french-alps-the-classic-route-des-grandes-alpes

Guided groups

Road cycling

lvl. 3
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Mon Roadbook App
Multi-day hike
Réf : E3GA
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Our trip

  • A legendary Alpine crossing, riding in the wheel tracks of the Tour de France, tackling the greatest mountain passes: Iseran, Galibier, Izoard, Bonette...

  • A dedicated support vehicle and driver, allowing you to ride with complete peace of mind and stay fully focused on your goal.

  • A spectacular finish by the sea, as you roll into Nice to complete your journey.

  • Choose between two differents routes each day, with varying distances and profiles, depending on your daily shape, weather and route preferences.

 

"Mon Roadbook" app is available for this trip.
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Set off from Thonon-les-Bains, on the shores of Lake Geneva, for a legendary cycling adventure: the Crossing of the Alps - a truly iconic route spanning approximately 435 miles (700 km) with a total elevation gain of 54,100 feet (16,500 m). Over seven stages, you take on the challenge of the most emblematic mountain passes of the Tour de France, including the Col de l'Iseran, Col du Galibier, Col d'Izoard, and the Cime de la Bonette. Each day unfolds through breathtaking landscapes, from dense Alpine forests and lush high-altitude meadows to the shimmering shores of the Mediterranean Sea, the ultimate reward for this remarkable achievement. From the Aravis massif to the Mercantour, via the Vanoise, this great journey on two wheels is a truly unique experience for cycling enthusiasts - a perfect blend of shared adventure, camaraderie, and a genuine taste for physical challenge

Reservation

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Departure dates for the coming season are being prepared. One of our team members can reach out to you when the information is available. To make this happen, please complete your availability information

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*The date of departure is subject to change at any time (as specified in chapter 6.1 of our general terms and condition of sale).

Embark on an extraordinary journey, creating lasting memories as you adventure off the beaten path, with respect for the environment and local communities. Envision your next adventure with your family or friends. Let us help you shape your own experience !

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Itinerary

Choose between two different routes each day, with varying distances and profiles, depending on your daily shape, weather and route preferences:
— Route level 2: 710 km (441 miles) and 16,600 m (54,462 ft) of climbing.
— Route level 3: 950 km (590 miles) and 25,300 m (83,005 ft) of climbing.
Mon Roadbook app: designed for the self-guided trips, "Mon Roadbook" travel assistant guides you throughout your journey via a mobile application to download on your smartphone.
Duration : 8 days
Luggage transfers : You only carry your personal items for the day
Lodging : Hotel
Guiding : With a driver-logistics coordinator and a support vehicle
Group : From 5 to 20 participants. The departure will be confirmed from 5 participants (The date of departure is subject to change at any time, as specified in chapter 6.1 of our general terms and condition of sale).

Day by day

Day 1

Thonon-les-Bains to La Clusaz

Distance : 90 to 120 km (56 to 74,5 miles) - Ascent : 2200 to 3300 m (7,218 to 10,826 ft)
Lodging : hotel. Included meals : lunch, dinner. Meals not included : breakfast.
Meeting point with the tour team at 9:00 a.m. at Thonon-les-Bains railway station.
Just across the square, in front of the town hall (Place de l'Hôtel de Ville), stands the "Kilomètre 0" of the legendary Route des Grandes Alpes - a perfect photo opportunity before setting off.

The journey begins along the shores of Lake Geneva, heading toward the Savoy Alps, following in the tire tracks of the Tour de France. Through the idyllic landscapes of the Chablais and over the Col de la Jambaz (1,027 m / 3,369 ft), the route offers the ideal terrain to gently warm up the legs for what lies ahead.

The tone shifts as we enter the Aravis range, where sharp-edged peaks and dramatic rock faces dominate the horizon. The first true challenge awaits at the Col de la Colombière: here, dense conifer forests give way to postcard-perfect alpine meadows, where the sound of cowbells sets the rhythm of the climb.

