Alpe d’Huez is a true legend amongst road cyclist and has witnessed many famous battles at the end of a Tour de France stage. Bourg d’Oisans sits just 1 minutes cycle ride from the twenty one bends. Its a classic climb and every cyclist should climb it.

Description

Alpe d’Huez needs little introduction as it is probably the most famous cycle climb in the world, with thousands of riders attempting the climb each week during the summer months. Famous for having 21 switchbacks (actually there are more than 21 bends – hence the name of the tours) the climb starts just a few minutes from Bourg d’Oisans at 720 m and rises over 14km to a height of 1860 metres.

The first 4 bends are the hardest, with the steepest gradients, but once passed this point you should be on your way to conquering the climb. Each bend is numbered with a board starting at bend 21 at the bottom. As well as the number on the board the names of each winner of the stage from the Tour de France are also listed. It was last used in the Tour de France in 2011.

The climb is also used at the end of La Marmotte sportive and the Dutch Alpe d’Huzes charity cycle event where a single or team of riders climb Alpe d’Huez 6 times.

Profile

[Average gradient: 8.1% – Maximum gradient : 10.6% – Distance 14km – Height gain 1071m]