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Tuscany Bike Tour

Tour de France Ultimate Experience: Tuscany Grand Depart 2024

Immerse yourself in the beauty of Siena with unparalleled Lidl-Trek team access and VIP race viewings.

Tour Duration

Activity Level

Hotel Level

Trek Domane SL 7 Trek Electric-Assist Domane+ SLR 7 Trek Electric-Assist Verve+

Starting from

$ 6,799.00 per person

Have a question?

Experience the ultimate Lidl-Trek team access and VIP race viewings at the Tour de France Grand Depart in the heart of Tuscany.

Exclusive Pro Team Access—get behind the scenes with Team Lidl-Trek!

• Official VIP Race access passes to the Grand Depart of Stage 1 in Florence

Ride along quiet roads lined with cypress trees in the beautiful Tuscan landscape and stay at boutique hotels in Chianti and Florence

Experience an intimate gathering with the Mascheroni Stianti family at a gourmet lunch paired with an exquisite wine tasting at their hidden estate, Castello di Volpaia

Ride in style on a full carbon Trek Domane 7 SL Disc bike with electronic Di2 shifting or choose to upgrade to the Trek Domane+ SLR 7 and enjoy first-class, fully dedicated VIP support from the Trek Travel team

Exclusive Pro Team Access—get behind the scenes with Lidl-Trek!

Tour de France: The Grand Depart

As the Official Tour Operator for both the Tour de France and the Lidl-Trek racing team, only Trek Travel can offer this exclusive VIP trip with unparalleled behind-the-scenes access to the team at the heart of the world’s premier cycling race.

What Guests are Saying

This was absolutely the best run trip that I have ever been on. The guides were super both in the pre-planning and the execution.

Thomas, Trek Travel Guest

From the routes put together for each ride, to the unprecedented access to the Tour, and the amazing guides this is a trip that will not only fulfill a bucket list trip it will leave you amazed at how no detail is overlooked and understanding that Trek Travel has a commitment to a cycling experience that cannot be matched.

Josh, Trek Travel Guest

Thank you Trek Travel for an amazing 60th birthday Tour De France experience. Our hosts were super smart and were the life of the party. The entire experience including the lodging and transportation were first class.

Nick, Trek Travel Guest

The riding was spectacular. The routes were incredible. Accommodations and dining were spot on. The best part of the trip were the guides. I could not have asked for anything more. Worth every cent!

Bill, Trek Travel Guest

Dates & Pricing

Book early for the best price

Join Waitlist

Limited Availability

June 25-30, 2024 limited availability.

Hotels you`ll stay at on this date:

Villa Curina Resort

Palazzo Montebello

Available bikes:

Trek Domane SL 7

Trek electric-assist domane+ slr 7.

• Trek Electric-Assist Verve+ 3

$ 6799.00 per person

Double Occupancy

Single Occupancy from: + 1,999.00

You have another booking already in progress

Booking a new trip will cancel all of your previous booking progress. Continue your previous booking or proceed with your new booking.

Arrival / Departure

Where to Arrive

Florence - Amerigo Vespucci Airport (FLR)

Pick-up location :

Palazzo Montebello, Florence, Italy

Pick-up time :

Where to Depart

Drop-off location :

Drop-off time :

Additional Arrival Information

We suggest that you arrive at least one day prior to the start of your bike tour in Tuscany, which will enable you to adjust to the time zone and minimize the risk of missing the trip start due to flight-related delays. We recommend that you fly into Florence’s Amerigo Vespucci Airport (FLR). The Florence airport is about three miles from the town center. You can take a taxi directly to the hotel (for approximately 20 euros) or a bus which departs hourly.

Rome and Milan also offer flight options. From Rome’s Fiumicino Airport (FCO), you may take a direct train to Rome’s central station, Roma Termini. Follow the “Stazione/Railway Station” signs. Trains depart twice hourly. Tickets can be purchased at a Biglietteria office or from ticket machines. All tickets must be validated before getting on the train: do this by stamping your ticket at the yellow boxes near the platform. The ride takes 30 minutes. From Roma Termini, transfer to a train for Florence. The Eurostar trains depart frequently and are the quickest. The trip takes one and a half hours and costs between 44-62 euros one way per person. In Florence, taxis are available to take you to your hotel. Taxi service is available from Rome Fiumicino Airport to central Rome for approximately 50 euros.

Your Trek Travel guides will meet you at the Palazzo Montebello (Via Giuseppe Garibaldi, 14, 50123 Florence, Italy) at 11:00 AM on the first day of the trip. You’ll then shuttle 90 minutes to your lunch spot for your first taste of delicious Tuscan cuisine. After lunch, your guides will do a bike fitting to ensure your comfort on your Trek Domane this week, before you take your first spin through the countryside. Please have your first day’s riding gear handy and separate from your other luggage to facilitate the bike fitting and ride.

If you will be late for the pick-up or are going to miss it altogether, please inform your guides. If you cannot reach them, please call your first hotel, Villa Curina Resort in Castelnuovo Berardenga (+39 0577 355630), and leave a message with your expected arrival time and contact details. You may take a taxi to the first night’s hotel for approximately 150 euros. The trip takes over an hour from the center of Florence.

Additional Departure Information

You will say farewell to your guides at 9:30 AM at the Palazzo Montebello in Florence, with a check-out time of 12:00 PM. Please make your own onward travel arrangements. The hotel is a 10-minute taxi to the Santa Maria Novella train station where trains connect to many European cities. Please do not book seats before 1:30 PM, allowing adequate connection time for any ongoing travel or possible traffic delays. The airport in Florence (FLR) is three miles from the city. You can reach it by train, taxi, or shuttle bus; please do not schedule a flight prior to 12:00 PM. Visit www.TrenItalia.com for train information.

Day 1 Enjoy a warm up ride through ancient olive groves!

Enjoy a warm up ride through ancient olive groves!

Your Trek Travel guides will meet you at the Palazzo Montebello at 11:00 AM on the first day of your Tour de France bike tour in Tuscany. After a 90-minute shuttle, you will arrive at the historic Badia a Coltibuono, or "Abbey of the Good Harvest", for a delicious lunch with stunning views of the Chianti hills. Your Trek Travel guides will then familiarize you with your Trek bicycle, ensuring you have an excellent fit. A warmup ride takes you along picturesque, win... Your Trek Travel guides will meet you at the Palazzo Montebello at 11:00 AM on the first day of your Tour de France bike tour in Tuscany. After a 90-minute shuttle, you will arrive at the historic Badia a Coltibuono, or "Abbey of the Good Harvest", for a delicious lunch with stunning views of the Chianti hills. Your Trek Travel guides will then familiarize you with your Trek bicycle, ensuring you have an excellent fit. A warmup ride takes you along picturesque, winding roads through ancient olive groves, before you make your way to the elegant Villa Curina, originally a 16th-century hamlet nestled peacefully in the hills of Chianti, where you will be hosted for the next three nights. This evening, enjoy a warm welcome as we gather for drinks on the terrace overlooking Tuscan vineyards and discuss details of the exciting week ahead. Read More

Meals included

Lunch | Social Hour | Dinner

Highlight of the Day

Welcome to Tuscany and enjoy a picturesque warm up ride

A warmup ride takes you along winding roads through ancient olive groves, before you make your way to your hotel, the elegant Villa Curina i... A warmup ride takes you along winding roads through ancient olive groves, before you make your way to your hotel, the elegant Villa Curina in the hills of Chianti. Read More

Ride Options

Ride Option 1

TODAY'S RIDE:

Badia a Coltibuono to Villa Curina - Approximately 19 mi | 31 km and 1,640 ft | 500 m

Day 2 Wine tasting at Castello di Volpaia and an evening exploring Siena

Wine tasting at Castello di Volpaia and an evening exploring Siena

Slowly awaken to another perfect day in Tuscany! Today’s ride traverses the forested hills and olive groves of the celebrated Chianti region. Pedal through the village of Lecchi and enjoy an espresso with the locals before continuing up to Radda, the ancient capital of the League of Chianti. Take time to explore this vibrant village, filled with art galleries, gourmet food and wine shops—the perfect place to pick up some mementos to take home. Your midday destin... Slowly awaken to another perfect day in Tuscany! Today’s ride traverses the forested hills and olive groves of the celebrated Chianti region. Pedal through the village of Lecchi and enjoy an espresso with the locals before continuing up to Radda, the ancient capital of the League of Chianti. Take time to explore this vibrant village, filled with art galleries, gourmet food and wine shops—the perfect place to pick up some mementos to take home. Your midday destination is Castello di Volpaia, where the Mascheroni Stianti family personally welcomes you for a spectacular wine-paired lunch in their villa. Afterward, enjoy an exclusive visit of the castle’s cellars and olive oil press. From here, shuttle back to our hotel for a dip in the pool or hop back on your bike to return by way of rolling hills and scenic vineyards. This evening, we’ll shuttle into the medieval town of Siena where you'll learn the secrets of this historic city from our local guide and see the world-famous Duomo and the Piazza del Campo. Afterward, we´ll savor dinner at a typical trattoria and be sure to finish our fabulous day with a world-class gelato! Read More

Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Discover the delights of medieval Siena

Experience the medieval town of Siena where you'll learn the secrets of this historic city from our local guide and see the world-famous Duo... Experience the medieval town of Siena where you'll learn the secrets of this historic city from our local guide and see the world-famous Duomo and the Piazza del Campo. Then, explore the beautiful cobbled streets on your own before choosing a trattoria for a delicious dinner. Read More

Villa Curina to Volpaia with Shuttle - Approximately 24 mi | 38 km and 3,363 ft | 1,025 m

Ride Option 2

SHORT OPTION:

Villa Curina to Radda with Shuttle - Approximately 19 mi | 36 km and 2,500 ft | 700 m

Ride Option 3

AVID OPTION:

Villa Curina to Volpaia Loop - Approximately 44 mi | 71 km and 5,050 ft | 1,540 m

Day 3 Discover the history of Castello di Brolio

Discover the history of Castello di Brolio

Following a relaxing breakfast, this morning you’ll cruise through the Chianti vineyards where you'll be rewarded by rich panoramic views of rolling, sun-drenched Tuscan hills. Choose to stop and explore the Castello di Brolio, the oldest castle and winery in the area, which has belonged to the Ricasoli family for nearly 800 years. Stop for an espresso at their Eroica Caffè, named after L’Eroica, the local cycling event on the strade bianche with conte... Following a relaxing breakfast, this morning you’ll cruise through the Chianti vineyards where you'll be rewarded by rich panoramic views of rolling, sun-drenched Tuscan hills. Choose to stop and explore the Castello di Brolio, the oldest castle and winery in the area, which has belonged to the Ricasoli family for nearly 800 years. Stop for an espresso at their Eroica Caffè, named after L’Eroica, the local cycling event on the strade bianche with contestants riding vintage bikes in full vintage regalia. Then choose to climb up into the hills to Monteluco, one of the highest points in Chianti, or continue on to the quaint village of Villa a Sesta, our lunch destination. Enjoy true Tuscan hospitality as you savor the cuisine of Osteria alla Villa, a small bistro that serves up fresh and creative dishes. This afternoon choose to bike back or jump on a short shuttle to the hotel for a dip in the pool or relax before we gather for a chef-inspired pizza dinner in the evening. Read More

Explore the Castello di Brolio

The oldest castle and winery in the area, which has belonged to the Ricasoli family for nearly 800 years. Stop for an espresso at their Eroi... The oldest castle and winery in the area, which has belonged to the Ricasoli family for nearly 800 years. Stop for an espresso at their Eroica Caffè, named after L’Eroica, the local cycling event on the strade bianche with contestants riding vintage bikes in full vintage regalia. Read More

Villa Curina to Castello di Brolio Loop - Approximately 40 mi | 64 km and 3,800 ft | 1,160 m

Villa Curina to Castello di Brolio with Shuttle - Approximately 22 mi | 36 km and 3,800 ft | 700 m

Villa Curina to Monteluco Loop - Approximately 52 mi | 83 km and 5,735 ft | 1,750 m

Day 4 Transfer to Florence and experience an exclusive pro team Lidl-Trek event

Transfer to Florence and experience an exclusive pro team Lidl-Trek event

Wake up to the anticipation of live race action in Florence as we head to this historic and picturesque city, gearing up for its first-ever Grand Depart in Italy! Rise early for a final spin through the scenic hills of Chianti, before we shuttle to Florence. This afternoon, enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes experience with Lidl-Trek. Join team representatives for a Q&A cocktail hour and, if race regulations permit, take a tour of the team bus while watching the m... Wake up to the anticipation of live race action in Florence as we head to this historic and picturesque city, gearing up for its first-ever Grand Depart in Italy! Rise early for a final spin through the scenic hills of Chianti, before we shuttle to Florence. This afternoon, enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes experience with Lidl-Trek. Join team representatives for a Q&A cocktail hour and, if race regulations permit, take a tour of the team bus while watching the mechanics prepare the pros' bikes. Soak in the excitement and afterward, check into our luxurious 4-star Palazzo Montebello in the heart of the city. Tonight, Florence is yours to discover and dine at the restaurant of your choice. Be sure to get some rest as we gear up for tomorrow’s first stage of the 2024 Tour de France! Read More

Breakfast | Lunch | Social Hour

Enjoy an exclusive pro team Lidl-Trek event

Join team representatives for a Q&A cocktail hour and, if race regulations permit, take a tour of the team bus while watching the mechanics ... Join team representatives for a Q&A cocktail hour and, if race regulations permit, take a tour of the team bus while watching the mechanics prepare the pros' bikes. Read More

Villa Curina Tuscan Loop - Approximately 19 mi | 31 km and 1,950 ft | 590 m

TODAY'S TEAM ACCESS:

Exclusive pro team Lidl-Trek event

Day 5 Official VIP Race access passes to the Grand Depart in Florence

Official VIP Race access passes to the Grand Depart in Florence

This morning, we have a unique VIP experience at the Grand Depart of this year's Tour de France. With our exclusive VIP passes, we'll visit the official stage departure village. You can stroll through the village, and snap photos of the pros as they warm up to prepare for today's stage. Then, position yourself to watch the race's exciting start and cheer on the teams as they begin their journey from Florence to Emilio Romagne. They'll tackle a challenging route, rid... This morning, we have a unique VIP experience at the Grand Depart of this year's Tour de France. With our exclusive VIP passes, we'll visit the official stage departure village. You can stroll through the village, and snap photos of the pros as they warm up to prepare for today's stage. Then, position yourself to watch the race's exciting start and cheer on the teams as they begin their journey from Florence to Emilio Romagne. They'll tackle a challenging route, riding 125 miles and climbing over 12,000 feet through the Apennine mountains, ending in the coastal town of Rimini. After the riders have set off, if time allows, you'll take a spin around the outskirts of Florence. Your heart will race with excitement as you return to the bustling city center to watch the thrilling end of the sprint stage on TV at our hotel. Who will be the first rider to claim the coveted yellow jersey? Tonight, we'll all gather for a special gourmet dinner, surrounded by the camaraderie of new friends. As we raise our glasses, it'll be a celebration of an extraordinary and unforgettable week! Read More

Breakfast | Social Hour | Dinner

With our exclusive VIP passes, we'll visit the official stage departure village. You can stroll through the village, and snap photos of the ... With our exclusive VIP passes, we'll visit the official stage departure village. You can stroll through the village, and snap photos of the pros as they warm up to prepare for today's stage. Then, position yourself to watch the race's exciting start and cheer on the teams as they begin their journey from Florence to Emilio Romagne Read More

Grand Depart Loop - Approximately 12 mi | 19 km and 666 ft | 203 m

TODAY'S RACE ACCESS:

TODAY'S TOUR STAGE:

Stage 1: Florence to Rimini

Day 6 Ciao!