A sweeping descent leads to the ski villages of Le Grand-Bornand and La Clusaz, where we settle into our accommodation in the heart of the Savoy mountains.

Passes of the day:
— Col de Jambaz, 1027 m / 3,369 ft (level 2)
— Col de Joux Plane, 1712m / 5,616 ft (level 3)
— Col de la Colombière, 1613 m / 5,292 ft.

Highlights:
— A warm up on the quiet mountain roads of the Col de Jambaz (level 2)
— The beautiful Vallée du Giffre and Val d'Abondance (level 3)
— The "Portes du Soleil" area of Morzine, Les Gets, Avoriaz (level 3)
— The Diable gorges and bridge (level 3)
— Views of the Mont Blanc range
— Col de la Colombiere: the first difficulty of the week, and first real mountain pass of the Alps...
— Le Grand Bornand: reputable ski resort known for the beauty and authenticity of its mountain chalets

Distance and altitude gain:
— Level 2: approx. 90 km (56 miles) and 2200 m (7,218 ft)
— Level 3: approx. 120 km (74,5 miles) and 3300 m (10,826 ft)

NB: On request we can book the previous night's accommodation for you in Thonon Les Bains. Feel free to ask us.
Day 2

La Clusaz to Bourg-Saint-Maurice

Distance : 90 to 100 km (56 to 62 miles) - Ascent : 2600 to 2800 m (8,530 to 9,186 ft)
Lodging : hotel. Included meals : breakfast, lunch, dinner.
This morning begins with the first ascent of the Col des Aravis (1,486 m / 4,875 ft), its perfectly engineered hairpin bends winding through open alpine meadows. From the summit, breathtaking views unfold over Mont Blanc and its glaciated neighboring peaks.

The route then drops into the narrow Val d'Arly valley, before climbing once again toward Les Saisies, a renowned Nordic skiing area, where we cross the pass of the same name (1,650 m / 5,413 ft). A long descent brings us into the Beaufortain, a postcard-perfect landscape of chalets, mountain forests, alpine pastures, and rugged peaks.
In the distance rises the rocky spire of Pierra Menta, emblem of Europe's most famous ski mountaineering race. The village of Beaufort lends its name to one of France's most prized cheeses, often referred to as the "Prince of Gruyère cheeses." A visit to the local cheese cooperative is possible, offering insight into the importance of cheese production for the region's economy.

A little further on, the road climbs once more toward the Cormet de Roselend (1,967 m / 6,453 ft), where a vast reservoir with striking turquoise waters awaits. A final descent leads into the Tarentaise Valley, one of Savoie's two main valleys, watched over by the Aiguille des Glaciers, the highest point in the municipality of Bourg-Saint-Maurice. Overnight stay in Séez, above the town.
 
Passes of the day:
— Col des Aravis, 1486 m / 4,875 ft
— Col des Saisies, 1650 m / 5,413 ft
— Col du Joly, 1989 m / 6,525 ft (level 3, optional)
— Col du Pré, 1703 m / 5,587 ft (level 3)
— Cormet de Roselend, 1967 m / 6,453 ft

Highlights:
— The Aravis mountain range with stunning views of the Mont Blanc
— The olympic resort of Les Saisies
— The Beaufortain and its famous cheese, the Beaufort (possibility to visit the cheese cooperative)
— The turquoise waters of Lake Roseland, surrounded by beautiful alpine scenery

Distance and altitude gain:
— Level 2: approx. 90 km (56 miles) and 2600 m (8,530 ft)
— Level 3: approx. 100 km (62 miles) and 2800 m 9,186 ft) (Col du Joly option: + 28 km (17 miles) and 900 m (2,953 ft) 
Day 3

Bourg-Saint-Maurice to Val Cenis

Distance : 80 to 90 km (50 to 56 miles) - Ascent : 2200 to 2600 m (7,218 to 8,530 ft)
Lodging : hotel. Included meals : breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Today we connect the two largest Alpine valleys of the Savoy and French Alps - the Tarentaise (Isère Valley) and the Maurienne (Arc Valley) by crossing the famous Col de l'Iséran at an altitude of 2,762 m (9,062 ft) near the main Alpine ridge. On the way, we can enjoy countless panoramic views of the Vanoise National Park and pass through one of the most beautiful villages in the French Alps: Bonneval-sur-Arc, with its well-preserved stone houses. The further the descent leads into the valley, the higher the mountain giants rise to the left and right; a touch of the south blows here in the High Maurienne.

