Are you looking for a challenging cycle touring route in the Alps that visits some of the most famous Tour de France climbs?

The Route des Grandes Alpes starts on the shores of Lake Geneva and crosses 16 of the highest French passes continuing all the way to the Mediterranean Sea. Over 700 kilometres (+400 miles) and almost 15,700 metres (51,500 feet) of vertical climb.

Barry and Martin patiently agreed to ride SLOWLY with me today. They even let several fat guys pass us. When a beautiful girl rode by it was almost too much for them - but they were loyal and slow.

I receive a few emails each week asking questions about cycling in the Alps.

To save some effort, I thought I’d put some of the more frequently asked questions / answers here.

I have had a niggling pain in my left gastrocnemius muscle (calf) for a few weeks, but it wasn’t getting worse or affecting my riding.

At least, until last week’s 5+ hour ride up Col du Sac - including pushing and hiking through snow. It left me limping.

At the turn, I told Eric it would be impossible to reach and totally covered in snow.

He gave me a half-smile. I knew we were going up.

The Vallée Verte South of Lake Geneva is a beautiful place to get some climbing in while the big Alps are closed. There are quiet, fairly steep climbs everywhere.

This morning it was raining, very windy, and cold. So I sat by the phone waiting for Keith to cancel.

But he is Scottish not Australian, so canceling never crossed his mind.

There is a Grande Randonnée (GR) hiking route along the top of La Vuache and someone had recently asked me if it was do-able by bike.

Today - with Eric and Jason - the idea was to find out.

I spend a lot of time searching for climbs.

But it’s worth remembering how much fun relaxed, social rides can be with friends.

Col de la Faucille is one of the best know climbs in the Jura Mountains.