After an amazing time together, your trip of a lifetime comes to a close. Choose to sleep in today or enjoy a relaxing breakfast at the hotel as you reflect on the lasting memories you’ve made. You’ll say farewell to your guides at 9:30 AM at the Palazzo Montebello but you can enjoy a 12:00 PM checkout time. Please make your own onward travel arrangements to the airport, train station, or other destination of your choice.

Stage 2: Cesenatico to Bologna

Print full itinerary

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Rider Information

Rider Level: 3

Terrain: Hilly

The terrain is consistently hilly, with quiet, narrow, and winding roads. Many towns sit atop hills and, although the ascents are not exceptionally steep, they are often upwards of five kilometers long. Our Tour de France Tuscany Grand Depart pro race tour is best suited for our Type 3 Riders. Our Trek Travel guides can also easily accommodate Type 2 Riders, who seek less mileage or fewer uphills, with a boost in the van. For those eager to experience every mile but mindful of their physical limits, our electric bike option offers a comfortable and enjoyable solution. Type 4+ Riders will enjoy the extra mileage the avid route options offer.

Daily Average

28 miles | 45 kilometers

147 miles | 236 kilometers

2,840 feet | 865 meters

14,200 feet | 4,330 meters

On most Trek Travel trips, we offer non-riding options for riders who want to take the afternoon off, or travel companions who want to spend little or no time in the saddle. Some of these options may need to be scheduled before your trip–please contact one of our Trip Consultants for more information. Expenses and/or related transportation to these activities may not be included in the trip price. Some non-riding options on this trip are:

• Explore the charming city of Florence or consider taking a walking tour
• Discover why Tuscan wines are so renowned during our private wine-tasting
• Visit historic Siena
• Relax by the beautiful pool at Villa Curina

We've got you covered on and off the bike! Our team of guides will always have one in the support vehicle and one on the bike, ready to fill up your water bottles, fix a flat tire, or give you a lift up the hill. They'll also give you the inside scoop on the best local spots. And when you're not riding, your guides are happy to help with anything you need - from massage appointments to finding that special local treat you've been craving.

• Fully guided and supported with two guides and one van minimum
• Up to three daily route options on a pre-loaded Garmin GPS
• Additional guides and vehicles added dependent upon guest count and trip logistics

Set peacefully in the countryside, surrounded by the verdant hills of Chianti and close to Siena, this charming hotel has it all, including rich sunset views; incredibly romantic, well-appointed and individually decorated rooms; a refined, elegant restaurant; and beautiful gardens that surround the entire property, all encompassed in a 16th century hamlet that has a long and rich history.

Set in the heart of Florence, Palazzo Montebello is a testament to comfort and history. This 18th-century boutique hotel is a moments walk from landmarks like Ponte Vecchio and the Duomo. Guests are treated to rooms adorned with rich fabrics, marble bathrooms, and flat-screen TVs. The hotel boasts a gourmet restaurant with courtyard dining, an elegant cocktail bar with garden views, and premium amenities like feather quilts and Egyptian cotton linens. it’s the epitome of Florentine elegance.

Bikes & Gear

Experiencing your cycling vacation of a lifetime is not complete without a world-class bike and the Trek Domane SL 7 Gen 4 is the best on the road. It raises the bar to deliver incredible endurance road bike comfort without sacrificing performance and features highly responsive disc brakes, road-smoothing IsoSpeed technology, and electronic shifting. This new bike is lighter than ever before, and carbon wheels are standard on every Domane SL 7 bike.

Upgrade your experience on the Domane+ SLR 7. It has everything you love in a road bike, with the extra boost to take you farther than ever before. With an ultra-lightweight design and a whisper quiet electric assist motor, this performance e-road bike will assist you on the climbs and enable you to venture further. So go ahead—take the long way. With Domane+ SLR 7, there’s always room for more distance and more fun! Upgrade to the Domane+ SLR 7 on this trip for $399 (3-6 day trips) or $599 (7+ day trips). Available in limited quantities. See specific trip dates for available bike options.

Trek Electric-Assist Verve+

Fun from the first pedal stroke, venture further on our Trek Verve+. With its low-step frame design, upright riding position, and the barely-there Bosch electric motor, the Verve+ has one goal: pure enjoyment. Designed for both comfort and adventure, get a boost up the hills when you need it with energy to spare.

Trek Travel Guides

The World’s Best

From the moment you meet our guides, you'll understand the difference. You'll feel the genuine care they take to make your vacation perfect. From their expert support to sharing their favorite hidden spots, they tailor every moment to you.

Additional Gear

• Trek Travel Santini cycling jersey to keep
• Trek Travel Santini cycling socks to keep
• Lidl-Trek Pro Team Santini cycling kit to keep
• Trek Travel water bottles to keep
• Cinch sack day bag to keep
• Bontrager saddle
• Bontrager helmet
• Bontrager front and rear Flare R lights
• Garmin Edge 1030 GPS computer with pre-loaded routes
• Shimano SPD-SL road style pedals, Shimano SPD mountain style pedals, caged, or flat pedals
• A flat pack containing a tube, levers, and a CO2 cartridge with inflator
• For the most comfortable ride, we recommend you bring your own saddle. If you prefer, you can bring your own pedals and helmet on the trip and our guides will install your gear on the first day during your bike fit.

Trip Inclusions

• Five nights of accommodation at handpicked hotels
• Two experienced guides to provide local knowledge, support, and camaraderie
• Daily route support with both guides and our support van
• Daily breakfast, four lunches, and four dinners
• Three social hours of drinks and hors d'oeuvres
• Ride With GPS Experience for your phone with daily itinerary and route navigation information

• Up to three daily route options on riding days
• Snacks and drinks for each day's ride
• OTE Energy Gels
• All gratuities for drivers, local experts, and hospitality staff
• All luggage transfers and transportation during your trip
• A digital photo album of your trip
• Entrance fees for all activities, private tours, and events
• Exclusive Pro Team Access—get behind the scenes with Lidl-Trek
• Gratuities for all scheduled special events, restaurants, hotels, local guides, and transportation during your trip
• Private tours
• Entrance fees to all group events/activities
• All transportation during the trip, including private coaches

• Airfare and transportation to and from the trip pick-up/drop-off locations
• Lodging before and after the trip
• Personal items purchased during the trip
• Optional activities not scheduled by Trek Travel
• On select trips some meals are not included. On these trips, Trek Travel invites you to explore the local cuisine at your leisure.

Guide Gratuities

Guide gratuities are customary and at your own discretion, to recognize service, hospitality, and the little extras that surprise and delight. For this trip, we recommend $420-$480 per guest. While local currency is preferred, there are other options to make tipping easier. Most guides accept gratuity via PayPal or our staff can help before or after the trip. Gratuities will be divided among the guide team, so feel free to leave your gratuity with whomever you choose at the end of your trip.

Additional Details

Know Before You Go!

We want you to be fully prepared for your cycling vacation of a lifetime. This involves making sure that you choose the appropriate trip for you and that every aspect of your experience is flawless. Each Trek Travel trip is unique to ensure maximum enjoyment every time.

Your Trip Need to Knows:

• The Trek Travel Race Trip Difference : As Lidl-Trek’s Official Hospitality Partner, Trek Travel will deliver you to the world’s biggest races like you’ve only dreamed, and you can ride a Trek Domane SL 7 Disc bike with us on the very same routes just hours before the pros. Learn about our Race Trip Difference.
• Our itineraries are created with the best information we have available to us at the time. Unforeseen events can affect the race, the race course, and this itinerary. Access to VIP areas and race viewings can require early morning starts, shuttles and delays in race traffic. The routes, timing, hotels, activities, etc. listed here may change at the discretion of the trip designer or guides in order to maximize the trip experience.

Before and After Your Trip

Florence, Italy

Florence is the majestic heart of Renaissance art and intellect. Several days can be spent wandering the streets in the shadow of Brunelleschi’s Duomo and strolling beside the Arno. Along with the Duomo and Ponte Vecchio, the Uffizi gallery, a pillar of the Renaissance and Medici eras, merits a visit. Michelangeo’s David in the Galleria dell’Arte is not to be missed either. Keep in mind while exploring Florence that opening hours vary and are quite often inconsistent. Different museums are open on different days and lines can be very long. It’s worthwhile to pay a few extra euros and pre-book your tickets—this will enable you to bypass long lines of visitors at the entrances. We recommend the following accommodations for your pre- and post-trip hotel:

Where to Stay

The Palazzo Montebello is an elegant 5-star, boutique hotel located just 10 minutes walk from all the main monuments and points of interest in Florence. Take advantage of their concierge services to plan your stay in Florence to the last detail. Please note : This is also your first day meeting point and the second trip hotel in Florence. www.palazzomontebello.com/en/

Escape the bustle of the city in the immaculately restored 18th-century Villa Cora. An outstanding hotel offering superb facilities, impeccable service, and a best-of-both-worlds location, just a 15-minute walk or a quick shuttle bus to the Ponte Vecchio and downtown. The lovely rose-filled gardens and large pool are a calm, cool refuge after a busy day in central Florence. Enjoy a day at their luxurious spa, "Bené", take a cooking class, or simply enjoy a cocktail with skyline views of the city on the rooftop terrace. www.villacora.it

Number Nine

This brand new luxury boutique hotel is located in a noble Florentine residence and has been given individual design attention to all its 46 rooms. Enjoy the finest comfort and hospitality for the discerning, modern traveller while taking full advantage of its central location and savoring the heart and soul of Florence. www.FirenzeNumberNine.com

Packing and Weather

Summers in Tuscany tend to be hot with higher daytime temperatures (80-95ºF/27-35ºC) and evening temperatures 10 degrees cooler. Rain is always a possibility, however, so be prepared with wet-weather gear in order to best enjoy your vacation. View our Packing List

Ready to book?

To reserve your space on a trip, you can either call us at 866-464-8735 to speak with an expert Trip Consultant or book online any time by clicking the “BOOK THIS TRIP” icon near the upper right of each destination’s overview page.* Once you have submitted your reservation online, a Trip Consultant will contact you within one business day to answer any questions you may have and to confirm space, bike, and room availability on your desired trip. Your booking will be finalized once your no-risk deposit is paid. If you make a reservation more than 90 days prior to the trip, a $750 no risk deposit is due at the time of booking.** If you reserve your trip less than 90 days prior to the departure, the full balance is due at the time of booking. Once your booking is complete you will receive an email confirmation with important information pertaining to your trip.

*Please note that select trips cannot be booked online at this time. For those trips, please call a trip consultant at 866-464-8735.

**Deposit amounts vary for all Race, Cross Country, Special Edition, Ride Camp, Discover, and Self-Guided tours. Please confirm deposit amounts for all trips with your Trip Consultant at time of booking.

What happens once I book?

When a trip is booked, a guest confirmation email is immediately sent out. One week prior to the trip start, you’ll receive an email containing your trip start meeting location reminder and any last-minute information that you’ll need to know. You will also receive instructions to download the Ride with GPS app before your trip to provide you the day to day plan and daily route guides.

Guaranteed to run

With one person booked on a date, the trip becomes guaranteed.*

In the case where trips are at one or two guests, we will contact you prior to final payment to give you the following options:

Pay a small trip fee of $500 per person for two guests or $1000 for one guest, which ensures your preferred trip date will run. If there are three or more guests before departure date, the fee will be refunded in full.

Switch to a different trip or different departure date. Should there be any difference in trip price between your original trip and the new one, you will be expected to pay the difference, or we will refund you accordingly.

Offer only valid if Trek Travel contacts a guest to discuss these specific options. Bike trips with fewer than three guests may operate with only one guide. The guide will support all rides with a Trek Travel van. If you would like to discuss the option of having two guides, please speak with your trip consultant.

The small trip supplement for Ride Camps is as follows – for two guests an additional $250 or for one guest an additional $500.

*Cross Country, Discover, Race, and Special Edition trips as well as a small number of select departures have a minimum guest count to guarantee. Please check with your Trip Consultant for more information.

Unforeseen events may make it necessary to cancel or modify a trip. Our Guest Services team will update you with any changes. We reserve the right to cancel departures in cases of force majeure or the failure of third parties—such as hotels—to honor their reservations, in which case all payments received to date will be refunded, which constitutes full settlement. Trek Travel is not responsible for expenses incurred in preparation for any canceled trips, such as airline tickets, or for costs that are incurred due to travel delays, flight cancellations, or illness. We strongly encourage Travel Protection for complete coverage.

What if I have to cancel my trip?

We understand things happen in life and sometimes you have to cancel or change your tour.

Read our Cancellation Policy

Our Trip Consultants are available to assist and can answer your questions. Please call us at 866-464-8735.

Travel Protection

Trek Travel recommends that you purchase a travel protection plan to help safeguard you and your travel investment against the unexpected. We offer a travel protection plan through Arch RoamRight that provides coverage for unforeseen events that could affect your ability to travel with us. Learn more about our Travel Protection

Travel Services

We've collaborated with a specialized travel agency committed to delivering tailored vacation planning, ensuring your entire Trek Travel journey is nothing short of unforgettable. Learn more about our Travel Services

Sharing the joy that comes with wow moments

Trek Travel guides are dedicated to making moments that last a lifetime, and we invite you to thank them with a trip gratuity. These are customary and at your own discretion, to recognize service, hospitality, and the little extras that surprise and delight. For this Pro Race trip, we recommend $420-$480 per guest and, of course, you may choose to give more if your guides made your trip an unforgettable experience.

Like everything else about your vacation, the Trek Travel team is here to make this experience easier for you. While local currency is preferred, you may also tip through the following options:

Via PayPal (please have this account set up in advance when possible) or with your guest services representative on the phone before or after the trip.

Gratuities will be divided among the guide team, so feel free to leave your gratuity with whomever you choose at the end of your trip.

You cannot put a price on a wow . But you can show your thanks for an exceptional experience.

General FAQs

Didn't find what you were looking for? Check out our General FAQs section. You will find answers to the most common questions that don't necessarily pertain to a specific trip. See FAQs

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Guaranteed trips.

Our trips are guaranteed to run once we have one confirmed booking on the trip.  Click here to view our full guarantee policy .

Trek Travel reserves the right to cancel trips with zero guests, therefore you must book with Trek Travel before making travel arrangements for the trip. We are not responsible for travel arrangements made prior to confirming your Trek Travel Trip. Select trips are not guaranteed.

Sold Out/Waitlist

This trip is currently sold out, but you may be added to the waitlist in the case of availability.

If a date is marked with Limited Availability, there are few spots left to book. We will secure additional rooms from our hotels before confirming your reservation.

Looking to travel with a small group? Ask our trip consultants about private trips and learn more .