Passes of the day:
— Col de l'Iseran, 2762m (9,062 ft)
— Col du Mont Cenis, 2083 m (6,834 ft) (optional, level 3)

Highlights:
— Liaison between the two biggest valleys of the Alps: the Tarentaise and the Maurienne
— The Col de l'Iseran: simply one of the most beautiful and longest passes in the Alps...
— Panoramic views of the Vanoise National Park
— Small, traditional villages and their stone houses (Le Miroir, La Gurraz...) where time seems to have stood still

Distance and altitude gain:
— Level 2: approx. 80 km (50 miles) and 2200 m (7,218 ft)
— Level 3: approx. 90 km (56 miles) and 2600 m (8,530 ft)
— Optional climb to the Col du Mont Cenis at the end of the stage (there and back from Val Cenis): +30 km (18,6 miles) and 750 m (2,460 ft)
Day 4

Val Cenis to Mônetier-les-Bains

Distance : 100 to 175 km (62 to 109 miles) - Ascent : 2500 to 4300 (8,202 to 14,108 ft)
Lodging : hotel. Included meals : breakfast, lunch, dinner.

The day begins gently with a mostly downhill ride toward Saint-Michel-de-Maurienne. To avoid the busy valley road, we follow a superb balcony road winding through larch and pine forests.

Near Modane, the Vauban fortifications stand as a reminder of the region's former strategic importance, at a time when Savoy alternated between French and Italian rule over the centuries. Further down the valley, we reach Saint-Michel-de-Maurienne, the traditional starting point of one of the Tour de France's most legendary climbs: the ascent of the Col du Galibier (2,645 m / 8,678 ft).

The challenge begins with the classic Col du Télégraphe, where the road remains below the tree line. After a welcome flatter section through the village of Valloire, the true ascent of the Galibier begins, set amid dry alpine pastures and the stark yet elegant peaks of the Cerces massif.

From the summit of the pass, the view over the Écrins massif to the south is nothing short of spectacular - a panorama to be savored throughout the long descent that follows. 

Passes of the day:
— Col du Télégraphe, 1566 m / 5,138 ft (level 2)
— Col du Galibier, 2645 m / 8,678 ft (level 2)
— Col de la Croix de Fer, 2067 m / 6,781 ft (level 3 "expert")
— Col du Glandon, 1924 m / 6,312 ft (level 3 "expert")
— Col du Lautaret, 2058 m / 6,752 ft
— Col du Granon, 2413 m / 7,917 ft (level 3)

Highlights:
— A string of some of the most famous cols of the Tour de France!
— The « high mountain » atmosphere of the Galibier (level 2)
— Panoramic views of the Ecrins and its famous summit, the Meije

Distance and altitude gain:
— Level 2: approx. 100 km (62 miles) and 2500 m (8,202 ft)
— Level 3: approx. 140 km (87 miles) and 3700 m (12,139 ft)
— Level 3 "expert": 175km (109 miles) and 4300 m (14,108 ft)

Day 5

Mônetier-les-Bains to Barcelonette

Distance : 110 to 120 km (68 to 74, miles) - Ascent : 2000 to 2800 m (6,562 to 9,186 ft)
Lodging : hotel. Included meals : breakfast, lunch, dinner.
We leave Monêtier and the Southern Alps unravel before our eyes: Larch forests, sun-browned stone villages and dry pastures with sheep and goat herds now dominate the landscape. Via the town of Guillestre, we reach the Queyras Regional Nature Park, which is located on the French side at the foot of Mont Viso (many regional products). The route then climbs towards the Col de Vars (2,109 m / 6,919 ft), with its larch forests and rocky mountains. The descent to Barcelonnette in the direction of our accommodation is exhilarating... All that remains is to crank up the last short climb to the small ski resort of Le Sauze.
 
