The ascent to Alpe d'Huez has defined careers and destroyed dreams. When the Tour de France first climbed these slopes in 1952, won by Fausto Coppi, it immediately became the race's most anticipated stage. The climb's accessibility from Bourg d'Oisans, combined with its relentless gradient and the spectacle of 21 numbered hairpins, creates an amphitheater unlike any other in professional cycling.

For amateur cyclists, Alpe d'Huez represents both aspiration and intimidation. The steady 7.9% average gradient offers no respite, while sections hit 13% between the hairpins. Yet the clear progression through numbered bends provides psychological waypoints, and the summit rewards with sweeping views across the Oisans valley. This is a climb that demands respect but welcomes all riders willing to commit to the challenge.

Beyond the famous ascent, the region surrounding Alpe d'Huez offers exceptional cycling across multiple terrains. The Col de Sarenne provides a dramatic back route over the mountain. The nearby Cols du Glandon and de la Croix de Fer rank among the Alps' finest climbs. And the Oisans valley floor offers gentler routes for recovery days or warming up before tackling the big ascents.

The Climb - 21 Hairpins🔗

The ascent begins unassumingly in Bourg d'Oisans at 720m elevation. From the moment you turn left off the D1091 onto the D211, the gradient announces its intentions. You'll climb 1,071 vertical meters over 13.8km (8.6 miles) to reach the resort at 1,850m. The average gradient of 7.9% conceals the true difficulty—between the hairpins, ramps regularly exceed 10% and touch 13% on the steepest sections.

Route Profile🔗

Distance: 13.8km (8.6 miles)

Elevation Gain: 1,071m (3,514 feet)

Average Gradient: 7.9%

Maximum Gradient: 13%

Start: Bourg d'Oisans (720m)

Summit: Alpe d'Huez Resort (1,850m)

Surface: Excellent asphalt throughout

Traffic: Moderate to heavy, especially summer weekends and Tour de France periods

The climb divides roughly into thirds. The opening kilometers from the base to hairpin 15 establish the rhythm at 8-9%. The middle section from hairpins 15 to 7 features the steepest gradients, with several ramps at 11-13% that test your pacing. The final third from hairpin 7 to the summit eases slightly to 7-8% but fatigue makes these final kilometers feel no easier.

Hairpin by Hairpin - Notable Bends🔗

Each of the 21 hairpins bears a sign commemorating a Tour de France stage winner. The countdown from 21 at the bottom to 1 at the top creates a unique psychological progression—ticking off each bend provides motivation as you ascend. Several hairpins hold particular significance:

Hairpin 21 (Coppi): The first bend, named for Fausto Coppi who won the inaugural Alpe d'Huez stage in 1952. The gradient immediately hits 8-9% as you leave Bourg d'Oisans, setting the tone for the entire ascent.

Hairpin 7 (Rasmussen/Dutch Corner): The most famous bend in cycling. Dutch Corner erupts during the Tour with thousands of orange-clad fans creating an impenetrable wall of noise. The gradient before this bend hits 10-11%, and the atmosphere during Tour years is unmatched anywhere in the sport. Outside Tour periods, it's a quieter landmark at roughly two-thirds distance up the climb.

Hairpin 1 (Lance Armstrong): [VERIFY: Current status of Armstrong signage - may have been removed or replaced]. The final hairpin before the last straight kilometer into the resort. By this point, you've climbed over 1,000m, and the finish feels tantalizingly close yet remains a stern test.

Other commemorated riders include Hinault (won twice), Pantani (set the record in 1997 at 37:35), and more recent victors like Carlos Sastre, Andy Schleck, and Geraint Thomas. Reading each sign as you pass provides a brief mental respite from the effort required.

Pacing Strategy🔗

The key to Alpe d'Huez is restraint. The consistent gradient with no flat sections means every effort is cumulative, and going too hard in the first half guarantees suffering in the second. Professional climbers average around 38-40 minutes; competitive amateurs might target 50-70 minutes; recreational riders should expect 70-120 minutes depending on fitness.