What are your trip styles?

Classic - reserve:.

Savor the finer things as you relax in luxurious 5-star accommodations and wine, dine, and ride in some of the most unforgettable destinations around the world.

Classic - Signature:

Explore beautiful destinations by bike, enjoy extra inclusions, savor delicious local cuisine, and enjoy the perfect mix of accommodations.

Classic - Discovor:

Enjoy a casual cycling vacation with fantastic routes and comfortable accommodations.

Train like the pros in some of their favorite riding destinations.

See the pros in action at the biggest cycling events of the year.

Cross Country:

Tackle an epic adventure that takes you point-to-point across mountains, countryside, and more.

Self-Guided

Enjoy a bike tour on your schedule with just your chosen travel companions.

If a date is marked as Private, it is reserved for a private group.

Looking to travel with a small group or looking for a custom date? Call our trip consultants at 866-464-8735

What is the Difference?

Ultimate luxury:.

Savor some of the most spectacular, 5-star properties in the world. Exuding luxury and elegance, these one-of-a-kind accommodations offer the chance to rejuvenate at award-winning spas, dine at Michelin-starred restaurants, and more.

Enjoy luxurious accommodations handpicked for a refined experience. From signature spa treatments to delicious local cuisine, you’ll be more than provided for; you’ll be pampered.

These handpicked hotels provide relaxation and fun in a casual and comfortable environment. Delicious cuisine and great service mix perfectly for a memorable stay.

On select cycling vacations, you’ll stay at a mix of hotel levels, from Explorer to Luxury to Ultimate Luxury. Rest assured, no matter which level of hotel you’re at, our trip designers carefully select every accommodation.

Road : 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 25 mi (40 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Gravel: 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 20 mi (35 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Hiking: 1-3 hours of hiking. Up to 5 mi (8 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Road : 2-4 hours of riding. 20-35 mi (35-60 km). Up to 2,500 ft (750 m).

Gravel: 2-4 hours of riding. 15-30 mi (25-45 km). Up to 2,000 ft (300 m).

Hiking: 2-4 hours of hiking. 4-8 mi (6-12 km). Up to 1,500 ft (450 m).

Road : 3-5 hours of riding. 25-55 mi (40-85 km). Up to 4,500 ft (1,500 m).

Gravel: 3-5 hours of riding. 20-40 mi (35-60 km). Up to 3,000 ft (900 m).

Hiking: 3-5 hours of hiking. 6-10 mi (9-16 km). Up to 2,000 ft (600 m).

Road : 4+ hours of riding. 40-70 mi (60-110 km). Up to 8,000 ft (2,400 m).

Gravel:  4+ hours of riding. 30-50 mi (45-80 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).

Hiking: 4+ hours of hiking. 7-15 mi (11-24 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).

Classic - Discover:

Single occupancy.

Sometimes it’s more convenient and comfortable to have your own room while on vacation. We understand and that’s why we offer a Single Occupancy option. The additional price guarantees a private room all to yourself

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Tour Culture

• Commitments
• key figures
• Sporting Stakes
• "Maillot Jaune" Collection
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Official tour operators

Tour de france approved travel agents.

Live a unique experience thanks to the official Tour de France Tour Operator. Enjoy exclusive trips on the Tour de France route with access to the VIP zones. Get access to the village, meet major riders names, ride on the closed route and cross the finish line. Wear the yellow jersey on the podium like a pro...

Thomson Bike Tours

Thomson Bike Tours has been taking avid cyclists and spectators to the Tour de France since 2003. Our status as the number one Tour de France operator is a testament to our quality. We are privileged with unrivalled access to the biggest race on earth; our guests enjoy VIP access to stage Starts and Finishes, including the Team Paddock and winner’s podium. They experience the race within touching distance from our Private Marquees, strategically situated on the key mountains, with food, drinks, and satellite TV race coverage.  

Best of all, they ride an extensive ride programme on the very same roads as the race. We have ride groups to suit any level of cyclist, with routes form 20km to 130km, fully supported by our team vans, stocked with supplies and manned by professional guides and mechanics.  Our world class support enables dedicated cyclists to focus on the ride and conquer their ambitions. With a 1:3 staff to guest ratio we can promise our guests all the attention they need to triumph in their own accomplishments. 

You don’t have to be a cyclist to enjoy the major Pro Tour races on the calendar. We believe the exhilaration of the greatest cycling experiences should be open to all. Through our e-bike support cyclists of all abilities can now enjoy the thrill of Tour de France in the Alps and the Pyrenees.

Our Spectator trips provide peerless backstage access — the ultimate way to experience the biggest big races. Our team are knowledgeable cycling fans with a thirst for action and undying enthusiasm for the sport. Meet the riders and Tour celebrities in the VIP Departure Village, mingle in the Team Paddock pre race and enjoy unparalleled hospitality viewing of the stage finish. Simply the most fun you can have at a bike race.

Cycling trips:  https://www.thomsonbiketours.com/race-trips/tour-de-france/

Spectator trips:  https://spectator.thomsonbiketours.com/race-trips/tour-de-france/

Custom Getaways

As the longest running Official Tour Operator of the Tour de France (15th year), Custom Getaways offers exceptional experiences to cyclists and spectators alike. We offer the largest selection of cycling and spectator trips; which allows you, our guests, to select your perfect trip. Our status, as a Premium Tour Operator, enables us to provide access to the most coveted stages of the race with unparalleled VIP access. We offer the most flexible cycling options with the highest level of support. You will love our European guides that offer amazing support and connection to the culture.

www.customgetaways.com

Sports Tours International

For 45 years we’ve been delighting sports fans and athletes from every corner of the planet by taking them to some of the most legendary events across the globe including the TCS New York City Marathon, L’Etape du Tour and, of course, the Tour de France.

Based in the UK, we’ve been organising trips to the Tour de France for over 20 years, so you can rest easy knowing we’ve got the experience, know-how and insider info to give you the most authentic experience possible. This includes Official VIP Hospitality on every trip and different itineraries for both spectators and cyclists.

In fact, we pride ourselves on saying “ Our Experience Will Make Yours ” and we mean every word…

But what makes us different ?... Our dedicated team of organisers and overseas representatives are the backbone of everything we do. Their encyclopaedic knowledge of the event and insatiable passion for Le Tour make them the ideal guardians for your journey. Based on our fantastic reviews, our customers couldn’t agree more.

www.sportstoursinternational.co.uk/event-categories/tour-de-france/

Discover France

We are an Official Tour Operator of the Tour de France for more than ten years and so we create unforgettable experiences for all kinds of enthusiasts.

By bike, you can discover the magic of enjoying the real Tour de France stages for a few hours or a few days, you can climb its legendary mountains, and even cross the line a few hours before the professional riders. The podium is ready for you!  

As a spectator, come and take advantage of our VIP access and experience the incredible moments of a TDF moment.

The mix of the festivity and the tension before the departure line or the unforgettable feeling of the finish line.

Now it's your turn to become a legend!

www.discoverfrance.com

Mummu Cycling

At Mummu Cycling, we strive to deliver a Tour de France experience of a lifetime! Let us take you inside the race with 17 time Tour de France contender, multiple Stage winner and Yellow jersey wearer, Stuart O’Grady as your host. Stuart’s extensive wealth of knowledge and expertise on all things cycling, will ensure you know all the race happenings and riders of the peloton to watch out for on tour. Go behind the scenes with Stuart and you won’t be disappointed, potentially meeting and enjoying a photo or two from your favourite riders along the way.

You will ride alongside Stuey ahead of the race on closed roads in the official Tour de France caravan, have VIP access to start and finish zones to get up-close and personal to the teams pre and post stages, enjoy some official Tour de France podium time, as well as sitting back post ride at premium viewing spots throughout the race - champagne and canapé in hand, if you please!

To add to some incredible VIP viewing, you will have the opportunity to ride some of the most iconic Tour de France cols and embrace the suffering that the peloton will be about to endure, all while enjoying tips, advice and many-a race memory from Stuart and our experienced team out on the road.

www.mummucycling.com

Trek Travel

Trek Travel puts you in the middle of the action with our Tour de France cycling vacations. With first-class professional support, a wealth of local knowledge and the best Trek bikes in the industry included in your price, we’ll ride the stages, watch the big attacks, visit the podiums, sip champagne at the finish, and meet the Lidl-Trek Team. Born from the world-renowned Trek Bikes, we are bike-lovers, fellow travelers, hospitality maestros, but most importantly we understand what a cycling vacation of a lifetime means to you.

 https://trektravel.com/trip/tour-de-france-bike-tours/

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6 Great Bike Trips for Tour de France Fans

From big-mileage rides to super-close VIP views of race action, these trips offer huge perks for any Tour fan

Touring the Tour

But the Tour’s popularity, helped by the largely free roadside access to watching it, means planning your own spectating adventure can be a bit daunting. What roads to ride, and when? Where are the best viewing locations, and in which of them do you actually have a chance at carving out space to stand? Nothing puts the damper on a great trip like getting lost on Pyrenean backroads, or stuck in a traffic jam of race fans ten miles from the course and missing a stage. 

     RELATED:  How to Race the Tour de France from Your Couch

That’s what makes cycling tour operators so helpful. These six trip packages offer—and ensure—six remarkably different Tour experiences. Including the vicarious thrill of riding your own Tour de France stage, the chance to tick off the biggest climbs in the Pyrenees , and a relaxed Provençal idyll, you can get as close to (or as far from) the race as you wish.

Note: All prices are calculated per person, double occupancy. As of press time, all trips still have availability, but are booking up. Most trip operators offer non-riding itineraries or options for couples where one does not ride, but inquire for specifics.

The Mileage Bacchanal

Operator: inGamba Trip: Provence and Le Tour with Eros Poli ($8,250) Dates: July 10–16

About the only thing that inGamba (Italian for “in the know”) takes more seriously than food and great hotels is getting tons of time on the bike. That’s the focus for this extravaganza of fantastic restaurants and sumptuous hotels linked by big stretches of riding (with daily post-ride massages to keep you rolling strong).

     RELATED: You Versus a Tour de France Pro

The riding is paired with just enough stage-watching to make it a genuine Tour de France trip. Highlights include exploring twisty ribbons of pavement in the gorges of the Cavalon river, two ascents of the famed Mont Ventoux , and roadside viewing of the TdF’s Ventoux stage as well as the next day’s individual time trial. Your guide? None other than ex-pro Eros Poli, the 1994 Ventoux stage winner.

And don’t worry about bringing a bike. The trip cost includes use of a Pinarello Dogma F8 equipped with SRAM’s new wireless electronic Red eTap group, and full mechanical support.

Info: ingamba.pro

The Replica Stage

Operator: Trek Travel Trip: Etape du Tour ($4,700) Dates : July 6–11

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to ride a full stage of the Tour de France, this is your trip. Trek Travel is an official Tour-recognized outfitter, meaning you get guaranteed entry to l’Etape du Tour, a fully supported gran fondo that traces the 146-km route of Stage 20, which takes in some of the most fearsome passes in the Alps, like the Col de Colombiere, Col de la Ramaz and the Col de Joux Plane.

     RELATED: The Ultimate Spectators' Guide to Watching a Stage Race

Your l’Etape attempt is the culmination of a full week of riding out of Annecy, the gorgeous lakefront town at the foot of the Haute Alpes region. The Tour itself will be in a different region of France during this trip, so your viewing is limited to live TV—but if you want a sense of what it’s like to actually ride the Tour, look no further.

Info: trektravel.com

The Grandest Grand Depart

Operator: Custom Getaways Trip: White Jersey Grand Depart ($3,300) Dates: June 30–July 6

The finish of the Tour de France is a superb event of course, but allow us to make a case for visiting the Grand Depart, the first few stages. On this trip from Tour-accredited operator Custom Getaways, you’ll get an intimate view of the race itself along with beautiful rides along the Normandy coast.

     RELATED: How to Be a Tour de France Superfan

A ticket to the official team presentation? Check. A ride to and tour of the majestic Mont Saint Michel monastery that becomes an island at high tide? Check. An emotional ride to D-Day site Utah Beach, along the race route, on the same day as Stage 1, with VIP viewing of the sprint finish? Triple check.

If you’re a Tour superfan, this trip gets you closer to the race on more occasions than almost any other.

Info:  customgetaways.com

The Alpine Odyssey

Operator: Discover France Trip: Alps Week ($3,300) Dates: July 19–24

     RELATED: 5 Tour de France Documentaries to Watch Right Now

Come prepared to climb hills on this alpine adventure. The Col des Aravis, le Grand Bornand, Colombiere, Joux Plane, Mont Blanc: You’ll tick them all off during the trip's rides, which are deceptively hard for their length (as little as thirty miles). But you’ll also get three chances to watch the race during pivotal stages, with VIP viewing access for two of the ride days. On the Mont Blanc stage, you’ll pedal across the finish line and get a chance to snap a selfie on the podium.

Info: discoverfrance.com

The Pyrenean Challenge

Operator: Thomson Tours  Trip: KOM Challenge – The Pyrenees & Mont Ventoux ($4,500) Dates: July 7–15

After this trip, you’ll practically be ready to guide rides in the Pyrenees yourself. Over nine days, you’ll ride 337 miles and climb 13 of the most renowned passes in this rugged mountain chain bordering Spain, plus the Giant of Provence: Mont Ventoux (optional additions pad the totals to 413 miles and 17 Pyrenean climbs).

You’ll also get the chance to see three Tour stages live, including the exciting summit finish on Mt. Ventoux. Thomson advance teams set up viewing areas with big-screen TVs and live coverage, so you won’t miss a thing.

Every trip includes small ride groups (fewer than ten) with at least one ride leader and sag van per group, so you’re always taken care of. Thomson offers itineraries for non-riding companions as well, with the same VIP viewing opportunities mixed with town visits and cultural activities. Don’t want the hassle of bringing your bike? Rent a Bianchi Infinito CV ($500 additional).

Info: thomsonbiketours.com

The DIY Option

Operator: Randonnée Tours  Trip: Provence Cycling 6 Days (From $1,360) Dates: Custom

Not everyone wants the set schedule of a package tour. And some folks feel comfortable exploring on their own without guides, but still want to ensure quality accomodations and good ride recommendations. This self-guided option from Randonnée is perfect for these fans, with six days of at-your-pace travel with cultural outings (like a tour of the ruins in gorgeous Vaison-la-Romaine) and vineyard tours in the famed Chateauneuf-du-Pape region mixed into rides of varying length and difficulty with extra loop options, all clearly laid out with detailed directions, physical maps and GPS file download options.

     RELATED: The Tour de France in Images

Randonnée owner Robbin McKinney guided trips for a major tour operator for 18 years and is intimately familiar with the area. Ride distances are about 50 km per day, with shorter cutoffs and longer options.

Three accommodation options fit almost any budget and range, from intimate B&Bs like the five-room l’Evêché in Vaison-la-Romaine to luxury hotels like the Romarins, in the heart of picturesque Gordes. (Rooms are not pre-booked, and July is always a busy month for France even without the Tour, so reserving early is recommended.)

Because it’s self-guided, you’ll be on your own for any Tour-watching excursions. Bear in mind that course access can be difficult on race day, and you may need to park and walk or ride from a slight distance. For starts and finishes, make sure to leave plenty of time—arrive several hours early.