The stage offers the option of choosing the route variant via the Col d'Izoard with its famous stone chaos of the Casse Déserte from Briançon (a must!). Optionally, those who still have plenty of energy left can take the legendary Bonette mountain road up to the col and on to the Cime de la Bonette at a very low altitude of 2,802 m (9,193 ft).

Passes of the day:
— Col de l'Isoard, 2360 m / 7,743 ft (level 3)
— Col de Vars, 2109 m / 6,919 ft
— Col de la Bonette, 2802 m / 9,193 ft (level 3, optional)

Highlights:
— The passage from the Northern Alps to the Southern Alps and its larch forests and sun-kissed slopes
— The Col de l'Izoard, the famous Casse Déserte and the Queyras Nature Park
— The Col de Vars: one of the most major cols of the Alps with over 1000 metres of altitude gain on both sides
— For the most courageous, the mythical col de la Bonette climb (Europe's highest motorable pass road) as the end of-the-day bonus challenge!

Distance and altitude gain:
— Level 2: approx. 110 km (68 miles) and 2000 m (6,562 ft)
— Level 3: approx. 120 km (74,5 miles) and 2800 m (9,186 ft)
— Optional climb to the Col de la Bonette at the end of the stage: + 47 km (29 miles) and 1600 m (5,249 ft)
Day 6

Barcelonette to Beuil

Distance : 85 to 110 km (53 to 68 miles) - Ascent : 2200 to 2900 m (7,218 to 8,514 ft)
Lodging : hotel. Included meals : breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Into the saddle and a quick visit to Barcelonnette, the city of Mexican villas! Then we head south, up a lonely and beautiful route to the Col de la Cayolle, which takes us deep into the Mercantour National Park. Wild mountains as far as the eye can see. This is wolf territory and people and their villages are few and far between in this remote area. From the pass, we descend into the Var valley, from where we start the ascent to the Col de Valberg a short time later. After all, there are 12 kilometres and 900 metres (2,953 ft) of ascent to overcome here. After this second difficulty, we reach our stage town of Beuil at 1,450 m (4,757 ft) for our last night in the French Alps.

Passes of the day:
— Col de la Cayolle, 2326 m / 7,631 ft (level 2)
— Col d'Allos, 2250 m / 7,382 ft (level 3)
— Col des Champs, 2087 m / 6,847 ft (level 3)
— Col de Valberg, 1650 m / 5,413 ft

Highlights:
— The switch form the Ubaye valley to the Haute Vallée du Verdon on the ancient route of the Col d'Allos
— The Col de la Cayolle and Col des Champs: superb climbs through the heart of the Mercantour National Park.
— The Gorges de Bachelard

Distance and altitude gain:
— Level 2: approx. 85 km (53 miles) and 2200 m (7,218 ft)
— Level 3: approx. 110 km (68 miles) and 2900 m (8,514 ft)
Day 7

Beuil to Nice

Distance : 120 to 145 km (74,5 to 90 miles) - Ascent : 2200 to 3200 m (7,218 to 10,499 ft)
Lodging : hotel. Included meals : breakfast, lunch, dinner.
On the final day of our road cycling tour, a long stage awaits, with the last mountain passes and long descents leading all the way to the Côte d'Azur.

In the cool of the morning, we ride through conifer forests to reach the Col de la Couillole after a gentle 7 km warm-up, followed by what is arguably the most beautiful descent of the week into the Tinée Valley.

The Col Saint-Martin and Col du Turini still demand respect. After climbing into the Vésubie Valley, where villages cling to steep slopes marked by the traces of Storm Alex (2020), the Route des Grandes Alpes offers one final challenge: the 15 km ascent to the Col du Turini (1,600 m / 5,249 ft).

