The Alps 1000 Challenge !

Another cycling trip of a lifetime.

... 1000 miles

... 100,000 feet

... 12 days of riding

... + 2 rest days ...

... June 17 to July 2 - 2024

Stage 12 The final stage back to Vence.

The Alps 1000 mile Challenge

1000 mi. -  100,000 ft. -  12 stages

Stage 1: The Final Stage.

A "topo-map" view of stage 12.

And the corresponding profile of stage 12.

The "topo-map" view of stage 1 provides a good perspective of the route in relationship to the high mountains and the footshills. As you can see the route for stage 1 meanders in the foothills. The profile shows clearly the up and down nature of the day. It's a punchy ride that I once described as a day of "rollers." The riders let me know "rollers" is way off the mark, ha! Basically we go from sea level up to 1400 feet. Every day and every ride on this tour is unique and challenging.

Stats for Stage 1.
Stage
 Stage start/finish
# of Mtn. passes
Mileage
Elevation gain
Ride time
12.
 Castallane - Vence
Small Climbs
84 mi.
5000 ft.
 5.5 hrs

Even the smaller roads are well paved. Stage1, Basque region foothills

The Pyrenees are beautiful and offer what I consider the best cycling in the world. Sure there are other spectacular places to ride, but I'd argue that there isn't anywhere better.

Even the smaller roads are well paved. Stage1, Basque region foothills

The Pyrenees are beautiful and offer what I consider the best cycling in the world. Sure there are other spectacular places to ride, but I'd argue that there isn't anywhere better.

Overview of the first 4 stages of the tour, from Vence (on the Mediterranean Coast) to Bourg d'Oisan (base of the Alps d'Huez in the high mountains).  Day 1 ends in the high mountains, and the next 3 stages are all in the high mountains.

Overview of stages 4-8 of the tour.

Overview of the last 4 stages of the tour.  Stage 10 is a long day to transition from the high mountains down the gorge de Verdon.  Stage 11 is a loop around the beauiful gorge de Verdon.