Info: randonneetours.com

Joe Lindsey is a longtime freelance journalist who writes about sports and outdoors, health and fitness, and science and tech, especially where the three elements in that Venn diagram overlap.

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The Tour de France with Trek Travel.

There is no sporting event quite like the Tour de France, the legendary cycling race consisting of 21 day-long stages run over 23 days, a competition that crisscrosses the French countryside. The race, which began in 1903 and has been held every year since (apart from the World Wars), takes a different route every year but covers around 2,100 miles and invariably crosses the Pyrenees and the Alps before ending in the ritual ride down the Champs-Élysées in Paris. There are typically 20 to 22 teams of eight riders competing, cheered on by thousands of bystanders who range from the merely enthusiastic to the rabid, perched on the perimeter of the road on virtually every mile of the race. It is such a massive sporting event and celebration in France that the US equivalent would have to be rolling the Super Bowl, the World Series and the Stanley Cup together to match the excitement. The 107th Edition of the Tour de France will take place from June 27 - July 19, 2020.

Tour de France with Trek Travel.

Now Trek Travel, a cycling vacation company offering cycling tours around the globe, is the Official Tour Operator for the tour and has come out with six new 2020 Tour de France Bike Tours as well as an exclusive finish line viewing party. The company promises behind-the-scenes access to the Trek-Segafredo team along with VIP race access at key stages throughout the tour, including the Grand Depart in Nice, the climbs of Col de la Madeleine, Col des Aravis, Col des Glières and the finishes on the Col de la Loze, La Roche sur Foron and the Paris finale.

“We have been taking our guests to the heart of the world’s premier cycling event for the past 17 years,” says Trek Travel President Tania Burke. “We are especially excited to offer access to the Trek-Segafredo team on two of our trips. Having access to the top cyclists in the world during the tour is certainly a once in a lifetime opportunity.” 

Tour de France with Trek Travel

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Trek Travel’s seven Tour de France experiences include:

Grand Depart Ultimate 

Guests will witness the 2020 Tour de France Grand Depart in Nice, France, the first time in that city since 1981. It includes a reception with the Trek-Segafredo Team, the opportunity to climb Mont Ventoux and other mountain routes a few days before the Tour, with an official race escort car. June 24 -29, 2020, priced from $7,599 per person.

 Alps to Paris Ultimate 

This trip celebrates the final week of the 2020 Tour de France. Guests will bike Col de la Madeline and other historic Tour climbs, have a Q&A session with the Trek-Segafredo Team, and a Tour Finale champagne reception and VIP viewing in Paris. July 14 – 20, 2020, priced from $9,299 per person.

The ride down the Champs Élysées at the conclusion of the Tour de France.

VIP Race Access

These trips celebrate Week 2 or 3 of the 2020 Tour de France. Guests will enjoy VIP access to an open-top bus at the finish of Stages 17 & 18. They will also cycle some of the same mountain routes as the pros and enjoy VIP seating for the Paris Finale. Epic Climbs VIP, July 8-17, 2020; Alps to Paris VIP, July 14 – 20, 2020; Alpe d’Huez to Paris VIP, July 14- 20, 2020 are priced from $7,299 - $8,999 per person.

Etape du Tour 

Trek Travel President Tania Burke and Trek Bikes President John Burke will join guests to cycle Stage 2 of the actual Tour de France on a day when the pros rest, traveling a loop of 110 miles from and back to Nice. June 30 – July 6, 2020, priced from $5,799 per person.

Paris Viewing Event 

Trek Travel's exclusive race viewing of the triumphant finale in Paris on July 19, 2020, when guests are stationed atop the Automobile Club de France overlooking the Champs Élysées. Champagne and French hors d'oeuvres will be on offer as they watch the leaders cross the finish line. Priced from $525 per person.

 Contact   Trek Travel for more details.

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French Alps cycle tours: our pick of the best Alps bike tours

Located in southeastern France, the French Alps are the perfect destination for keen road cyclists looking for a challenge.

This mountainous region features some tough climbs, such as the famous Alpe d’Huez and it’s also the location of several cyclo-sportives for those who enjoy more competitive cycling.

While some are happy to plan their own trip to the Alps (perhaps using our overview of the Alps or our article on where to stay on Alps cycling holidays !), others are looking for an Alps cycle tour. They want the extra support of having someone on the ground to provide assistance if things go wrong, book accommodation and tailor routes.

In this article, we share some of the things to think about before booking a cycling tour in the French Alps. We’ve also picked a tour from the bike tour operators we’d be happy to travel with and shared the details.

Hopefully it gives you an idea of the kind of Alps tours that are out there.

We hope it’s useful; let us know in the comments below!

This article is based on the information on each operator’s website. We’ve done our best to ensure our summary is accurate, but please double-check everything with the operator since the information on their website could be out of date or could have changed since we wrote the article. It’s even conceivable (heaven forbid!) that we may have made a mistake.

The prices usually assume two people occupying a room. If you want single occupancy, expect to pay more. Also carefully check the trip inclusions – we’ve just summarised the situation below and the inclusions may well vary for each trip.

In the interests of transparency, just to let you know that we’ve worked with Alpine Cols , Geneva Cycling , Vélorizons ,  VeloGuide  and Sports Tours International on creating other articles for this site. Want to know which other cycling tour operators we worked with in 2022? Read this.

DIY or self-guided versus guided Alps cycle tours

There are lots of reasons you might be looking for some support with your cycling holiday in the Alps. If you’re new to cycling in high mountains, you might want the comfort of knowing someone’s there if the weather gets nasty, your bike breaks or you’re not quite as fit as you thought! Alternatively, you might be time poor and want someone to take the hassle out of booking accommodation, picking the route and (especially if you want to complete a point to point journey), transferring your baggage.

It’s also worth bearing in mind that cycling in high mountains is a bit different to cycling elsewhere. There aren’t as many people around as there are in other parts of the world. Towns and villages are often few and far between, and those there are may not have a shop or restaurant open when you need it. If you’re cycling alone, a guided tour gives support to cover these kinds of issues, but also camaraderie.

For more information on the different kinds of cycling trips (guided, self-guided, fixed base etc), read this article .

For questions to ask before booking a tour, read our tips here .

Want more general info on cycling the French Alps? Don’t miss our overview of the Alps , as well as our guide to the  Alpe d’Huez region  and Col d’Iseran region .

What kind of Alps cycling tour do you want?

Before you delve into the detail of which tour operator to use, make sure you’re clear on the type of tour you’re looking for.

Yes, it’s a road cycling trip to the Alps, but are there particular climbs you want to conquer? Are you looking to base yourself in one area and tick off the classics or do you want to go to an area that’s a bit less famous? (You’ll find both options within our selection here). And when it comes to cycling holidays, Alps itineraries are rarely easy, but think about whether you want a moderate or a challenging route too.

Alternatively, are you looking for support to complete a particular event or have you got the urge to do a point to point cycle trip through the Alps?

How we picked these Alps bike tours

In deciding which tours to include, we’ve based our suggestions on companies that have been recommended to us over the years. We’ve tried to include a mix of companies, from large international outfits to smaller one-man band operations.

The things they’ve all got in common is that they’re all tours we ourselves would like to go on.

1. Alpe d’Huez cycling tours (and classic climbs of the Alps)

These cycling tours are aimed at those wanting to ride Alpe d’Huez and the classic Alpine climbs.

Bike Weekender

Bike Weekender is a small company made up of five expert cycling guides who offer guided and self-guided cycling tours from their base in the French Alps. With over 15 years’ experience in cycling in the Alps, they specialise in 4-day weekend cycling breaks.

The Northern Alps cycling tours include famous climbs such as the Col des Aravis, Col de la Colombiere and Col de Croix Fry. Then, it’s on to the shores of beautiful Lake Annecy with a climb up Semnoz to appreciate the stunning Alpine scenery.

• Tour: Northern Alps
• Starts: Aravis region
• Cost:   TBC for 2023. 2022 prices were £445 per person for self-guided tours or £545 per person for guided tours
• Includes: 4 nights’ half-board accommodation, transfers from Geneva airport. Guided tours also include a support vehicle. Self-guided tours include directions.
• Departure dates: Multiple dates between June and September 2023.
• Group size: No minimum
• Notes: For groups of six or more, breaks can be tailored to your group’s requirements. 

We ran a Q&A with Bike Weekender – you can find out more about them and their favourite Alpine routes,  here .

La Vie en Velo

La Vie en Velo is different to most cycling companies in that it is a one-man operation run by host Angus Parker. Angus has been organising group holidays to France for over 20 years and now specialises in french cycling tours, including cycling holidays in the French Alps. He’s a friendly guy who’s ready and able to transport cyclists and their bikes all the way from the UK and back in his mini-bus and custom-fitted box trailer.

La Vie en Velo offers a 4-day weekend Alps cycling holiday. Routes can be tailored to suit the group but typically include Alpe d’Huez and the iconic Col de Galiber.

• Tour: The Alps
• Starts: Tarentaise valley
• Cost: from £695 per person
• Includes: 3 nights’ half-board accommodation, bike and bag transfer from the UK and back, transfers from Lyon airport, expert guide
• Departure dates: The season runs between late May and September 2023
• Group size : 5 to 8
• Notes: Angus is a firm believer that bikes shouldn’t fly and will collect them from the UK for you the day before you fly.

Alpine Cols

Alpine Cols typically offer two cycling trips and three training camps per year. In 2023, the two cycling trips are in Corsica and the training camps are in Tenerife and the Alps.

The Alps cycle trips are designed to help you improve your mountain-cycling skills. Alpine Cols say that past clients have seen big gains in their performance at events like the Marmotte, the Etape du Tour and the Haute Route (check out the testimonials towards the bottom of this page ).

Alpine Cols pride themselves on bringing together a community of friendly, like-minded, keen amateur cyclists, typically aged 45-65, who want to improve their performance, but also to live well. Expect high quality, personal service both on and off the road.

• Tour: Etape du Tour coaching camp
• Starts: Geneva and transfers to La Clusaz
• Cost: €2,690 based on two people sharing
• Includes: Run on an all-inclusive basis with the exception of drinks at the hotels/café stops. Coach to rider ratio is 1:5 or better. Includes rides, workshops and one to one coaching sessions. Bike hire and massage are also available as options.
• Departure dates: 21 May 2023
• Group size: Maximum of 10
• Notes: Designed to help riders training for the Etape du Tour. Focused on improving skills and become stronger cyclists. Private tours are available and can be tailored to your requirements.

Go to Alpine Cols’ website, here.

Or read more about them in this article with them about their approach to coaching and training.

2. Sportive tours in the Alps

This kind of cycling tour focuses on completing a specific sportive. The packages tend to include entry into the relevant Alpine sportive, as well as everything you need around that, from accommodation to transfers.

Sports Tours International

Established for 50 years, Sport Tours International is one of the UK’s largest sports travel companies. They take participants and spectators to events all over the world including professional and amateur cycling events, sportives, marathons and triathlons.

One such event Sports Tours runs trips to is La Marmotte , an annual one-day cyclo-sportive event in France. The event is named after the ‘marmot’, a type of ground squirrel which inhabits the slopes of the final climb to the finish in Alpe d’Huez.

Sports Tours are also well known for their organised tours to the Tour de France, where they’re one of only a few Premium Operators. In this article you can find out what that means. They also run Spring Classics cycle tours.

• Tour: La Marmotte
• Starts: Alpe d’Huez
• Cost: from £439 per person
• Includes: 3/4 nights’ bed and breakfast accommodation, race entry, cycling jersey, race briefing, mechanical support, bag transfers
• Departure dates: 22nd or 23rd June 2023
• Group size: 7,000 riders
• Notes: there’s a choice of hotels and extras such as airport transfers, bike transport or bike rental can be arranged. They also offer tours to the Etape , Maratona , Mallorca 312 and many other events

Haute Route

Haute Route offers 3- and 7-day cycling events across the world. Aimed at amateur road cyclists, Haute Route events are organised to deliver the experience of a professional road race.

The Alps 2023 sportive is the flagship event of the Haute Route cycling series. The route features famous Tour de France climbs including six cols that top out at over 2,000 metres above sea level. The event starts in Megève and finishes in Nice – a reversal of the 2022 route.

• Tour: Alps 2023
• Starts: Megève
• Cost: from €1,999 per person
• Includes: medical and mechanical support vehicles, welcome dinner, daily lunch, daily massage, laundry, luggage transfers, rider briefings.
• Departure dates: 20 August 2023
• Notes: you can customise your experience by adding accommodation, airport transfers and bike rental.

You can find more of our favourite European sportives in our pick of the best 2023 sportive challenges, here .

3. Point-to-point cycling across the Alps

A point-to-point tour is a great way to spend your French Alps cycling holiday, as it allows you to cover a lot of ground and experience a range of destinations while cycling the French Alps.

Vélorizons is a French-based cycling tour business, run by a small team of passionate cyclists that know France like the back of their hand. They offer everything from three day family cycling trips to multi week traverses of the Alps and Pyrenees. Their UK brand is called France Bike Trips but, to all intents and purposes, their trips are identical.

We worked with Vélorizons on an article about their Route des Grandes Alpes trip which feels like an excellent fit for this article.

• Tour: Route des Grandes Alpes (Lake Geneva to Côte d’Azur)
• Starts: Lake Geneva
• Cost: from €1,285 per person
• Includes: 7 nights accommodation in 2 and 3 star hotels, breakfasts, picnic lunches, dinners, support vehicle, GPS files, daily luggage transfers
• Departure dates: 10 June 2023
• Group size: usually a minimum of 5
• Notes: full information in this article .

Trek Travel

Trek Travel is a large US-based company offering all kinds of cycling holidays in iconic destinations across the globe.

Their ‘Tour Cycling Vacation’ follows the most famous climbs of the Tour de France on a 9-day adventure through the French Alps and Pyrenees. The French Alps cycling tours start in Lourdes, close to the border with Spain, and finishes with a climb up Alpe d’Huez. Along the route you’ll experience famous climbs such as Mont Ventoux, the Col du Lautaret and the scenic Col de Suzette loop.

• Tour: The Tour Cycling Vacation
• Starts: Lourdes
• Cost: From $6,199 per person
• Includes: 8 nights’ accommodation, experienced guides, support vehicle, daily breakfast, 4 lunches, 4 dinners, 2 social hours of drinks and hors d’oevres, bike hire, cycling jersey, day bag and water bottles to keep, luggage transfers, entrance fees for all activities
• Departure dates: 18 June, 30 June, and 5 August 2023
• Group size: up to 20 with two guides. The average group size is 12.
• Notes: each day there are three route options for cyclists of different abilities.

Trek Travel feature in our list of luxury cycling holiday operators.

DuVine is an award-winning international cycling and adventure company with a focus on the local history, culture and gastronomy of destinations across the world.

The ‘Alps Journey Bike Tour’ promises an epic week of adventure as you ride through the heart of the French Alps from Geneva to Nice. You’ll conquer the toughest climbs in the region on this tour of the Alps, including Alpe d’Huez, Col du Galibier, Col de la Bonette and Col d’Izoard. Along the way, sampling Alpine fare such as fondues, raclette cheese and fresh Alpine lake fish, as well as local drinks like Pinot Noir from Savoie and French craft beers.