From the summit, the road turns south, rolling gently before a long glide down to Nice. The journey ends in style on the Promenade des Anglais, where we celebrate the completion of this legendary Alpine crossing. Overnight stay and dinner in Nice.

Passes of the day:
— Col de la Couillole, 1678 m / 5,505 ft
— Col de Saint Martin, 1500 m / 4,921 ft
— Col de Turini, 1604 m / 5,262 ft (level 3) 
— Col Saint Roch, 990 m / 3,248 ft (level 3)

Highlights:
— The winding mountain roads in the typical landscape of the Mediterranean Maritime Alps and the Côte d'Azur hinterland
— The descent into the Tinée valley with the village of Roubion and the red rock Tinée gorge
— The Col de Turini, last major climb of the tour!
— The knowledge that all the major cols are behind us!
— A superb chain of small passes with fantastic views of the Mediterranean
— Arriving at the Mediterranean Sea and the well-deserved final evening in Nice!

Distance and altitude gain:
— Level 2: approx. 120 km (74,5 miles) and 2200 m (7,218 ft)
— Level 3: approx. 145 km (90 miles) and 3200 m (10,499 ft)

Day 8

Nice, Congratulations !

Included meals : breakfast. Meals not included : lunch, dinner.

End of the trip in Nice after breakfast.
Congratulations! You have just completed the legendary Alps Crossing. What a journey!

NB: we can offer the transfer back from Nice to Thonon-les-Bains with the support vehicle. Seats are limited (8 persons). Feel free to ask.

The active times are given as an indication and may vary depending on several elements (eg. weather conditions, terrain, etc.). Transfer times may also vary depending on road and traffic conditions. If necessary (eg: weather conditions, decision of local authorities, etc.), we may also be required to adapt the program for the smooth running of your trip and in the interest of the participants.

During your trip

Our team

A dedicated support driver provides logistical assistance throughout the day. Equipped with a mobile phone, he remains available at all times in case of any physical or mechanical issue and informs you daily of the picnic location.

Thanks to the MonRoadbook app and detailed GPS tracks, you ride independently, free to set your own pace and choose the route that suits you best.

Lodging

Each accommodation has been carefully selected to guarantee comfort, hospitality and typical atmosphere. Our standard is double/twin rooms with en-suite bathrooms (shower/bathtub and toilet). The majority of the trip takes place in 2* hotels.
Occasionally, we use 3* hotels as well as some simpler accommodation : Gîtes d'Etape (inns). 
Depending on availability, we may not be able to offer single rooms for all nights.

Meals

This trip is fully catered (breakfast, lunch and dinner included). We pay very careful attention to the quality and the variety of your meals. Fresh and local products will be served wherever possible. This trip is also an opportunity to discover the local gastronomy and regional products - l'art de la table!
 
— Continental breakfasts taken at the accommodation.
— Simple cereal/muesli bars and dried fruit are distributed in the morning before the start of the stage. You must bring your own specific energy bars and isodrinks, if desired.
— Hearty dinners (3 to 4 courses, with local dishes)
 
Lunches: our tour leader will offer you a picnic stop along the route. Our picnics combine a rich salad based on carbohydrates and fresh vegetables with cold meats and cheese, fresh fruit and bread (wherever possible from local producers) as well as sweet and savoury snacks.

If you do not want to stop for lunch, we can offer the following options:
— Our tour leader provides you with a picnic to carry along in a small backpack or a handlebar bag. It contains an individual salad (carbohydrate and vegetable based salad), cold meats, cheese and fruits 
—"Racing food" for weight weenies and those "allergic" to backpacks: energy bars, dried fruit
— Feel free to stop and eat when and where you want (restaurant, bakery, grocery store...) 
 
Please note: If you have any food intolerances, please inform us in the comments field on the booking form. 

