Planning to Ride L’Etape du Tour 2026 ? Whether it’s your first time riding in the Alps or your fifth sportive of the season, L’Etape du Tour is different. Longer climbs. Bigger exposure. Higher pressure. More emotion. And every year, strong riders arrive fit — but still make avoidable mistakes that cost them their day.…
Tag: Alpe d'Huez
If you’re planning to ride in the Oisans and everyone keeps talking about Alpe d’Huez, here’s something most riders overlook. The Pas de la Confession. A quieter, north-facing climb above Bourg d’Oisans that gives you spectacular views, steady gradients, and none of the chaos of the famous 21 bends. In this week’s video, I ride…
When people think about cycling in the Oisans Valley, they usually think of Alpe d’Huez.But some of the best rides in the French Alps are the quieter ones. The Col d’Ornon is often suggested as a rest-day climb: smooth tarmac, gentle gradients, and far less traffic than the big cols. On paper, it’s an ideal…
I’ve spent the last 17 years riding, supporting, and working on these exact Alpine roads — long before they became the Étape du Tour 2026 route. On paper, the course looks incredible.In reality, it’s far more complex, demanding, and unforgiving than most riders expect. I’ve just published a clear, rider-focused guide that explains: 👉 Read…
For decades, cyclists have been told there are 21 bends on Alpe d’Huez. It’s the legend. The myth. The badge of honour. But after riding the climb myself — and filming every turn — I realised something surprising: There are More Than 21 Bends. More than most people think. My latest video breaks it all…
TWO CHANCES TO WIN ONE OF MY EXCLUSIVE CYCLING PRINTS On the 1st April I am giving away one of my exclusive cycling prints .Wow ! What do I need to do ? You simply need to watch the final installment of my Origine Trail video where I had to take a drill to the…
Two of the most legendary climbs in cycling. One unforgettable journey. Imagine pedaling up the 21 hairpin bends of Alpe d’Huez, where cycling history is written with every turn. Picture yourself conquering Mont Ventoux, the towering Giant of Provence, its barren summit a true test of endurance and willpower. This tour isn’t just a ride—it’s…
Well, here we are, already deep into the year, and I’m finally getting around to writing my first blog post. One of my New Year’s resolutions was to post a blog once a month but I failed that one in January. But hey, life gets busy, right? At least I’ve managed to keep one resolution…
Alpe d’Huez – the name alone stirs excitement and respect among cyclists worldwide. Dubbed ‘the Dutch Mountain’ by Tour de France fans, this legendary climb is a proving ground that has witnessed the grit and determination of champions like Bernard Hinault and Marco Pantani