• Tour: Alps Journey Bike Tour
• Cost: from: $4,995 per person
• Includes: 6 nights’ accommodation, luggage transfers, daily breakfast, daily lunch, 5 dinners with wine and beer, bike hire, GPS, cycling jersey, bag and water bottle to keep, expert guide, support vehicle, laundry, wine tastings, entrance to attractions and activities
• Departure dates: The tour is for private groups only so check with the tour operator for dates
• Group size: up to 14

Du Vine feature in our list of luxury cycling holiday operators.

4. On demand guiding in the Alps

If you haven’t heard of on demand guiding before, it is simply the act of picking and choosing your own guide and/or routes for your destination. Rather than booking a full on “cycling trip” you can just book a ride or several rides over the space of your trip. It’s great for trips where maybe you’re in a new place and find some time for some cycling, but don’t want to commit to a full tour, or just want a quick guide around some of the best cycling areas.

If you want your Alps holidays to be a little more free-form, or the cycle vacations we’ve listed above don’t quite meet your requirements, these are a good option to explore.

Since 2017, VeloGuide have been developing their business as a place where cyclists can go to get local knowledge and pay a guide for a ride without the extra costs tours can incur.

The company works by matching riders to local guides based on their destinations. You can then pay to go on tours organised by the guides, and each guide can be given a review so you can be sure you’ll enjoy the ride.

It’s turned out to be quite popular not just among amateurs, but there are plenty of former pro guides too, including Phil Gaimon, Bobby Julich, and George Hincapie to name a few.

The website is simple to use and you can even book bike hire, making it a one stop shop for all your cycling tour needs for your next trip. They have plenty of guides in different areas of the French Alps and the number of guides working with VeloGuide is growing all the time.

Find out more here.

What next?!

We’d love to know what you think of our selection. Have you travelled with any of these operators? What was your experience? Let us know in the comments below!

We’ve got loads of in-depth articles on riding in the Alps, from the in-depth guides to the Alpe d’Huez and Col d’Iseran regions that we mentioned above, to route guides in each of these areas and tips for cycling in the French Alps .

You might also like our guides to cycling events such as the Etape , Marmotte and Col de la Loze sportive .

As well as our articles on where to stay in Alpe d’Huez and France more generally.

Head over to our France cycling destinations page for more inspiration!

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10 Best Treks in France

Quick navigation, trekking in france.

• Tour du Mont Blanc
• GR 10: French Pyrenees
• GR 49 From Saint-Raphael to Rougon
• GR 21 Littoral de Normandie
• GR 70 Chemin de Stevenson
• GR 20 Corsica
• Walker’s Haute Route
• GR 57 Tour du Mont Thabor
• Mare a Mare Sud

Best Treks in the World

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France ranks at the top of the list of the most-visited countries in the world—and for good reason. Not only do travellers flock here for wine, culture, and architectural wonders lining cobblestone streets, they come here to dip into nature. Thanks to the Alps lining its backdrop, France boasts some of the most memorable hiking adventures in the world! Want to embark on a long-distance walk and explore another side of this beloved country? Sift through the ten best treks in France below and find an adventure that suits your walking style.

Find a range of long-distance walking adventures carved all over France. The most popular alpine trekking hub is Chamonix, a platform for the Tour du Mont Blanc and the Walker’s Haute Route. Not into hiking mountain slopes? Head to Normandy to walk the GR 21, an otherworldly coastal adventure with limestone cliffs and salted sea air. When researching your ideal walking route in France, you’ll also discover routes covering various distances. For example, anyone seeking the ultimate long-distance exploration will want to look into the GR 10. There are dozens of incredible tours in France you can choose from, but this article allows you to sift through the ten best treks in France below and find an adventure that suits your walking style.

Find your ideal trekking route below, or explore a range of trekking tours in France . Below are our Top 10 Treks in France!

1. Tour du Mont Blanc

It would be strange to kick off the ten best treks in France with any hike other than the incredible Tour du Mont Blanc. Marvel at the European Alps as you walk through three countries flanking the towering Mont Blanc Massif. Pass through France, Italy, and Switzerland for the ultimate border-hopping hiking experience! Most trekkers aim to traverse 15.0 km a day, but don’t worry; the mesmerizing peaks, vibrant meadows, and hanging glaciers will keep you entertained. Explore all the different options for a guided or self-guided Tour du Mont Blanc . Location: Starts and ends in Les Houches Distance: 170.0 km Time: 8-11 days When to do: June-September

2. GR 10: French Pyrenees

Traverse the rugged, uninterrupted Pyrenees, a lofty mountain range dividing France and Spain. The GR 10 traverses the French Pyrnees, connecting the Atlantic and Mediterranean coast. Start your route exploring lush landscapes, followed by a more rugged middle section. Then, revel in the blue skies mirroring the Mediterranean hues as you approach the end. Most people walk from Hendaye, the Atlantic side, towards the Mediterranean, Banyuls. Find your perfect vacation in one of these Tours in the French Pyrenees . Location: Hendaye to Banyuls-sur-Mer Distance: 1,100.0 km Time: 45-60 days When to do: July-September

3. GR 49 From Saint-Raphael to Rougon

Don’t let the 100.0 km distance fool you into thinking this long-distance hike will be a simple walk in the park! The GR49 is one of the more challenging adventures on this list due to its steep gradient. En route, discover epic natural scenery, such as the Saint-Cassien Lake in the Var and Verdon Regional Natural Park. Most hikers generally complete this route in six stages! Want to find your next vacation on a trip like this one, then have a look at walking vacations in Southern France . Location: Saint-Raphael to Rougon Distance: 100.0 km Time: 6 days When to do: April-October

4. GR 21 Littoral de Normandie

Discover the scenic white cliffs jetting over the sea along the fantasy-like beaches of Normandy on GR 21. Fun fact: in 2019, the French voted this long-distance route as the best in France! Perhaps the blend of a more accessible hiking path with the unique beachfront scenery towering along the Alabaster Coast skyrocketed this trek to first place.

The limestone cliffs beautifully complement the blue sea, grey pebble beaches, and lush greenery, painting this tremendous route! Want to go on a holiday in Northern France? Explore other stunning adventure tours in Northern and Central France and start planning your next vacation today! Location: Le Havre to Le Treport Distance: 187.0 km Time: 12 days When to do: April to October

5. GR 70 Chemin de Stevenson

Step into the pages of a fairytale on the romantic GR 70: Chemin de Stevenson. In 1878, Robert Louis Stevenson walked through Cévennes with Modestine, his donkey. He weaved through farmland, forests, valleys, and Mont Lozere. This charming trekking journey invites you to fall in love with nature and simpler pleasures! Spend your evenings basking in golden beams, followed by quiet hours in your tent or guesthouse in a quaint, rural setting.  Maybe one of these walking tours in Southern France are perfect for your next walking holiday. Location: Le Puy-en-Velay (Haute-Loire) to Ales (Gard) Distance: 268.0 km Time: 12-15 days When to do: May to October

6. GR 20 Corsica

Craving a strenuous long-distance hiking experience? The GR20 in Corsica will suck the breath right out of your lungs! Some dub this 180.0 km adventure the most challenging trail in Europe, making it inevitable to train before setting foot on the path. Expect steep ascents over several kilometres and some technical terrain underfoot. Thankfully, the blood, sweat, and tears will fade once panoramic sea views spill into your sightline. You'll also find some reprieve in hidden lakes tucked below mountain slopes! Explore Corsica for your next vacation on one of these incredible trekking tours in Corsica . Location: Calenzana to Conca Distance: 180.0 km Time: 14 days When to do: June to September

The GR51 travels away from the shimmering Mediterranean blues, carving through a more calm inland journey. Hikers should mentally prepare for the trail to launch into an ascent at the beginning. However, at the top, your lungs will relax as you admire the surrounding views for most of the journey (once in a while, you will dip back into the valley before returning up). The GR51 is an excellent way to ditch the tourists flocking to the area in the summer for a more secluded experience! This is one of a number of incredible tours in Southern France . Location: Menton to Marseille Distance: Just over 500.0 km Time: 30-35 days When to do: April to June or September

8. Walker’s Haute Route

The Walker’s Haute Route sets out from Chamonix, France, but spends much time traversing through Switzerland, which means elevated prices. Therefore, it’s best to budget beforehand, as the daily costs might drain your wallet. If you’re short on time or want to skip some sections, you can always walk alternative routes or take public transport. Expect wild scenery replete with soaring peaks and sloping valleys. This is a wonderful walking tour, if you want to explore similar tours check out trekking tours in the French Alps , or trekking tours in Switzerland . Location: Chamonix, France, to Zermatt, Switzerland Distance: 213.0 km Time: 10 to 12 days When to do: Mid-July to mid-September

9. GR 57 Tour du Mont Thabor

Only have a couple of days to spare? Consider tackling the GR 57 Tour du Mont Thabor, a challenging route that cuts through a more hidden, lesser-known area of the French Alps. The Tour du Mont Thabor attracts nature lovers seeking a more remote, less crowded hiking experience. You won’t find ski slopes or crowded tourist spots along this unspoiled route! Find your next vacation and check out other incredible tours in the French Alps . Location: Starts and ends in Nevache Distance: 85.0 km Time: 5 days When to do: June to October

10. Mare a Mare Sud

Enjoy a taste of the sea and mountains on the Mare a Mare Sud long-distance walk. Most walkers complete the Mare a Mare Sud in five days, encountering quaint villages, streams, sea views, and bushland. You will meet some narrow, mountainous sections with slippery gravel underfoot, but, for the most part, the Mare a Mare Sud is a more chilled-out long-distance walk compared to most others on this list. Corsica is such a special destination, if you thinking of a trip, check out these magical tours in Corsica . Location: Porto-Vecchio to Propriano (Corsica) Distance: 77.0 km Time: 5 days When to do: April to October

Looking to explore some of the World’s best treks outside of France? Check out the rest of the articles in our Best Treks series, where we highlight all of the best treks around the world to help you plan your upcoming long-distance adventures!

• 8 Best Multi Day Hikes in Iceland
• 10 Best Multi Day Hikes in Canada
• 10 Best Long Distance Hikes in the United States
• 10 Greatest Multi Day Hikes in Europe
• Africa's Best Treks
• 10 Best Long Distance Walks in the UK
• 10 Amazing Treks in Asia
• Australia’s Greatest Thru-Hikes
• 10 Spectacular Long Distance Hikes in New Zealand
• 10 Best Pilgrimage Routes
• 10 Best Treks in the Mediterranean
• 8 Best Treks in Italy

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The 6 Best Cycling Tours in Europe

Home of the Tour de France and the bicycle, the continent is best explored on two wheels

Heading out the door? Read this article on the Outside app available now on iOS devices for members! >","name":"in-content-cta","type":"link"}}'>Download the app .

Europe is the birthplace of the bicycle, though exactly where it was first invented is up for debate (the French contend the inventor was a Frenchman, the English say he was one of theirs, and the Scots throw in a claim, too). Cycling culture runs deep in Europe, making it one of the best destinations for a two-wheeled tour. The locals will not only respect you on the road, they’ll also embrace you in the pub, taverna, or café for taking the time to explore their countries in such a civilized manner.

The trips listed below are fully supported, meaning they include vehicles en route to pick you up if you need help and mechanics to fix your bike if it breaks. The tour guides have extensive knowledge of the area and can, if necessary, offer encouragement during a long day. Here are six trips to put on your calendar.

The Napoleon Expedition 

Paris to Moscow: Ride & Seek Bicycle Adventures

This epic 45-day, 2,736-mile route from Ride & Seek Bicycle Adventures roughly traces Napoleon’s 1812 Russian Campaign. It begins in Paris with a spin down the Champs-Élysées, followed by aperitifs under the shadow of the Arc de Triomphe before departing for Germany, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, and Russia—through rolling vineyards, deep forests, medieval villages, and historic cities. As you enter Moscow on the last day, know that you’re guaranteed a much warmer welcome than the diminutive Corsican received when he triumphantly ended his march in Red Square. Note: If 45 days are more than you can commit to, the tour is composed of six one-week stages, so you can do as many (or as few) as you like.

Details: $14,745 for entire tour, $2,605 for each stage; prices based on double occupancy. Fully supported/guided. Includes breakfasts, some lunches, and most dinners.

l’Etape du Tour

France: Trek Travel

Each year since 1993, more than 10,000 cyclists have registered for l’Etape du Tour, a one-day event that allows amateurs to ride one of the mountain stages of that year’s Tour de France while the pros have a rest day. On this five- or seven-day guided tour from Trek Travel , each day features routes that were stages in previous Tours, culminating in a guaranteed spot in l’Etape du Tour, which in 2015 will be a 87-mile day climbing Col de Chaussy, Col de la Croix de Fer, Col du Mollard, and a summit finish at La Toussuire. This year, Trek team rider and 2010 Tour de France winner Andy Schleck will ride along with guests for the entire week.

Details: $4,699 for seven days, $4,199 for five days per person; prices based on double occupancy. Fully supported/guided. Includes breakfasts, some lunches, and most dinners.

Land’s End to John O’Groats 

United Kingdom: Peak Tours

Starting from the very southwest tip of England and ending almost 1,000 miles away in the northeast reaches of Scotland, this 14-day ride from  Peak Tours  rolls through patchwork-quilt farmlands in the south, craggy mountains and pristine lakes of the Lake District, and the barren moors of northern Scotland. Whenever possible, the route avoids main roads in favor of lovely flowered country lanes and quiet back roads that lead to out-of-the-way villages and centuries-old inns.

Details:  $2,400 to $3,486, depending on choice of accommodations. Fully supported. Includes all breakfasts and lunches; dinners are on your own.

The Danube 

Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary:  Experience Plus

There’s a good reason the Danube River is one of the most popular rides in Europe: Almost anyone can do it. There are no hills to speak of, and most of the riding is on a network of paved paths that follow the river as it passes through the Eastern European countryside and two of Europe’s most storied capitals, Vienna and Budapest (there’s a rest day in Vienna). This 13-day, 526-mile ride (named by National Geographic Traveler as one of the “50 Tours of a Lifetime”) from Experience Plus  begins in Germany and winds past impressive Bavarian monasteries, verdant Austrian vineyards, and pristine Hungarian villages before ending in the imperial gem that is Budapest.

Details:  $5,500. Fully supported/guided. Includes use of a 27- to 30-gear titanium bike or an aluminum tandem with e-bike option, all breakfasts, and half of your dinners.

Sacred Sites of Greece 

Peloponnese: Cycle Greece

Cycle Greece ’s eight-day tour (one of Bicycling magazine’s “best tours” in 2009) travels through arguably the most beautiful part of mainland Greece and offers both long (358 miles) and short (237 miles) options. Stretches in the saddle are broken up by stops at some of the Greek’s most famous sites, including the Olympic grounds where the first games commenced in 796 B.C. Also included are tours of Epidavros, the most famous healing center in the classical world, and the ancient city of Mycenae.

Details: $2,340, based on double occupancy. Fully supported/guided. Includes use of a Specialized 27-gear road bike, entrance fees and private tours of several sites, and all dinners (with house wine).

