We reunited in 2024 with one of our oldest and most loyal guests from California, whom we have known for more than 10 years. In fact, one of our very first tours was planned with them. Since then, whenever they can, they return with friends and family to enjoy cycling rides in different parts of Europe. This time, they discovered the beauty of the French Alps and climbed the peak of Mt. Veroux.
The 11-day trip began in Annecy and ended in Marseille, with the HC team providing airport transfers, guide and founder of HC bike tours Aigars, sag van driver Helena, professional photographer Maris, and extra driver Eszter to assist non-riders with faster transfers to the next destination.
The tour was a great success — we were lucky to have amazing weather, breathtaking landscapes, and stunning scenery in both the Alps and Provence. Along the way, we savored exceptional local and high-end cuisine, shared plenty of laughter and fun, enjoyed the best wines, and, of course, had more cheese than we could handle! By the end of the trip, our joke became, “No more cheese!” capturing the lighthearted spirit of the tour. 🙂
Our guests arrived a few days earlier in Lyon, so we kicked off the tour with a morning pickup from their hotels. After an hour-and-a-half transfer, we reached our destination near Lake Annecy. The afternoon was spent ensuring everyone was set up perfectly for the ride ahead with personalized bike fittings, followed by a relaxing warm-up ride to get into the groove.
With our Sarto Veneto SL bikes ready, we cruised around Lake Annecy, taking in the stunning views and smooth country lanes.
The first hotel, located near the lake, offered a peaceful spot to unwind after the day’s ride, complete with a stunning view of the water. And, of course, being in France, we couldn’t miss the chance to indulge in one of the country’s most famous traditions—cheese. Served in all its glorious forms, textures, and flavors, it was a dining experience like no other for our group, and the perfect way to end our first day.
On the second day in Annecy, cyclists tackled the Semnoz climb, while non-cyclists had the opportunity to explore Annecy and the surrounding area with our secondary van.
Over the next three days, our cycling adventure took us to the legendary Alpe d’Huez, where riders faced the famous 21 hairpin bends of the classic climb, followed by the challenging Col de Sarenne. The Alps’ stunning landscapes provided an unforgettable backdrop as cyclists conquered these iconic peaks. Non-riders enjoyed the village of Alpe d’Huez or relaxed in the van, soaking in the scenery. After a well-deserved rest day—either spent hiking through the mountains or simply relaxing—the cyclists tackled the Col du Galibier, one of the most scenic climbs in the Tour de France, before descending into the historic town of Briançon.
From Briançon, we set off on two epic climbs: the Col d’Izoard and Col du Vars. These long, challenging ascents were rewarded with breathtaking alpine scenery that kept everyone motivated.
The day after these climbs, a well-deserved rest day allowed us to recharge. The HC team packed up the bikes and luggage, and we made our way out of the Alps for a scenic three-hour drive to the sunny region of Provence. In Provence, everyone had the chance to relax or explore the charming town and its peaceful surroundings.
The following day, it was time for the big challenge: Mount Ventoux. Known as one of the most legendary climbs in the Tour de France, Ventoux’s exposed slopes and unpredictable winds made for a tough yet unforgettable ride. While cyclists tackled the ascent, non-riders could explore the village, enjoy the stunning views, or take part in another excursion organized by the HC team.
Finally, we wrapped up the adventure with a drive to Marseille airport, marking the end of an unforgettable journey through the French Alps and Provence. Once again, it was an experience we’ll always cherish, shared with our wonderful guests and friends.
Our 11-day all-inclusive tour provided everything from airport transfers, comfortable accommodations, and dinner reservations to on-road support and guidance, extra van for non riders and professional photographer. Our dedicated team ensured a seamless experience, allowing our guests to focus solely on their cycling adventure.
When your on tour with HC Bike Tours it is not just a bike trip – it’s an exploration of the heart of cycling, a journey through some of the most iconic landscapes Europe has to offer.
Let us help you plan and experience your next custom and private European cycling adventure whether it’s the magic of the French Pyrenees or any other cycling destination in Europe – with HC Bike Tours everything is possible!
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Introducing Eszter Kiss | Tour Coordinator | HC TEAM
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