tourisme”, then follow the indications “Itinéraire du Tour de France” until the official arrival at the top of the Rif Nel avenue (above the Étendard roundabout).

THAT LITTLE BIT FURTHER: Lac Besson
You may wish to continue the road up to Lake Besson.
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Distance (R/T): 8 km
Time: 25 min
Total ascent: 232 m

The Tour de France
The “road up to Alpe”, as it is affectionately called, has become a cyclists’ sanctuary. It is unique and magical for its itinerary and its hairpin bends, each of which has a name and a number, and when the Tour de France passes by, its hillsides are all packed with spectators. On the very day of the Tour, both sides of the road are flanked with crowds along the 14 km ascent. The ride to Alpe d’Huez has become a real legend!