Dalmation Coast 

Croatia:  Backroads

“The Mediterranean as It Once Was” has been Croatia’s tagline for years. The country touts its beautiful beaches, lavender and olive groves, and mashup of Roman, Byzantine, French, Ottoman, and Slavic architecture. Backroads ’ six-day tour island hops from Brac to Hvar (the Cannes of Croatia) to Korcula. The leisurely length (106- or 192-mile options) means there’s plenty of time at the end of the day for a dip in the gorgeous blue-green sea. The final day is spent in historic Dubrovnik, the “Pearl of the Adriatic.”

Details: $3,998 to $4,598, depending on dates; based on double occupancy. Fully supported/guided. Includes all meals except two lunches and one dinner.

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Trek Travel Bike Tours

September 30, 2016 By gbd-admin 23 comments

A relative newcomer to the industry (they started business in 2001), Trek Travel does everything with an utmost level of expertise. In many ways it is as if they have analyzed the best aspects of the top companies, and incorporated these into their tours. The guides are top notch, the two levels of pricing accommodate a variety of budgets, and the large selection of tours cover a wide range of rider levels.

As they are the only operator owned by a bike company, you can always be assured that the bikes are top notch and in perfect condition. Companions – Hey, even if he says "It's Not About the Bike", this is the company that makes Lance's ride, so bikes and gear are front and center here. In other word, don't expect to see lots of folks in the SAG van. This is a pretty fit crowd. However, they do provide a large range of ride types, some as short as 30 miles a day (and some that include such challenges as Mt. Ventoux), so the large variety of rides, as well as price levels, lead to a wide variety of clients.

• Operator Type : Full-Service Operator
• Website : http://www.trektravel.com/promotion/biketourreviews/
• Price Tier : $$$
• Avg Price Per Day : $465-595
• Services : Bike Provided, SAG Van, Tour Guide
• Country : Austria, Chile, Costa Rica, Croatia, Czech Republic, Ecuador, France, Ireland, Italy, Norway, Peru, Portugal, Scotland, Spain, United States

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I would not recommend doing any business with this company. Their bikes are totally worn out. We trusted a friend’s recommendation and it turned out that was a bad decision. They are selling used bikes at thousands dollars, If I am paying over 2K for a used bike, I expect it is in a fair condition. The truth is that their checklist was not accurate and dishonest. For example, the crank teeth are extremely worn and the di2 charging and mounting is missing. This is just wrong. If they are selling used bike like dumping garbage but still make you to pay thousands of dollars, this is absolutely not the company you should trust. I paid for my mistake and I am hoping that my stupidity can be a warning for you. A company without integrity, think twice!

First time Trek Travel tour. Did the Portugal trip out of Vila Viscosa, mid-November. Everything was great. Bike provided was exceptional, guides were friendly & personable as well as knowledgeable about the area, top notch accommodations, great food @ hotel and at restaurants. Plenty of snacks and support along the bike routes. Word to the wise: you should be in good shape. Our trip was labeled “recreational.” Participants were fit and didn’t dilly-dally. That said, you can opt for an electric bike, if need be. Side tours were wonderful too (vineyard, palace & museum on rain day, guided tour of local village). Terrific followup from Corporate HQ on any questions or concerns. Would recommend and would do a TrekTour again.

My parents booked a Trek trip in Italy this spring. We’re very disappointed that with the coronavirus escalating in Italy, we cannot attend. When we called Trek to cancel, we were surprised to learn that there were no plans to cancel the trip and we couldn’t cancel without losing a significant amount of money. My parents are rightfully concerned with Trek’s disregard for our health and safety. The situation continues to evolve, but as of today, Italy is under a country wide quarantine, travel is restricted by both Italy and the United States and the spread or the virus and death toll show no signs of slowing. Trek offered an option where we could rebook in another location, but we cannot entrust our wellbeing in any location to a company who is encouraging us to risk our health and safety, as well as the health and safety of our communities, by traveling to Italy. Luckily, the airlines offered a refund on our travel, prioritizing human life over profit – we encourage Trek to do the same.

We paid for a self-guided tour this May in the Provence region of France. While we loved the trip, Trek Travel did little to provide any support. They charged us $7000, and basically they gave us some bikes and routes and let us go. For the money we were charged we were expecting a lot more from the company. Nice bikes, but talking to other people on other tours, including the guided Trek tours, we feel we were taken advantage of. We do not recommend Trek Travel.

Did the Tour de France Team Access trip, Trek’s premiere offering. Much was promised and the price was among the highest in the industry. Accommodations, food, Radio Shack team access were great. Unfortunately, the trip was understaffed; 3 guides, 1 van for 24 people. There was little ‘on the road’ support. Two guides were rookies to the trip and the company. Tour viewing was far less than promised.

Excellent support, fun guides, and unbelievable viewing locations for the Tour de France.

I took the Trek Travel economy tour of Bryce and Zion national parks in fall 2005. The bikes were exceptional (as you would expect of Trek); the guides friendly and hard-working; and the other riders fairly strong and very social, ranging from 25 to 55, average age about 40. The accommodations were excellent, some top notch restaurants included with tour; and the routes we rode were challenging with amazing scenery.

What you would expect….great rides and route finding, perfect bikes, fantastic accomodation and knowledgeable and personable guides who we now call our friends. Plus TREK TRAVEL organized local and unique cultural experiences for our group which were unexpected and fantastic (eg. local vineyards, a catalonian historian, etc, etc.)

Tour de France viewing at its best. The food in France not very good, as always. Somehow the Pizzas were great. Great scenery The Guides are A+.

This is the A+ way to go! Trek travel is quality with real human excellence. The don’t aim to please, they simply do. The bikes are excellent, but that wouldn’t matter if they weren’t so truly superior in choosing and retaining the best guides in the world! This is a bike tour with a never ending grin! Thanks Trek Travel!

I would like to say the trip we had this fall with Trek was outstanding, the accomodation,food, attention to detail, and most importantly the daily routes they had designed for us were all incredible. The guides made the extra effort to ensure we all had a great time, and also ensured that everyone was looked after as far as personal requests, special energy drinks,foods,cultural side trips, and route changes to suite exploring and shopping needs. I have had several trips cycling in different regions of Europe, private trips, self guided, and group trips, I have always had the best experience with Trek. We have already booked our next trip with them for this summer. We are looking forward to another “trip of a liftime” with the great folks at Trek.

My wife and I have been on 3 Trek Travel trips to Europe. We highly recommend the trips. The guides worked very hard and provided the best advice, assistance and friendship throughout the trips. Bikes were top quality. Rider level was above average but not competitive. Accommodations and food were very good. Can’t wait to go again. Provence was extra special.

I have been going to Europe for 35 years. I’ve acquired a “I’ve seen it all” mentality, a shame really, but I’ve been to Italy 30 times and thought I had “been there done that.” I never expected the amazing trip and new experiences I had with Trek Travel to Puglia. It was truly one of my greatest experiences in Italy.

We are not “tour” people, and usually enjoy making our own way with a map and a good guide book. This trip was one of the most relaxing vacations I have ever had – great exercise, great food, great accommodations, great company and we were completely pampered.

This trip was better than anticipated — and I had high expectations based on previous participants’ reviews! I am now convinced that this is THE way to see a new country and experience its culture; by the sights, sounds, and smells only obtainable by cycling through its countryside. The support of the Trek Travel guides made it exceptionally easy and enjoyable. A perfect way to spend our 15-year wedding anniversary!

Trek is the best travel group especially for the Tour de France where access and logistics are so critical to a wonderful experience.

This was yet another outstanding Trek Travel adventure. From the equipment to the routes and the overall expertise of the guides, it is hard to imagine that any tour group could do it better. This was our third trip with Trek Travel and we look forward to many, many more.

One of the wonderful features about Trek is that high-quality, well-equipped bikes fit to the rider’s specifications are provided, saving the traveler time, expense and worry.

Everything planned exceptionally – but adjustable as necessary.

This was our first Trek Travel trip. We knew we would enjoy it since we love to ride bikes. We never expected to walk away feeling that we just experienced the best vacation we have ever had. This from two people who have traveled every Continent but Australia and have had very memorable experiences. On the flight home we were already planning our trip for next year. We are hooked!

One of the things I really liked was that I didn’t have to transport my own bike to CA, and that the Domane provided was a very good, high-end road bike. I also loved the chance to ride the Di2 (I was sold on it in the first three miles) and it was a let-down to return home to a mechanical-shifting bike!

Most cycling tours also offer snacks and drinks all the time. But beer, sunscreens, water bottles filled up without asking, water bottles moved under shades, luggage carried to our rooms? It was five stars service all the way.

From the moment we arrived, we were treated like movie stars – and you just can’t buy that anywhere else!

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FRANCE'S THRU HIKING TRAIL

The usa has its pacific crest trail, appalachian trail and cdt, new zealand has its te araroa, italy has its va sentiero, france now has the hexatrek , the great crossing of france through its most beautiful mountains .

HexaTrek is a 3034 km hiking trail, connecting 14 of the most beautiful nationals parks and crossing France from the  Vosges to the Pyrenees . The path follows the highest mountain regions of our country, often nicknamed "l'Hexagone" for its hexagonal shape, joining together some of the most emblematic summits , natural wonders and wildest places.  

47 Great Hiking GR®  trails have been brought together in a single path to create this thru hike.

Stopping off in the most picturesque villages, HexaTrek is a journey into wilderness ,  tradition , history and french culture.

FRANCE'S LONG DISTANCE TRAIL

HexaTeuf 2024 (3-5 Mai)

Le rendez-vous de l'année .

Ça te dit de t'échapper du quotidien pour un week-end de folie en pleine nature ? Que tu sois un HexaTrekeur du futur ou un pionnier de la première édition, rejoins nous le temps d'un week-end dans la région des Volcans d'Auvergne

THE “3000” of HexaTrek

Accessible fron the trail.

If you feel like adding a few meters of altitude difference to the 140,000 m already present on the route, discover the alternative routes of the HexaTrek. Here is our top 10 peaks over 3000m accessible from the HexaTrek route

THE HIKING GEAR LIST

Equipment you should carry in your bag.

The gear you are bringing with you on your thru-hike is paramount to its success To guarantee your independence and autonomy, here is a gear list to help you be ready to face the HexaTrek.

Hiking with your dog

The complete guide.

Between a reserve and the heart of a national park, the official HexaTrek route is only 80% passable with your dog. Find here the complete guide to prepare for the hexatrek with your dog, the route that we recommend...

Leaving for several months to cross France requires preparation! Find our 3 most useful articles to help you organize.

Before you start, subscribe to the newsletter, once a month, we will share important news , tutorials to better prepare yourself and articles dedicated to hiking ..

Thank you !

Follow us on our social networks

Discover the route in pictures , the most beautiful landscapes   that are crossed, illustrated every day on our page.

Every day a landscape

Press articles, hiking advice or even initiatives from the HexaTrek community, all our latest information is on our facebook page.

The news of the trail

Already more than 3000 Hexatrekkers have joined us, we regularly answer questions and organize audio conferences to help hikers prepare.

Discussion Group

By joining the Hexatrek Strava Club, you will be able to share your days by mentioning the club and find the activity of other hikers on the trail.

ARTICLES ABOUT HEXATREK

Click the logos to read the articles.

PARTNERS & SPONSORS

Immerse yourself in the heart of the trail, this documentary film invites you to discover the HexaTrek, an extraordinary long hike in the heart of the mountains, 3000km to connect the most beautiful natural parks in France. For several months, we went to meet these hikers who cross France on foot to immortalize their stories and their adventures on the Trail.

SUMMITS & STORIES

• What's the best season to hike the HexaTrek? In the north-south direction, we recommend starting after May 15 and before July 1. Snow accumulations in the Alps are still very high until early July. Leaving before June 1 exposes you to snow difficulties as soon as you arrive in the Alps. In the South-North direction, the best departure time is between June 1 and July 15. ➡️ Read our full article
• NOBO or SOBO ? Heading north-south (SOBO): With a gradual start in the Vosges mountains, hikers will have time to build up their physical fitness and arrive in the Alps well-prepared, once the passes have been freed of their winter snow. Bonus: magnificent sunsets over the Pyrenees, and a more symbolic arrival at the Atlantic Ocean! -Heading south-north (NOBO): Starting from the Pyrenees, you'll need to be in better physical shape at the start. After a few years' experience, we increasingly recommend this direction to avoid snow problems in the Alps. By the end of your hike, the Vosges will never be so snow-covered as to block your way, so you can go at your own pace. With a departure in June, you'll cross directly into the Pyrenees in June and the Alps in September, two great periods outside the school vacations to enjoy the best of both ranges without the tourists and full refuges.
• How long does it take to thru-hike the HexaTrek At a rate of 25km per day, with one rest day per week, the trek will take an average of 120 days to complete the entire thru-hike. Feedback from previous years indicates a duration of between 90 and 150 days. For those who don't have the time to do the whole trek in one go, we've divided the trek into 6 sections, so that it can be achieved in several stages over several seasons. 25km per day is an average, but some sections will be much more physical than others. Remember, the HexaTrek represents some 139,000m of cumulative ascent; 15 times Mount Everest! ➡️ Read more information about the trail
• Is it possible to CAMP anywhere on the HexaTrek Over a distance of more than 3,000km, you'll cross some of France's most beautiful mountainous regions. 74% of the HexaTrek is in areas where bivouacs are permitted. To find out where these are, you'll need to pay close attention to the signs on the trail, or you can download the official HexaTrek mobile app, which lists all areas where bivouacking is prohibited. ➡️ See our article about wild camp
• What is the average budget to complete the entire HexaTrek? This answer varies widely according to hiker profile. 10 € per day: Almost exclusively bivouacs, less than one night in a refuge per month and one restaurant per week. Your only expenses are your supplies and any breakages. 25 € per day: This is the average, i.e. €3,000 for 120 days. This includes 1 refuge per week, several midday or evening meals in the refuges and a few small pleasures during your 4-month walk. + 40 € per day: You regularly stay in half-board accommodation, sleep in refuges very often and buy quality groceries, freeze-dried food, sometimes sleep in hotels or treat yourself to other, more expensive pleasures.
• How to organize your hike, resupply, water points... The HexaTrek is a long-distance trek that can't really be organized in advance. It's hard to book a hut several weeks in advance, or deal with the unexpected on such a long trek. Along the way, you'll find regular water points, and the distances between 2 ressuply point are never more than 5 days of food carry. In the HexaTrek mobile app, you'll find all the water points, refuges, resupplies and other information you need to organize your day-to-day activities.
• What is the difficulty level of the trail? The entire HexaTrek is a made only of Hiking Trail. This is a challenging route, reaching many peaks close to 3000m elevation. Demanding physically and mentally condition, the Alps and Pyrenean stages include a lot of elevation gain. They also include some tricky passages, but no mountaineering skills are required during the summer season. If you set off outside the recommended periods, special equipment such as crampons or ice-axe may be required. The HexaTrek also includes alternatives paths, more demanding routes in the high mountains. A full list of the 11 alternative routes can be found on the mobile app, along with all the points of interest indicating where the difficult sections are. Good physical preparation is recommended, but long-distance hiking is an endurance activity accessible to all.
• What is the HexaTrek Association? he HexaTrek association is a registered non-profit organization under the French law of 1901. It was founded in 2021 to serve as an administrative structure, with the aim of developing and promoting this new trail in France and around the world. The project is run by a team of passionate volunteers, if you'd like to support us, join the HexaTrek community, enjoy benefits or participate in the life of the association, you can become a member. ➡️ Become a Member or Make a Donation
• Is it possible to hike with a dog ? It is not always easy to know the regulations limiting access to dogs. Between reserve and heart of national park, the official HexaTrek route is only 80% passable with your dog. We have published a complete guide to preparing for the hexatrek with your dog, the route we recommend as well as feedback from the first person to have hiked this trail accompanied by the now legendary dog : Thrall! ➡️ See the article in the Complete Guide
• How to become a partner or contribute to the project? Hexatrek is a non-profit association dedicated to creating the French hiking trail. Crossing France through its mountains, culture and wilderness, your donation will enable us to continue to grow Hexatrek, improve our infrastructure and maintain the trail. As an association, your donation will be eligible for tax deduction, and your generosity will help us build the trail's future. Your donation will also enable you to become a member of our association. ➡️ Open the Partnership page
• I have other questions... If you have any further questions, we invite you to join our DISCORD channel. thousand hikers have joined us on this forum, and we regularly answer any questions people may have. ➡️ Join us on discord

HexaTrek Association

With your membership fee, you allow the HexaTrek Association to continue its adventure while developing the trail for future hikers. Join the HexaTrek Association, receive invitations to organized events, benefit from advantages offered by the association and participate in the HexaTrek community. Your donations are eligible for tax receipts allowing you to deduct 66% of the amount paid from your taxable income.