Luggage transfer

During the day, you carry only a daypack with extra clothing, water, food, a camera, etc. The rest of your luggage is transferred each day to the following night's accommodation.

Itineraries

Hassle-free: This trip offers several route options with varying distances and elevation gain (Levels 2 and 3). Ride at your own pace and choose the option that best suits your fitness level, daily form, and preferences: 
— Route level 2: 710 km (441 miles) and 16,600 m (54,462 ft) of climbing.
— Route level 3: 950 km (590 miles) and 25,300 m (83,005 ft) of climbing.
 
Please refer to the itinerary for detailed information on daily distances and elevation gain.
 
NB: you will ride on mountain roads where traffic may be heavier in certain sections during the summer season. 

Group composition

Group size: 6 to 20 participants.
This trip is organized in collaboration with our partner.

International groups
Road cycling is a universal passion, shared by riders from many different backgrounds. The group may therefore include participants of various nationalities and languages, further enriching the human dimension of the journey. Meeting fellow cyclists who share the same passion - sometimes coming from far away - truly makes this a journey within the journey.

No French language skills are required: daily briefings are always conducted in both French and English by the support staff, ensuring that everyone can fully enjoy the experience.

Ce voyage est réalisé en collaboration avec nos partenaires.

What you need to know

Some departure dates in July 2026 may be subject to change due to the route of the Tour de France.
 
Daily schedule:
— During riding you carry only your day pack. All your luggage is transported each day by the support vehicle. 
— After breakfast, the support vehicle driver will pack your luggage in the van, distribute cereal/energy bars, and announce the time slot for lunch. The driver can also hand out picnics to any participants who do not wish to stop at the designated picnic lunch stop.
— Once all the participants have passed the picnic stop, the driver transports your luggage directly to the following nights accommodation, before returning to wait at the foot of the last climb of the day. He is then available to help any members of the group in difficulty or who encounter a mechanical problem. You'll usually meet the van driver several times during the day, offering the opportunity to fill up with water, change clothing, etc.
— Each participant is free to ride at his or her own pace, using the road book and GPS route to navigate during the day. However, the driver is equipped with a mobile phone, and can be reached at any time during the day if a participant encounters a problem. The driver is also available throughout the trip to provide information and advice.

Bikes

Depending on the option chosen:
— Using your own bike: if you bring your own bike, bike rental is not included in our services. You will ride with your personal road bike.

— Bike rental option: you may also choose to rent a road bike (please refer to the rates in the Services Plus section).
Different road bike categories are available, as well as an electric-assisted option:

  • Standard road bike:
Carbon frame and fork, disc brakes, Shimano Tiagra groupset, 10 speeds, 50/34 - 11/32, aluminium wheelset, model Scott Addict 50 or equivalent, roughly 9 kg.
  • Premium road bike:
Carbon frame and fork, disc brakes, Shimano 105 groupset, 12 Di2 speeds, 50/34 - 11/32, aluminium wheelset, model Scott Addict 40 or equivalent, roughly 8,9 kg.
  • Ultimate road bike:

Carbon frame and fork, disc brakes, Shimano 105 groupset, 12 Di2 speeds, 50/34 - 11/34, carbon Mavic or Syncros wheelset, model Scott Addict 30 or equivalent, roughly 8,4 kg.

  • Prestige road bike:

Carbon frame and fork, disc brakes, Shimano Dura Ace groupset, 12 Di2 speeds, 50/34 - 11/34, carbon wheelset, model Colnago V4RS or equivalent, roughly 7,1 kg.

  • E-road bike:

Carbon frame and fork, Shimano 105 groupset, 11 speeds, 50/34 - 11/32, aluminium wheelset, supplied
with 1 x 248Wh battery (+ 1 extra 210Wh battery), model Orbea Gain M30 or equivalent, roughly 13 kg.

