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.

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.

Stage 6 will see the Tour d’Enfer climb the mythic Col d’Izoard. Perhaps most famous for the exploits of Fausto Coppi and Louison Bobet.

There may not be a better base in the French Alps for cycling than Barcelonnette.

It is literally surrounded by mountains looking to be climbed.

Day five’s challenge will be the biggest vertical ascent climb in France.

Day Four of the Tour d’Enfer will see the Tour de France go by us. This preview suggests a few ways to watch.

Don’t worry, only one climb today. It does happen to be the LONGEST climb in France.

Here is a preview of stage two of the upcoming July 2008 Lost Boys Tour d’Enfer.

Day 2: La Clusaz to Bourg-Saint-Maurice

The Stage: Approximately 92 kilometres (57 miles); Ascent: 3,030 metres (9,940 feet)

Here is stage one of the upcoming July 2008 Lost Boys Tour d’Enfer. A trip organized by my friend Leslie that will include people from the USA, Canada, France, Turkey, Germany, and Switzerland.

Doreen and I have successfully “slain the dragon” by cycling across the length of Wales.