First Third (Hairpins 21-15): Start conservatively. The gradient is steady at 8-9%, and the temptation to ride too hard on fresh legs is strong. Use these first kilometers to establish a sustainable rhythm. Find a gear where you can maintain a conversation (even if only with yourself). Watch your heart rate—if it's redlining this early, you'll pay dearly later.

Middle Third (Hairpins 15-7): The crux. Between hairpins 12 and 8, the gradient frequently hits 11-13%. These ramps are short but vicious. Don't fight them—shift down and accept the slower pace. The hairpins themselves offer brief respite at 5-6% as you swing through the turn. Use these moments to grab a drink or shake out your legs. Dutch Corner (hairpin 7) marks the psychological midpoint, even though you're past halfway on distance.

Final Third (Hairpins 7-1 and Summit): The gradient eases marginally to 7-8%, but accumulated fatigue means you won't feel it. After hairpin 1, the road straightens for the final kilometer through the resort. Buildings appear on both sides, and the summit sign finally emerges. This last kilometer feels interminable—resist the urge to sprint. Pace steadily to the official finish at the church in the town center.

Tip: Count down the hairpins as motivation, but don't get fixated on your time. Ride your own pace, especially if it's your first attempt. You can always return faster—the achievement is reaching the summit, regardless of duration.

Other Climbs in the Region🔗

While Alpe d'Huez dominates the region's cycling identity, the surrounding Oisans valley contains several exceptional climbs. These range from the dramatic Col de Sarenne descending (or ascending) from Alpe d'Huez's backside, to the massive Cols du Glandon and de la Croix de Fer to the north. Each offers distinct character and challenges.

Col de Sarenne (1,999m)🔗

The Col de Sarenne provides Alpe d'Huez's secret back route. From the resort, the road climbs an additional 6.9km at 5.7% average to reach 1,999m—higher than the famous ascent. The narrow, exposed road traverses steep mountainside with dramatic drops and sweeping views.

The descent toward Clavans-le-Haut and the valley is spectacular but technical. The upper section features rough asphalt with gravel patches and tight switchbacks. This isn't a descent for nervous descenders or in wet conditions. The Tour de France has used Sarenne occasionally, most memorably in 2013 when riders faced treacherous conditions on the unpaved sections.

As a loop from Bourg d'Oisans, the Alpe d'Huez-Sarenne-Clavans-Bourg circuit covers roughly 60km with 2,100m of climbing—a magnificent day's riding combining the famous ascent with genuine Alpine remoteness on the Sarenne side.

Note: Check road conditions before attempting Sarenne. The col closes in winter (typically November-May) and after storms. Road surface on the descent varies from excellent to rough—descend cautiously.

Col du Glandon (1,924m)🔗

The Col du Glandon ranks among the Alps' most demanding ascents. From the Bourg d'Oisans side, the climb measures 21.6km at 6.9% average, gaining 1,490m. The gradient remains relatively steady through the valley floor before steepening to 8-9% in the upper sections through tight switchbacks in the forest.

Glandon sees far less traffic than Alpe d'Huez, offering a more wilderness experience. The summit area opens to expansive alpine meadows with views across multiple valleys. The descent toward Saint-Etienne-de-Cuines is fast and flowing—one of the finest in the region.

The Glandon frequently appears in the Tour de France and Critérium du Dauphiné, often paired with the Croix de Fer via the connecting D926. This combination creates an epic day for amateur riders based in the Oisans valley.

Col de la Croix de Fer (2,067m)🔗

The Croix de Fer connects to the Glandon via a 7km traverse from the Glandon summit. From the Bourg d'Oisans direction, riders typically ascend the Glandon, then continue to Croix de Fer, creating a 28.6km ascent gaining 1,634m total.

