Discover Haute-Savoie's alpine cycling, home of Tour de France: from vibrant Annecy lake to charming Chamonix, exploring winding roads and picturesque trails. - Learn more

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Cycling Haute-Savoie

Cycling in Haute-Savoie offers a thrilling mix of challenging terrain and stunning landscapes, a paradise for enthusiasts. Nestled in the French Alps, it features iconic climbs like Col de la Colombière and Col de Joux-Plane, catering to all skill levels. Brace for demanding ascents and exhilarating descents on well-maintained roads through alpine scenery, villages, and lakeshores.
Panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and serene lakes unfold, with Mont Blanc dominating the skyline.

The Aravis range's big passes showcase this beauty. Haute-Savoie's charm extends to quaint villages and dense forests, enhancing the cycling experience.
Renowned for challenging climbs, Col du Grand Colombier and Col de la Forclaz test seasoned riders. Yet, there are also gentler routes along lakeshores, especially in Annecy valleys, appealing to cyclists of varying skill levels.

Gravel in Haute-Savoie

Embark on a thrilling cycling adventure in Haute-Savoie, offering a unique alternative to traditional alpine routes. The diverse terrain includes challenging ascents and exhilarating descents on well-maintained gravel paths amidst stunning alpine landscapes. Traverse alpine balcony roads, trails, forests, and high-altitude roads seamlessly connect valleys.

Gravel routes pass through charming alpine villages, providing a taste of local culture and cuisine, especially for cheese lovers. The difficulty ranges from moderate to strenuous, catering to those seeking a physical challenge. Be prepared for changing weather conditions and equip yourself with a sturdy gravel bike (40mm+ wide tires) for diverse surfaces.

In summary, Haute-Savoie's gravel cycling delivers a challenging yet rewarding experience and is an alternative to the classic road, jumping from one valley to another without extensive mileage. Preparedness, technical skill, and an appreciation for natural beauty are vital for maximising enjoyment in this alpine gravel playground.

Spots to ride

Planning your cycling trip

2. Choosing when to book:

Haute-Savoie in Summer

Summer in Haute-Savoie, especially in August, is a cyclist's paradise. The weather is perfect, with temperatures ranging from 20 to 35 degrees Celsius. The clear skies and warm sun create an ideal setting for cyclists tackling the challenging yet beautifully scenic mountainous terrain; also perfect to enjoy the alpine lake like Annecy or Aix-les-Bains. I like to climb to higher altitudes at this time of year, above 1500m, to take advantage of the cooler temperatures.

Best website for weather reports?
meteofrance.com

Summer Road Conditions

Summer road conditions in Haute-Savoie may feature moderate traffic, especially around popular tourist destinations like Lake Annecy and big passes. Cyclists should watch for congested roads, be aware of vehicles, and navigate smoothly. Peak period is July to August.

Best website for road reports?
inforoute74.fr

Travelling in Summer

Find Alps-view lodgings from budget to luxe in Haute-Savoie's summer cycling haven. Book early; August is priciest. Explore the mid-altitude mountain range for affordable stays, avoiding costly Annecy. Lots of bike rental options in the major cities.

Best local airport?
gva.ch

3. Know who to speak with:

Always speak with a local expert BEFORE booking your trip. Valuable local knowledge will ensure you get the most out of your cycling holiday.



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More spots for cyclists

Around Haute-Savoie
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