Rental bike equipment (for all models): repair kit with 2 CO2 cartridges, patches, multi-tool, 1 inner tube, tyre levers and 2 bottle holders (except size 47 bicycles on which only one can be placed).
Helmets and water bottles: not included

Pedals and saddle height:
Unless otherwise specified, bikes are provided without pedals, allowing you to bring your own pedals, cleats, and cycling shoes. However, the following pedal types can be fitted at no extra cost:
— Look Keo Easy (entry-level Look system)
— Shimano SPD-SL (Shimano's road reference model)
— Shimano SPD MTB (Shimano's MTB reference model, also suitable for road cycling)

If you would like pedals to be installed, it is essential that you notify us clearly (specifying the model required) at the time of registration, or no later than two weeks before departure.

Please also indicate your saddle height on your registration form. This can be determined by:
— measuring the distance from the center of the bottom bracket to the top of your saddle on your own bike, or
— measuring your inseam and multiplying this value by 0.885.

Bike rental conditions:

On departure day, the support driver will hand over your rental bike. A bike inspection will be carried out together at the start of the trip and again at the end.

All consumable items related to the rental bike (tires, inner tubes, brake pads, cables) are included in the rental fee. Only parts or components damaged as a result of a crash or improper use will be charged. In the event of loss or theft of the bike, a fixed fee will apply.

Please remember to inform us of your bike category, pedal choice, and height when registering.

Currencies

France is part of the Euro zone. You may find ATMs easily in the main cities and towns.
Better to have cash in the most remote areas to purchase extras (ex.: for drinks). Huts do not always accept credit cards.
Exchange rate

 

Required before leaving

Formalities

American, Canadian, Australian and British Travellers

Visa Requirements

  • No visa is required for American, Canadian, British or Australian citizens for stays of up to 90 days within the Schengen Area (France, Italy and Switzerland included).

Passport Requirements
Travellers must hold a passport that:

  • is valid upon entry, and
  • remains valid for at least 3 months beyond the planned departure date from the Schengen Area.

It is strongly recommended to ensure a minimum of 6 months' validity prior to expiration to avoid potential boarding refusals by airlines.

Asian Travellers - Visa-Exempt Countries

The following nationalities may enter the Schengen Area for tourist stays of up to 90 days without a visa :
Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Taiwan, Hong Kong (HKSAR passport).

Entry conditions for these travellers are identical to those applicable to American or British nationals:

  • no visa required,
  • passport valid for at least 3 months beyond the planned departure date.

Asian Travellers - Visa-Required Countries

Travellers holding passports from China, India, Indonesia, the Philippines, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Pakistan, and other South and Southeast Asian countries must obtain a Schengen short-stay visa prior to travel, including for stays of less than 30 days.

  • Visa applications must be submitted to the relevant French, Swiss or Italian consular authorities in the traveller's country of residence. Processing times may vary.
  • Passports must be in good, undamaged condition (no tears, stains, staples, clips, or other alterations).
Important Notice:
The information above is provided for guidance only and may change according to decisions made by the French, Italian or Swiss authorities.
Please consult official sources before travelling. 

Health

Routine Vaccinations:
Travellers should ensure that their routine vaccinations are up to date, according to national guidelines :

  • Tetanus - diphtheria - pertussis (Tdap)
  • Measles - mumps - rubella (MMR)
  • Polio
  • Seasonal influenza
  • COVID-19

These vaccinations are generally recommended for all adults.

Altitude and Physical Effort
Our tours involves sustained daily effort and includes sections at moderate altitude. Travellers are advised to :

  • ensure they are in adequate physical condition,
  • consult a healthcare professional in case of medical conditions potentially affected by altitude or exertion,
  • bring all personal medication required for the entire duration of the trip.

Dentist and general physician:
We recommend a checkup with both before leaving on your trip.  

Food and Water Safety
In these area, tap water is safe to drink and hygiene standards are high.
Nonetheless:

  • wash hands regularly,
  • use a clean reusable water bottle,
  • avoid drinking untreated natural water sources without proper filtration or purification.