The connecting section between cols features moderate gradients of 4-5% through stunning high-mountain scenery. The actual Col de la Croix de Fer summit sits at 2,067m—one of the highest paved passes in the French Alps. A large iron cross marks the summit, giving the col its name (Cross of Iron).

From Croix de Fer, you can descend either side: north toward Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne (29km descent), or south back toward Bourg d'Oisans via the Glandon. The northern descent is longer and more gradual, dropping through ski stations and mountain villages.

Col d'Ornon (1,367m)🔗

The Col d'Ornon offers a gentler alternative to the region's giants. From Bourg d'Oisans, the climb measures 15.4km at 4.2% average, gaining 647m. The gradient rarely exceeds 6%, making this an accessible climb for less experienced riders or recovery days.

The route follows the Romanche valley eastward toward Grenoble, passing through pleasant Alpine villages. The col's modest elevation and gradient shouldn't suggest mediocrity—the scenery remains spectacular, and the descent toward Grenoble is fast and scenic. This makes Ornon ideal for warm-ups before tackling Alpe d'Huez or Glandon, or for easier loop options combined with valley riding.

Classic Routes🔗

The region's cols combine into memorable loops and point-to-point routes. These range from single-col efforts to epic multi-mountain days requiring excellent fitness and preparation. Base yourself in Bourg d'Oisans for easy access to all major climbs.

Alpe d'Huez + Sarenne Loop🔗

Distance: 60km | Elevation: 2,100m | Time: 4-6 hours

Start in Bourg d'Oisans and ascend Alpe d'Huez via the classic 21-hairpin route. From the resort, continue climbing to the Col de Sarenne (6.9km, 5.7%). Descend the technical backside to Clavans-le-Haut, then follow the valley road north to Rochetaillée and west back to Bourg d'Oisans via Villard-Notre-Dame.

This loop delivers the quintessential Alpe d'Huez experience while adding genuine Alpine exploration on the Sarenne descent. The technical nature of Sarenne's descent means you should be confident in bike handling. Check weather and road conditions before committing—this isn't a route for rain or high winds.

Café Stop: Summit of Alpe d'Huez has multiple cafés. Grab food and drinks here before continuing to Sarenne—there are no services on the backside until you reach Clavans.

Glandon-Croix de Fer Epic🔗

Distance: 100km+ | Elevation: 2,800m+ | Time: 6-8 hours

This challenging loop combines two massive climbs in a single day. From Bourg d'Oisans, ascend the Col du Glandon (21.6km, 1,490m gain). Continue from Glandon's summit to Col de la Croix de Fer (7km traverse, additional 144m gain). Descend north toward Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne, then tackle the Col du Télégraphe (11.7km, 884m) and potentially Col du Galibier (8.5km from Télégraphe summit, 894m) before descending back to the Oisans valley.

[VERIFY: Exact routing from Croix de Fer to create a loop back to Bourg d'Oisans—multiple options exist depending on whether you include Galibier or return via alternative passes]

This represents a serious day's riding requiring excellent fitness, proper nutrition planning, and early starts (begin by 7am in summer). The rewards are exceptional—you'll ride some of cycling's most storied climbs with minimal traffic and stunning scenery throughout.

Bourg d'Oisans Valley Rides🔗

Distance: 40-70km | Elevation: 300-800m | Time: 2-4 hours

The Romanche and Eau d'Olle valleys provide gentler riding options. From Bourg d'Oisans, ride west toward Grenoble along the D1091 through gorges and tunnels (note: this road can be busy—early morning riding recommended). Alternatively, head east toward Briançon through the Route de la Bérarde or up the Vénéon valley toward the Écrins National Park.

These routes work well for recovery days between big climbs, warm-up rides before attempting Alpe d'Huez, or for less experienced riders building fitness. The valleys offer stunning Alpine scenery without the relentless climbing of the major cols.

When to Visit🔗

The Alpe d'Huez cycling season runs from late May through September, with July and August offering the most reliable weather but also the heaviest crowds. Your ideal timing depends on whether you seek the Tour de France atmosphere or prefer quieter roads.

