A guidebook to nine of the most picturesque cycling routes through the Alps of south-east France. The eight circuits, plus the Grand Traverse from Geneva to Nice, include the classic high passes of the French Alps (Galibier, Iseran, Izoard, etc) as well as cycle routes in the pre-Alps and Southern Jura.
Seasons
Mid-April to mid-October (areas below 1500m); mid-May to end September (over 1500m); November to March too cold!
Centres
Lyon, Geneva, Bellegarde-sur-Valserine, Martigny, Grenoble, St Jean-de-Maurienne, Barcelonnette, Nice
Difficulty
Difficult (aimed at fit and experienced cyclists). Average distance 50-80km/stage (1000-1500m average height gain/stage).
Must See
Mountain views; unspoilt villages; French cuisine; following the Tour de France routes; Mont Ventoux; a hot shower at the end of the day!