Overview: Six days of cycling, one rest day and a huge variation in landscapes and scenery. The Alps to Ardeche takes in some of the toughest climbs and the most breathtaking scenery on its way from Courchevel (Tour de France stage finish in 2005) via Mont Ventoux in provence and into the Ardeche – home of the biggest cycling event in France – ‘l’Ardechois’.
The Alps to Ardeche cycle started when Evasion Travel founder, Adam decided end the winter season of 2009-10 by cycling from our winter base in Courchevel to our summer one in the Ardeche. Before you know it, he was joined by a bunch of pals on a trip that has grown every year. The route is totally unique as it traverses the tough climbs of the Alps, rolling beauty of the Vercours national park, exposed flanks of Mont Ventoux, fast, flat plains of the Rhone Valley and the awe-inspiring gorges of the Ardeche.
Duration: 7 nights
Trip start: Saturdays throughout May, June, September and October.
Level of experience required: A good level of road cycling experience. Ability to cycle 100-130km/day in hilly terrain.
Min no. people: 4
Max no. people: No maximum
Itinerary:
Note: Routes may change up to and during the event.
Saturday – Day 1
Arrival and transfer to Courchevel
Sunday – Day 2
Alpine Cols. Fast riding in the alpine valley a touch climb Up the Col de la Madeliene. Descent to end the day.
Monday – Day 3
Lakes and meadows. After a short warm-up a steep climb is rewarded by a morning of rolling hills, lakes, alpine meadows and stunning views.
Tuesday – Day 4
Mont Ventoux – flatter riding at the start of the day but save your energy. Mont Ventoux (1912m) stands between you and the finish today!
Wednesday – Day 5
Rest day – relaxing and wine tasting in the Rhone Valley.
Thursday – Day 6
The Ardeche Gorge. Fast riding through the Rhone valley vineyards, across the river itself and up the mighty Ardeche Gorge – a vast canyon with breathtaking views all the way.
Friday – Day 7
The Massif Centrale. A loop into more Tour de France country with steep sided valleys, ridgetop routes and descents beside fast flowing canyons.
Cost and more information
Cost: €795/person (c. £660)
Cost includes:
Vehicle support and all transport required.
Collection from Lyon.
Accommodation in 2 and 3* hotels.
7 breakfasts and 6 dinners (one night out)
Dedicated driver/guide.
Cost excludes:
Bikes (we can arrange hire)
Lunches and 1 dinner.
Transport to Nimes/Avignon
How to book:
Email info@evasiontravel.co.uk or call 0208 133 4533 (UK) or 06 40 11 10 31 (France)
All bookings are subject to our terms and conditions which can be found at www.evasiontravel.co.uk.