June: Early season with lighter traffic and mild temperatures (15-20°C valley, 8-15°C summit). The Critérium du Dauphiné often visits the region in early June, bringing professional racing atmosphere. Higher cols like Glandon and Croix de Fer may still have snow at the very start of June. Roads are generally clear by mid-June.

July: Peak season coinciding with the Tour de France. If the Tour visits Alpe d'Huez (it doesn't come every year), expect massive crowds, road closures, and an electric atmosphere. The climb becomes a festival, particularly at Dutch Corner. If you want this experience, book accommodation months in advance and arrive very early on stage day—the road closes to vehicles many hours before the race.

In non-Tour years or weeks, July offers excellent conditions (18-25°C valley, 12-18°C summit) with long daylight hours for big rides. Expect moderate to heavy traffic, especially weekends. Temperatures can exceed 30°C in the valley during heatwaves—start your climbs early in such conditions.

August: Similar conditions to July but slightly quieter as Tour fever subsides. Still busy with summer tourists. Weather remains stable with warm temperatures. This is an excellent month for those seeking good weather without Tour crowds. The L'Étape du Tour (amateur event replicating a Tour stage) sometimes includes Alpe d'Huez—check dates if you want to participate or avoid the associated road closures.

September: Shoulder season offering a sweet spot for many cyclists. Temperatures cool (12-20°C valley, 6-12°C summit), crowds thin dramatically, and autumn colors begin appearing. Weather becomes more variable with increased chance of rain and early-season snow at higher elevations. By late September, high cols may close. Check col status before planning routes. The quieter roads and pleasant temperatures make September ideal for serious riding without summer crowds.

Early Morning Advantage: Regardless of season, start your Alpe d'Huez ascent early (6-8am). You'll avoid traffic, escape afternoon heat, experience magical light in the mountains, and have the hairpins largely to yourself. The psychological benefit of quieter roads shouldn't be underestimated on such a demanding climb.

Where to Stay🔗

The choice between staying in Alpe d'Huez resort or Bourg d'Oisans valley town shapes your entire experience. Both have merits depending on your priorities and budget.

Bourg d'Oisans (Recommended for Most Cyclists)

Bourg d'Oisans sits at the base of Alpe d'Huez at 720m elevation. This compact valley town serves as the cycling hub for the region, offering better value accommodation, more dining options, and easy access to all major climbs. Starting your Alpe d'Huez ascent from Bourg gives you the full experience from the official start.

Look for hotels or gîtes advertising as "cyclist-friendly" or "vélo-bienvenue." These typically provide secure bike storage, early breakfast for morning departures, route advice, and sometimes bike wash facilities. The town has several bike shops for repairs, rentals, or last-minute supplies.

[IMAGE: Bourg d'Oisans town center with cyclists preparing bikes, mountains visible in background]

Alpe d'Huez Resort

Staying at the summit (1,850m) puts you in the heart of the resort with immediate access to the Col de Sarenne and high mountain terrain. The altitude can aid acclimatization if you're planning multiple high-col days. However, accommodation tends to be more expensive, dining options more limited, and you'll miss riding the famous 21-hairpin ascent unless you descend and re-climb.

The resort caters primarily to skiers, so summer sees reduced services. Some hotels close entirely outside ski season. If staying at altitude appeals, book well ahead and confirm the property is open during your dates. The benefit is waking to stunning Alpine views and cooler temperatures.

Practical Tip: If staying in Bourg d'Oisans for multiple days, consider riding up to Alpe d'Huez for lunch at least once. Several cafés and restaurants at the summit offer good food with spectacular terrace views—a perfect recovery activity after a rest day or lighter morning ride.