Getting ready

Physical fitness level 3

To take full advantage of your trip, make sure that you stay in good shape by walking or hiking least once per week (around 15km) on a trail with considerable vertical gain (250m/hr) or by participating in a moderately intense athletic activity for 1 to 1.5hrs.

Your first aid kit

It is recommended that you bring a small personal medical kit including your preferred painkillers, throat lozenges, plasters, strapping tape for blisters, etc. If you are taking regular medication you MUST bring those medicines with you PLUS an extra supply in case one pack is lost. If you have any allergies and/or take any medications, you MUST advise us when booking your trek! 

For the medication and pain relievers listed below, we recommend that you check with your doctor beforehand, adding what you need based on personal requirements and the specificity of your trip.

  • An analgesic.
  • An anti-inflammatory (pills or gels).
  • An anti-diarrheal tablets,
  • A disinfectant, band aids (several sizes), mole skin, sterile compresses, medical tape, Steri-Strips, non-stick bandages, and an elastic bandage.
  • An antiseptic.
  • Sunscreen and a burn cream.
  • Eye drops.
  • Other : survival blanket, scissors, 2 or 3 safety pins, a tick remover, a pair of latex gloves, earplugs.
  • Any personal medication.

Gear list

All your belongings should be divided into two bags: a backpack and a travel bag.

1/ Backpack or Small Bag (to be kept in the support vehicle or on the bike)
This is the bag you use every day while cycling. It is kept in the support vehicle (accessible during the lunch stop or carried along on the
bike (frame, seat or handlebar bag). This bag should not be too large (up to 15 litres).
It will contain: snack food, camera, waterproof and extra clothing, sunglasses, etc.

2/ Travel bag
This bag will be transported by vehicle from one accommodation to the next. It should contain all the items you won't need during the day.
You can expect to find it at your accommodation in the evening (generally not accessible during lunch).

For your head:
  • A cap or other head protection against the sun
  • A hat or sweat band
  • A bike helmet
For your upper body:
  • Two or more cycling jerseys (or technical t-shirts made of synthetic or natural breathable fabrics)
  • A warm and long cycling jersey or shirt; alternatively: arm warmers
  • A sweatsheart and t-shirts (for the evenings)
  • A wind & waterproof jacket
  • A pair of cycling gloves
For your legs:
  • Two or more good quality bib shorts with seat pad (chamois)
  • A pair of long and warm cycling tights or leg warmers
  • A casual short (for the evenings)
  • A swimsuit
  • For your feet
  • A pair of cycling shoes
  • A pair of shoes suitable for the evening
  • Sandals (not compulsory, but nice for warm evenings...)
  • Cycling socks
For your bike:
  • Adapted gearing: if in doubt ask us our your local cycle dealer
  • Bike lights with batteries (or charger)Document valid up to and including Thu Jan 15 2026
  • 2 spare tubes
  • Puncture repair kit or tubeless repair kit
  • Spare brake pads (except if you start with new pads)
  • Chain lube
  • A small pump
  • A multi tool
Other:
  • 2 bike bottles 75 cl (or camelbak)
  • A toiletry kit and towel
  • A bike lock (not compulsory)
  • A small individual pharmacy: sunscreen (face and lips); band aids + double skin (Compeed); Immodium; pain killers, earplugs, other personal medication 

Safety

The Mont Blanc Experience promise

No region in the world is 100% safe and without danger.

Mont Blanc Experience keeps you informed and is fully transparent when it comes to the potential risks. We gather security risk information from multiple sources: in-house research, monitoring specialized websites, meetings with the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, "safety and security" trips in the field, constant contact with our regional specialists, local teams on the ground, and France's travel agency federation.

Nevertheless, it is important to keep in mind that we cannot make any decisions for you.

If there is a clear and elevated risk, we reserve the right to:

— Reinforce our guide team (for guided trips).
— Modify the itinerary for our tours.
— Place a tour or destination on hiatus for an extended period of time when we consider the level of risk to be too high.

Your safety and your enjoyment are our priority.