SHARE YOUR ACTIVITIES

Would you like to share your hiking days on strava join the hexatrek club, share your activities and find the journey of other hikers, vosges - doubs - jura.

Etape 1 - Le Grand Est

Rencontrez les paysages féeriques du grand-est. entre forêts verdoyantes et cascades d’eau cristalline, à travers les trésors cachés de l’est français., dénivelé +, durée, savoie - beaufortain - vanoise.

Etape 2 - Alpes du Nord

Une traversée au cœur des plus beaux paysages de montagne, au centre de la mythique chaine des alpes., ecrins - belledonne - vercors.

Etape 3 - Hautes Alpes

Les hautes-alpes sont un paradis pour les randonneurs qui s’y aventurent. des espaces naturels sublimes à chaque virage de l'étape., cévennes - tarn - languedoc.

Etape 4 - Gorges & Causses

Ici, les gorges ont façonné les paysages au fil du temps et de l’eau. créant de hauts plateaux entre les jonctions de ces rivières, ces reliefs offrent aux randonneurs de l’hexatrek d’incroyables points de vue., corbière - catalogne - ariége.

Etape 5 - Pyrénées Est

L’itinéraire de cette étape traverse continuellement les frontières, entre la france, l’andorre et l’espagne. vous resterez au cœur du massif pyrénéen, au plus proche des sommets., parc national - bearn - basque.

Etape 6 - Pyrénées Ouest

Des plus hauts sommets pyrénéens au littoral français, cette étape vous conduira à travers des lieux mythiques comme le cirque de gavarnie ou le pic du midi d'osseau, discover 6 stages of the trail, whether you are going for the big adventure, or just a section of the hexatrek, discover each stages in more detail.

Stage 1 - The Great East

Discover the mystical landscapes of the grand est. between green forests and crystal clear waterfalls through the hidden treasures of eastern france., stage 2 - northern alps, throughout the heart of the most beautiful mountain landscapes, hike and enjoy the beautiful vistas in the center of the exceptional alps., stage 3 - southern alps, the hautes-alpes are a paradise for hikers who venture there. you will encounter magnificent natural areas at every corner., stage 4 - gorges & causses, here, time and water have shaped the landscape and dug deep gorges. creating high plateaux between the junctions of these rivers, this contrast offer hexatrek hikers incredible views., stage 5 - east pyrenees, the itinerary of this stage crosses the borders continuously, between france, andorra and spain. you will remain in the heart of the pyrenean range, close to the summits., stage 6 - west pyrenees, from the highest pyrenean summits to the french coastline, this stage will lead you through world-famous places such as the cirque de gavarnie or the pic du midi d'osseau..

THE MOBILE APP

Find all the points of interest, bivouac areas, refuges and all the places essential to your autonomy.

The official application of the trail, finally available!  

 All maps are available offline

Find all the bivouac areas , unguarded shelters and huts along the trail and know where to spend the night.

Don't miss any of the unmissable points of interest , natural wonders and the most beautiful villages in France

Identify water and resupply points to guarantee your autonomy

YOUR GUIDE ON THE TRAIL

Whether you are leaving for the great adventure, or simply a section of the hexatrek, discover the most beautiful landscapes of the trail in pictures, our latest articles.

Le Club Vosgien, un partenaire d’exception

Que cela soit un simple banc, une table de pique-nique, un abri ou encore un châlet-refuge, vous croiserez de nombreux aménagements entretenus par le Club Vosgien et leur bénévoles. À travers leurs sentiers et leurs balisages d’une qualité unique en France, vous découvrirez le massif des Vosges et leur richesse historique, culturelle ainsi que leur biodiversité remarquable.

HexaTrek - La randonnée longue distance de France

Alors que les Etats-Unis ont le Pacific Crest Trail, que la  Nouvelle-Zélande a le Te Araroa, il etait grand temps de donner à la  France un parcours qui mette en valeur toute la beauté et la diversité  de ses paysages !  Une équipe d’authentiques passionnés lancent l’HexaTrek en 2022 :  3 034 km de sentiers à travers les montagnes !

Top 10 Thru-Hike au monde

Les sentiers de longue randonnée inspirent des récits contradictoires de solitude et de camaraderie, de lits de rivière déserts et de plateaux de montagne, de plaisir et de douleur.

L'idée de parcourir des milliers de kilomètres à pied est elle-même à peine croyable. C'est peut-être ce qui rend ces aventures si mémorables.

Club Vosgien is partner of the HexaTrek

Whether it's a simple bench, a picnic table, a shelter or even a refuge shawl, you will come across many facilities maintained by the Club Vosgien and their volunteers. Through their trails and their markings of a unique quality in France, you will discover the Vosges mountains and their historical and cultural wealth as well as their remarkable biodiversity.

Hexatrek - The French thru hiking trail

United States has the Pacific Crest Trail, New Zealand has the Te Araroa, it was time to give France a trail that would hike all the beauty and diversity of its landscapes! A team of true enthusiasts are launching the HexaTrek in 2022: 3,000 km of trails through the mountains!

Breaking News

Top 10 thru-hike in the world.

Long-distance trails inspire conflicting tales of solitude and camaraderie, of deserted riverbeds and mountain plateaus, of pleasure and pain. The idea of walking thousands of miles is itself hardly believable. Perhaps that is what makes these adventures so memorable.

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montblanctreks

• Dates & Prices

The Tour du Mont Blanc

Guided & self guided trekking holidays.

Experience one of the world’s most spectacular classic treks and join Mont Blanc Treks this summer, with our great range of professionally guided and self-guided trekking holidays.

The Tour du Mont Blanc features in the World’s top ten 'must do' treks and it's not hard to understand why, as this trek is outstanding with amazing views day after day. The full circuit takes you on a 170 km journey around the Mont Blanc mountain range accumulating 10,000m of height gain and descent. You will trek through three alpine regions within France, Italy and Switzerland, circumnavigating the mighty Mont Blanc which stands at 4810m.

The route is generally done in an anticlockwise direction starting and finishing in Chamonix. Having trekked the route many times, we have put together a selection of guided and self guided treks that we feel work well. The full circuit will take you 10 days and journeys through the most stunning environment day after day. For those who don't quite have the time to devote to the full circuit we have the 'Best of', a six day trek which focuses on the highlights. We also offer the Westerly section from Chamonix to Courmayeur or Easterly section from Courmayeur to Chamonix. If you prefer to be self guided, all our treks can be tailor-made to suit your needs with changes to the route and additional rest days.

See our Video and Photo Gallery for day by day visual information of the terrain and the views you will encounter. Get in touch for further information, we would love to share our passion and wealth of knowledge with you.

Our Trek Packages

Full Guided Trek

• 12 nights, 10 days trekking
• UIMLA guided trek
• 165k classic trek through France Italy & Switzerland
• Full circuit touring the ‘Mont Blanc Massif’
• Good quality accommodation
• Bag transfer included
• Rest day in Courmayeur
• Trekking in the shadow of Europe's highest mountain

Westerly Guided Trek

• 6 nights, 4 days trekking
• 65k westerly section
• Chamonix to Courmayeur
• 1 day to explore Courmayeur & Chamonix
• Breathtaking mountains views and pretty alpine villages
• Add in additional days

Easterly Guided Trek

• 7 nights, 6 days trekking
• 100k trek the easterly through Italy, Switzerland and France
• Courmayeur to Chamonix
• Spectacular alpine flora and fauna
• Stunning alpine scenery
• Add in additional days in Courmayeur or Chamonix if required

Full Self-Guided Trek

• 11 nights, 10 days trekking
• 165k full circuit starting & finishing in Chamonix
• Self-Guided Trek trek
• Hassle free independent trekking
• Flexible start date to suit you
• Maps, route cards, guide book & expert advice
• Option to select daily route using traditional Tour du Mont Blanc or variants
• Add additional days or tailor made to suit you

Best Of Self-Guided Trek

• 110k shortened 'Best of' Tour starting and finishing in Chamonix
• Maps, route cards, guide book and expert advice

Westerly Self-Guided Trek

• 65k from Classic trek from Chamonix to Courmayeur
• 1 free day to explore Courmayeur & Chamonix
• Add additional days or tailor made

Easterly Self-Guided Trek

• 100k classic trek from Courmayeur to Chamonix

Full Refuges Self-Guided

• 12 nights, 11 days trekking
• 165k full circuit from Chamonix to Chamonix
• Dormitory accommodation in refuges & hotels

Best Of Refuges Self-Guided

• 7 nights, 6 day trekking
• 110k shortened 'Best of' Tour starting & finishing in Chamonix

Photo Galleries

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Your guide to Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, one of the most beautiful villages in France

Looking for a France tour that offers Provençal charm, picturesque mountain scenery, and some of the prettiest French pottery? Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is calling! “What you imagine when hearing ‘quaint medieval French village’ is what you get with Moustiers-Sainte-Marie,” said staffer Lydia. Read on to discover how to make the most of your time in one of the most beautiful villages in France.

Explore our France tours

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More travel inspiration

25 Incredible Hiking Trails Around the World

From a 4-hour slot canyon adventure to journeys that take weeks, these are beautiful bucket-list trails for hikers.

What makes a hike great? For some, it's a route with incomparable views. For others, it's a trail so exciting that you'll book a plane ticket to experience it, or one so tough that you earn bragging rights by conquering it. Backpacking trips , walking tours , hut-to-hut hikes — there are myriad ways to hit the trail.

To inspire your next excursion, we've curated a list of incredible trails around the world — bucket-list journeys for outdoor enthusiasts. Some can be completed in a few hours, if you hustle, but many are longer and perhaps best suited for intermediate and expert hikers. They're also geographically diverse, bringing adventurers to some of the most spectacular corners of the planet. Use this list as inspiration, then dig into trip details once you've decided what hike you'll tackle next, including permit requirements and training needs.

Related: The Ultimate Hiking Trip Packing List

West Coast Trail, Canada

This iconic coastal trail on Vancouver Island’s west coast offers stunning ocean views and rugged, challenging terrain. Backpacking this beauty over multiple days is a good plan, and you can ponder its history as you go — it was initially established as a life-saving path in 1907, to aid in the rescue of survivors shipwrecked along the island’s treacherous coast.

Tour du Mont Blanc, France, Italy, and Switzerland

This trail circles Mont Blanc — the highest peak in the Alps — and passes through three countries (France, Italy, and Switzerland), offering ample opportunity to taste regional cuisine. If you like cheese as much as you like walking, this 7 to 10 day multicultural circuit is for you.

Laugavegur Trail, Iceland

A journey through these rhyolite mountains (ultra-colorful landforms) will bring you to steaming hot springs, glacial rivers, and swaths of black sand. Laugavegur Trail traverses 34 miles of Iceland’s southern highlands, an it's incredible in its otherworldliness.

Overland Track, Australia

On this trail, you'll hike through Tasmania’s pristine wilderness, complete with craggy peaks, glacial lakes, and ancient rainforests. Be prepared for challenging terrain (think stairs and scrambles), rapidly changing weather conditions, and potential encounters with wildlife, from possums and currawongs (a large black bird with a musical call) to spotted marsupials called quolls. The trail is about 45 miles long, give or take a few (depending on where you begin and end).

Kumano Kodo, Japan

One of only two pilgrimage routes in the world designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site (the other is the Camino de Santiago in Spain), this series of ancient trails takes you on a tour of the mountains and forests of the Kii Peninsula, with stops at time-honored shrines and temples along the way. To do the entire route usually takes three days.

Camino de Santiago, Spain

Camino de Santiago is a collection of ancient pilgrimage routes that converge at the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral in northwest Spain, the burial site of St. James. Some pilgrims carry a scallop shell during the journey, as its lines symbolize their own trek, and those of other pilgrims around the world. This is another long-distance adventure — to do the approximately 500-mile route in full may take 30 days or more.

Lebanon Mountain Trail, Lebanon

The only long-distance trail in Lebanon, Lebanon Mountain Trail takes hikers through 76 high-altitude towns and villages and across remarkable mountains. It is 293 miles long, stretching from north Lebanon toward its southern border.

Pacific Crest Trail, USA

The Pacific Crest Trail is one of the world’s most famous thru-hikes. It starts at the US-Mexico border in California, and ends at the US-Canada border in Washington. That means the trail brings hikers through California, Oregon, and Washington — it takes five to six months to complete it. Highlights along the way include Crater Lake , the Sierra Nevada Mountains , and the Cascade Range.

Mount Kilimanjaro Trek, Tanzania

This 7-day trek takes hikers to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro , the highest peak in Africa. You’ll cross through five different ecological zones and climates, ranging from lush rainforests to arctic ice fields. The summit is as mentally demanding as it is rewarding.

Trek to Petra, Jordan

Hikers journey through ancient history and mesmerizing desert landscapes on this trek, all before landing at the awe-inspiring Treasury, also known as Al-Khazneh. This magnificent temple carved into a sandstone cliff dates back to the 1st century AD.

Great Himalaya Trail, Nepal

This trail network follows the Himalayan range and showcases stunning mountain landscapes, as well as the diverse cultures of the region's remote villages. It stretches over 2,800 miles across the country, traversing subtropical forests, lush valleys, alpine meadows, and rugged mountain passes.

Simien Mountains Trek, Ethiopia

The Simien Mountains Trek takes you right through Ethiopia’s Simien Mountains National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Expect drama, including high-altitude plateaus, deep valleys, and incredible (and copious) wildlife, such as gelada baboons and Ethiopian wolves.