Practical Information🔗

Getting There🔗

By Air: Grenoble-Isère Airport (GNB) sits 70km from Bourg d'Oisans, offering the closest access. The airport operates seasonal flights, primarily serving ski season with reduced summer service. Lyon-Saint-Exupéry Airport (LYS), 140km away, provides more flight options year-round from major European cities. Geneva Airport (GVA), 170km distant, offers the most extensive international connections.

From airports, arrange private transfers (many companies cater to cyclists with bike-compatible vehicles), rent a car, or use combination bus/train services to Grenoble, then local bus to Bourg d'Oisans.

By Train: Grenoble serves as the main rail hub, connected to Paris (3 hours by TGV), Lyon (90 minutes), and other major French cities. From Grenoble station, regular buses run to Bourg d'Oisans (approximately 90 minutes). Check current schedules as frequency varies by season.

[VERIFY: Current bus operator and schedule frequency from Grenoble to Bourg d'Oisans]

By Car: Driving offers the most flexibility for exploring multiple climbs. From Grenoble, take the D1091 southeast through the spectacular Romanche gorge (note tunnel sections). The drive takes approximately 60 minutes. From Lyon, allow 2 hours via the A480 and D1091. Parking in Bourg d'Oisans is generally straightforward; secure garage parking is available at most hotels.

The Start at Bourg d'Oisans🔗

The official Alpe d'Huez ascent begins at the roundabout in Bourg d'Oisans where you turn left from the D1091 onto the D211. A large sign marks the start, and you'll see the Alpe d'Huez resort visible high on the mountainside to your left—a daunting sight that gives perspective on the climb ahead.

Several cafés near the roundabout serve pre-climb breakfast and coffee. Fill water bottles before departing—while there are fountains at some hairpins, it's best to start fully prepared. Public toilets are available in the town center near the tourist office.

Bike shops in Bourg d'Oisans include [VERIFY: Current bike shop names and locations]. These provide rentals, repairs, and supplies. If you need mechanical assistance, sort it before starting the climb rather than hoping for help at altitude.

Summit Facilities🔗

The Alpe d'Huez resort offers full services at the summit. Multiple cafés, restaurants, and bars line the main street through town. The official finish of the climb is at the church (Église Notre Dame des Neiges) in the town center, marked by a sign showing elevation and distance climbed. This is where you'll see most cyclists stopping for photos.

Public toilets are available near the church and at various points through the resort. Water fountains can be found throughout town. Several supermarkets sell supplies if you're continuing to Col de Sarenne or need provisions.

The resort sits at 1,850m elevation, so temperatures will be significantly cooler than the valley. Even on warm summer days, bring an extra layer for the descent—20°C in Bourg d'Oisans might be 12°C at the summit with windchill. After spending 60-90 minutes climbing in full sun, you'll cool rapidly once stopped.

Timing Your Climb🔗

Early morning starts (6-8am) provide the best experience. The road sees minimal traffic, temperatures remain comfortable, and the light is beautiful. The psychological benefit of quieter roads on such a demanding climb cannot be overstated. Morning ascents also leave your afternoon free for recovery, exploring Bourg d'Oisans, or tackling a second ride if you're particularly ambitious.

Avoid afternoon climbs in July-August when temperatures peak and traffic is heaviest. The combination of heat, exhaust fumes from cars and motorcycles, and crowds diminishes the experience. If you must climb in afternoon, go later (after 5pm) when traffic begins to ease.

Professional climbers complete Alpe d'Huez in 37-42 minutes. Competitive amateurs might target 50-70 minutes. Recreational riders typically take 70-120 minutes depending on fitness level. There's no shame in slower times—the achievement is reaching the summit, and every rider who completes the 21 hairpins joins the same tradition regardless of duration.

Final Advice: Bring a camera or ensure your phone is charged. The views from the hairpins, particularly looking back down at Bourg d'Oisans and across the Oisans valley, are spectacular. The summit church makes a memorable photo. Most importantly, pace yourself conservatively—Alpe d'Huez rewards respect and punishes hubris. Enjoy the experience of climbing cycling's most iconic ascent.