Alpe d'Huez, the mythical climb

Want to relive the moments of euphoria on this mythical stage of the Tour de France?
From Bourg d'Oisans, the climb has an incline of 7.9% over a total length of 13.8 km. No one has ever beaten Marco Pantani’s impressive record of 37’35’’.

This route is available on the "Vélo en Oisans" map (Oisans Tourisme)

Start/Finish: Bourg d'Oisans 720 m
Duration: 2 hours
Distance (round trip): 31 km
Maximum elevation: 1,850 m
Minimum elevation: 720 m
Elevation gain: 1,266 m
Maximum gradient: 15%

Map: Michelin Isère and Savoie Department Map No. 333

ROUTE
Start in front of the Bourg d’Oisans tourist office.
From Bourg d’Oisans, head toward L’Alpe d’Huez. Enjoy a short kilometer of flat terrain before tackling the famous 21 turns.
The start is very tough, with sections as steep as 12%. Be sure to pace yourself carefully during these first two or three kilometers. From Huez onward, 6 km from the finish, it becomes easier to find your rhythm.
When you reach Alpe d’Huez, head toward the “Office de Tourisme,” then follow the signs for the “Tour de France Route” to the official finish line at the top of Avenue du Rif Nel (above the Étendard roundabout).

BONUS: Lake Besson
You can continue up the Alpe d’Huez climb to Lake Besson.

Distance (round trip): 8 km
Duration: 25 min
Elevation gain: 232 m

The Tour de France
Unique and magical—thanks to its route, its numbered turns, and its slopes lined with spectators—the “Alpe climb,” as it’s affectionately known, has become a mecca for cycling. On the day of the Tour, a sea of people lines the 14 km climb. The climb up Alpe d’Huez has become a legend.