Appalachian Trail, USA

One of the longest hiking-only footpaths in the world, the Appalachian Trail begins in Maine and passes through 14 states. At the trail’s southern terminus in Georgia, you will find a spooky celebration: a tree strung up with the boots of hikers who have completed the nearly 2,200-mile trek.

Lycian Way, Turkey

This long-distance trail follows the coast of Turkey’s Lycia region, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, rugged mountains, and ancient ruins. You can complete the route in roughly three weeks, or opt to do shorter segments. Along the way, swim in crystal-clear waters and visit charming towns.

The Narrows, USA

This slot canyon hike in Zion National Park is unusual in that you spend most of your time trekking through the waters of the Virgin River. You can attack the Narrows from the bottom up or from the top down. The former is the popular choice, since it takes 4 to 8 hours or so. If you hike it from the top down, expect a 10- to 13-hour journey.

Trolltunga Hike, Norway

One of the best ways to see the Norwegian fjords is via this challenging and scenic trek that leads to the eponymous Trolltunga (which translates to the "troll’s tongue"), a picturesque, jutting rock formation high above sea level.

Half Dome, USA

If you’re prone to height-induced vertigo, you may want to think twice before hiking Half Dome in California’s Yosemite National Park. To conquer the wildly steep slope here, hikers keep a tight grip on the granite trail’s cable system. This bucket-list adventure is considered one of the best hikes in America , and it's a bit of a white whale for some hikers — you need a permit to climb the dome, and they're distributed by lottery .

Kalalau Trail, USA

Located on the Hawaiian island of Kauai, this 22-mile coastal hike also requires a permit . If you can secure one, you'll traverse five valleys on your way to Kalalau Beach. One of the most challenging treks in the state, Kalalau Trail's steep and narrow paths give way to stunning ocean and cliff views.

Fitz Roy Trek, Argentina

Situated within Los Glacieres National Park on the shared border of Argentina and Chile, this challenging 15-mile trail does not actually lead to the summit of Mount Fitz Roy. Instead, it brings you to an unbelievable view of the glacier-covered mountain, as well as the turquoise-colored Laguna de los Tres at its base.

Inca Trail, Peru

The historic Andes mountains trek to Machu Picchu usually takes around four days, culminating at the renowned Incan citadel ruins. Although the classic Inca Trail is the most popular, numerous tour operators now offer additional routes and trip durations. The Salkantay trek, for example, provides a more scenic experience, bringing you past glaciers, natural springs, and through the jungle.

Angels Landing Trail, USA

The hike to Angel's Landing consists of two parts: a series of unrelenting switchbacks, then a stomach-in-your-throat cable climb. The final hair-raising stretch offers a remarkable payoff, as the views of the sandstone cliffs and valley below are literally breathtaking — you’ll be scared to breathe lest you make one wrong move near the landing's edge. This is without a doubt one of the best hikes in Zion National Park .

Ben Nevis Summit Trail, Scotland

One of three treks that make up the National Three Peaks Challenge (climbing the three highest peaks of Scotland, England, and Wales, often within 24 hours), the Ben Nevis Summit Trail will take you to the top of the U.K.'s highest peak. Whether you take the Mountain Track (affectionately known as the Tourist Track) or the Carn Mor Dearg Arête (usually reserved for more experienced summiteers), a gorgeous panorama of the Scottish Highlands awaits.

Milford Track, New Zealand

Located in South Island's Fiordland National Park, Milford Track is about 33 miles long, and it treats hikers to beautiful views of snow-capped mountain peaks, pristine rainforests, and even the highest waterfall in New Zealand. Well-maintained trails, conveniently placed huts, and a limit on the number of hikers per day make this a pretty comfortable long-distance trek.

Puez-Odle Altopiano, Italy

Here’s a cheat: Take a cable car to elevation, and then start out on the Puez-Odle Altopiano, a hike along the ridges of Italy’s Dolomite mountains. Prepare for panoramic views of the surrounding rocky peaks, plus lush green valleys filled with wildflowers. Go in the summer months if you're especially keen on seeing colorful blooms.

Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim, USA

If you’re not content to passively view the Grand Canyon from one side, why not cross it on foot? Doing so lets you experience the unique geological formations and diverse ecosystem of the Grand Canyon up close. It's possible to complete the 24-mile trek in one day, but when there’s an option to stay overnight in the belly of one of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders, you take it.

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Read the original article on Travel & Leisure .

Norwin grad combines career, travel, nomadic lifestyle

A North Huntingdon native has found that she can feel at home anywhere in the world, even when she’s thousands of miles away from the hills and rivers of Western Pennsylvania.

Kayla Ihrig has used her husband’s native Netherlands as a base for the past five years while branching out from where they have been living in the city of Groningen in northern Netherlands, not far from Germany.

“You get a perspective (living) abroad, that you never get at home. It’s different,” said Ihrig, 30, who graduated from Norwin in 2011.

Ihrig is the daughter of Lori and Bruce Ihrig. She works as a freelancer while traveling and has been a globetrotter the past seven years.

She spent time in Mexico, Guatemala, Panama, Peru and across the Atlantic Ocean in Greece and Portugal.

She’s spent time in more than 30 countries in all, including North Macedonia, Montenegro and Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Balkan peninsula.

“The quality of travel is so much more important than the quantity,” Ihrig said.

Along the way she has become what she characterizes as “traveler proficient” in Dutch, Spanish and French, enough so to get her point across.

Last month, she was in Portugal before returning to Groningen. That’s where her husband, Bert-Jan Schilthuis, hails from. They married in 2019 and Ihrig maintains dual citizenship.

During that time abroad, she has been able to blend two of her passions — writing and traveling — into a successful career.

“I have been working (writing) as a freelancer. My clients are my ‘meat and potatoes,’” Ihrig said.

Even though she is thousands of miles away from clients in the United States, ”it’s the same as anyone else who has a remote job.”

From her experiences as a remote worker — and not just from her home — she has written “How to Be a Digital Nomad: Build a Successful Career While Travelling the World,” which was published in January. The book is described on her website as “a practical guide and an insightful exploration of this unique lifestyle.”

Ihrig said she found people to interview who have been digital nomads in every decade since the 1980s. In some cases, there are now second-generation nomads.

Her blog, Writing from Nowhere, offers tips on how one becomes a digital nomad, from how to build a Pinterest account, the right type of backpack to carry your belongings in and how to work and travel. Mixed in with the lifestyle discussions are offers to provide expertise on building one’s website, content and marketing.

“It is much more doable than people realize. If you speak English natively and have a U.S. passport, you’re already incredibly privileged and have so many opportunities to travel and work abroad accessible to you,” Ihrig said.

Ihrig’s life as a digital nomad comes at a time when Italy in February created a special visa category for digital nomads. This includes non-European Union citizens who perform skilled work using technological tools to allow them to work remotely, regardless of whether the employer is Italian, according to Arletti Partiners, a firm that provides services to Italian industrial associations.

Love of writing

She started to hone the writing skills she has used to earn a living while traveling when she took a college writing class at Norwin taught by Brian Fleckenstein. The 2011 Norwin grad said she found that it to be more fun than work.

“Kayla was one of those students that keeps you on your toes to stay ahead of them,” Fleckenstein said. “She absorbed everything and nothing makes an English teacher happier than when your students find a passion for writing. It’s so great that Kayla is able to follow her passions of travel, journalism, and writing.”

She earned a journalism degree at Indiana University of Pennsylvania, majoring in public relations. She tried her hand at being a newspaper reporter, working for a short time at the Indiana Gazette.

But, she wanted to see life beyond the borders of the Keystone State. She worked for the American Red Cross in Seattle, writing communications and presenting programs about disaster preparedness at schools in Washington state.

She then moved to Chicago, working as a graphic designer for an architecture firm. She realized the 9-to-5 grind and working on the weekends was not what she wanted to do, she said.

“After two years of working a standard 9-to-5 job, I was at odds with letting my job dictate so much about the next four decades of my life,” Ihrig said.

So, she booked a one-way ticket to Cozumel, Mexico, living in a hostel and working online to earn money. She traveled through Latin America and South America for six months, seeing Panama and Peru. It was in Guatemala where she met her husband, who is an English teacher. They work together on their business.

“The great thing about today is that people can be entrepreneurs and follow their passion,” Fleckenstein said.

Ihrig, whose formal last name is Schilthuis-Ihrig, said she has not decided how long she and her husband will continue this lifestyle.

“At some point, I’m sure I’ll tire of traveling full time and crave a long-term home, an herb garden or any other luxury of a stationary life, but not now. I’ll keep moving until it stops being fun.” Ihrig said.

Ihrig and her husband recently completed a 150-mile hike on the Camino de Santiago of Portugal. It is a pilgrimage along the Atlantic coast of northwest Portugal, from Porto to Santiago de Compestella. It is part of a network of trails said to lead to the remains of St. James.

The 150-mile trip gave them time to test most of their gear and identify what they must carry when they embark this summer on a four-month journey on the Via Francigena trail. That pilgrimage starts in Canterbury, England, crosses the English Channel to France, then goes south through the Swiss Alps and into Italy, with Rome as the destination. The couple plans to stay in churches and convents open to visitors, but also will carry a tent because they anticipate doing a lot of camping, Ihrig said.

But, before she ventures across the Alps, Ihrig said they will return home be returning home for four weeks, beginning in mid-May. She has plans for a list of long uphill walks around Markvue Manor and running the stairs at Norwin Knights Stadium, as if she was practicing for the upcoming football season.

Then, after the long pilgrimage, they are thinking about traveling the Silk Road, the ancient route of travel from the Middle East to China, once traversed by famed explorer Marco Polo. Africa also could be on the list as well.

Her mother, Lori Ihrig, said they keep in touch with her during these years when she has been abroad, through texts, phone calls and Face Time, the audio and visual calling service. They also make trips to visit her, most recently meeting up in Portugal.

Lori Ihrig said she is not surprised at her daughter’s wanderlust. It was something she had as a youngster growing up.

“She’s a very adventurous soul,” Lori Ihrig said.

Kayla Ihrig said she looks forward all year to visiting her family in North Huntington and her sister, Julia Gray, in Greensburg. Still, she sees herself staying abroad long-term.

“I feel like I’m still just getting started,” she added.

Joe Napsha is a TribLive reporter covering Irwin, North Huntingdon and the Norwin School District. He also writes about business issues. He grew up on Neville Island and has worked at the Trib since the early 1980s. He can be reached at [email protected] .

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The pandemic bike boom is now a bust for local shops

Bicycle makers are now slashing prices to clear out excess inventory..

By The Associated Press

9:38 AM on May 17, 2024 CDT

For the nation’s bicycle shops, the past few years have probably felt like the business version of the Tour de France.

Early in the pandemic, a surge of interest in cycling pushed sales up 64% to $5.4 billion in 2020, according to the retail tracking service Circana. It wasn’t unheard of for some shops to sell 100 bikes or more in a couple of days.

The boom didn’t last. Hobbled by pandemic-related supply chain issues , the shops sold all their bikes and had trouble restocking. Now, inventory has caught up, but fewer people need new bikes. So, bicycle makers have been slashing prices to clear out the excess. It all adds up to a tough environment for retailers, although there are a few bright spots like gravel and e-bikes.

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“The industry had a hard time keeping up with the demand for a couple of years, but then demand slowed as the lockdowns ended, and then a lot of inventory started showing up,” said Stephen Frothingham, editor-in-chief of Bicycle Retailer & Industry News . “So now for the last, a year and a half, the industry has struggled with having too much inventory, at the supplier level, at the factory level, at the distributor level, at the retail level.”

In 2023, bike sales totaled $4.1 million, up 23% from 2019, but down 24% from 2020, according to Circana. The path out of the pandemic has been uneven — national retailers, such as REI and Scheels , are stabilizing faster than independent bike stores, said Matt Tucker, director of client development for Circana’s sports equipment business.

For John McDonell, owner of Market Street Cycles on the popular thoroughfare of Market Street in San Francisco, the shift to hybrid work brought about by the pandemic has been particularly tough on business. There used to be 3,000 bikes passing by his shop a day during the summer. That’s fallen to below 1,000, with fewer people commuting to work.

According to Pacer.ai , which tracks people’s movements based on cellphone usage, San Francisco lags all other major cities when it comes to workers returning to offices, with April office visits still down 49% compared with April 2019.

“Our downtown is still a wasteland,” McDonell said.

Independent bike stores not only have to compete with national chains, but increasingly, bike makers such as Specialized and Trek as well. They’ve been buying bike shops and selling their bikes directly to consumers, essentially cutting out the middleman. Frothingham estimates there are now around a thousand bike shops in the country owned by either Trek or Specialized.

“They’ve got the money to absorb the fact that bike stores, you know, are not a super profitable thing, and in the process, they’ve also been able to cut us out of it,” McDonell said.

McDonell has been forced to cut down to using a skeleton crew of himself and another staffer, down from five previously. His dream of selling his shop to a younger bike enthusiast when he retires is fading. He might close his store when his lease is up in a couple of years.

“Now I am just trying to land it with both engines on fire and trying not to lose money on my way out,” he said.

In Boulder, Colo., Douglas Emerson’s bike shop, University Bicycles, is faring better, boosted by its location in one of the most popular places to ride bikes in the country. He’s had the shop for 39 years and employs 30 staffers.

Like other bike stores, the pandemic spurred a frenzy of bike buying at University Bicycles. Emerson recalls selling 107 bikes in 48 hours. But right after the boom, sales slowed dramatically because inventory was scarce, and rentals died down since no one was traveling.

“It became a struggle right after the boom,” Emerson said. “And since then, the manufacturers have overproduced. And they’ve slashed prices dramatically which is good for the consumer. But with the small shops they’re often not able to take advantage of those prices.”

Emerson says the shop reached a “saturation point” — everyone who wanted a bike bought one. Now, he’s selling those customers accessories like clothing, helmets and locks. His shop has returned to its 2019 sales numbers.

University Bicycles has also benefited from some of the shifts in buying patterns. Continued high demand for e-bikes and a growing demand for children’s bikes have helped. And gravel bikes, which are designed to be ridden both on paved and gravel roads, are replacing road bikes as a popular seller.

John Ruger, who has been a cyclist for 50 years and is a loyal University Bicycles customer, hasn’t bought a bike in 10 years, but plans on taking advantage of the current prices to buy a gravel bike. A top gravel bike he’s eyeing that would normally sell for $12,000 to $14,000 is currently retailing for $8,000, he said.

“The timing is good,” he said. “I can get a bike now because they’re less expensive and my bikes are getting old.”

Shawna Williams, owner of Free Range Cycles in Seattle, Wash.,, didn’t have the sales surge others did because her 700-square-foot shop was so small she took customers only by appointment from March 2020 to May 2021.

But Williams did have to deal with the eventual shortages. She spent a lot of time “checking in with other shops to see if we could buy something, even at retail, from them, just in order to get a repair done or a build done.”

She adapted by offering more services like repairs and maintenance to offset lower sales of bikes. The maneuvering helped her keep overall sales steady even throughout the pandemic.

“Bike sales, the way that I have kind of framed the shop, are an awesome bonus, but we really need to be sustaining the shop through repair and, like, thoughtful accessory sales,” Williams said. “A bike sale to me, if we do things well, that means creating a customer for life.”

- Mae Anderson for the Associated Press

The Associated Press

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