For 2026 we’re excited to see the return of a Skedaddle classic – Route des Grandes Alpes. This is a spectacular mountain journey from the shores of Lac Léman (Lake Geneva), crossing one of the most famous mountain ranges in professional cycling, before finishing in Nice on the Côte d‘Azur. Each day brings new challenges as you conquer the classic climbs of the Tour de France, including Col de l’Iseran, Col du Galibier, Col d’Izoard, Col de Vars, and Col de Vence. You’ll also scale the mighty Cime de la Bonette, which is the highest road pass in Europe at 2800m. With 750Km and 18,250m to cover in seven riding days, this is the ultimate challenge ride you do not want to miss next year!
We caught up with our Road Cycling Product Specialist and Guide, David Hall, to find out more…
How did you put the itinerary together?
Route des Grandes Alpes is a classic challenge ride that has been popular with cycling enthusiasts for decades. We’ve created an itinerary that makes it a manageable and enjoyable challenge – though make no mistake this is still our toughest cycling holiday in the Skedaddle range! You can expect all the usual Skedaddle holiday hallmarks, from quality accommodation to delicious picnic lunches and an expert guide team who are always on hand to offer words of encouragement and help you keep the wheels turning.
What is your favourite part of the route?
It’s impossible to pick a single highlight. The whole journey is the highlight! This is a chance to ride across one of the most dramatic mountain ranges in the world, ticking off Tour de France classics every day. There’s nothing quite like tasting the first cold beer at the end of each day and that sense of achievement from conquering one of the most epic cycling challenges out there.
What kinds of cyclists will enjoy this tour?
It will absolutely appeal to riders looking for a challenge. Those who love climbing and descending in big mountain terrain. It’s a dream journey for anyone with an interest in the world of professional cycling, its history and its culture. One of the things that makes cycle racing different to other sports is the fact you can go and ride the very same roads your heroes have ridden, seeing their names painted across the tarmac, it’s a special experience.
When is the best time of year to ride the Route des Grandes Alpes?
It’s very much a summer destination and there is a limited window in which you can ride. The roads and high passes are closed at other times of the year due to snow and ice. Then of course you need to avoid Le Tour.
What are your top tips for riders interested in joining this tour?
- Don’t be put off by the stats – riding in the big mountains is often much more manageable than we might imagine and the data might suggest. Remember that isn’t a race, rather it’s an achievable challenge.
- At the same, take it seriously and prepare yourself physically in advance. Get some miles in your legs beforehand and don’t turn up thinking “I’ll get fit during this tour”.
- Clothing-wise, plan for every eventuality. Our route takes us into and through a wide range of terrains and climates and it isn’t unusual to experience extremes in weather and temperature. You won’t regret packing that warm jacket and those long-fingered gloves.
- If you don’t already have one, invest in the decent navigational device such as a Garmin or Wahoo. When loaded with accurate routes it won’t only aid with navigation but it will help to keep track of your progress – never again will you have to ask “how much further to the top?”
- Do some research, read up in advance. Simply ticking off classic climbs every day is all well and good, but the French Alps are steeped in romance, legend and lore. For anyone with even a passing interest in professional cycling, riding the same roads that the pros have ridden for the past 120 years is even more thrilling when you understand something of their history and significance.
Join us next year!
If you like the sound of this incredible journey across the Alps then see our holiday page for more details…
Geneva to Nice – Route des Grandes Alpes