Cycling climbs and routes around Alpe d'Huez

Alpe d'Huez and the Oisans are among the most iconic cycling destinations in the French Alps. From Bourg d'Oisans, Vieil Alpe or the roads around the resort, you can ride legendary climbs such as the 21 bends of Alpe d'Huez, the Col de Sarenne, the Col du Glandon, the Croix de Fer, the Lautaret and the Galibier.

This guide helps you choose the right route according to your level, your time, the weather and the type of bike you want to ride. At Altitude Sports Vieil Alpe, our team can also help you choose the right road bike before your ride.

Route advice, Giant carbon road bike rental, electric road bike option, shop advice and online booking in Alpe d'Huez.

21 bends Col de Sarenne Glandon Croix de Fer Galibier

The 21 bends of Alpe d'Huez

The Oisans classic Approx. 13.8 km climb Approx. 7.9 percent average

The 21 bends of Alpe d'Huez are one of the most famous climbs in cycling. Starting from Bourg d'Oisans, the ascent requires steady pacing, a good gear ratio and patience, especially in the first steep kilometres.

For a first climb, we recommend a comfortable endurance road bike such as a Giant Defy. For a more performance-oriented experience, a premium or race bike will give you more lightness and efficiency.

• Best for: first big climb, personal challenge, iconic cycling memory.
• Recommended bike: Discovery or Performance Accessible.
• Tip: do not start too fast; the first kilometres are the toughest.

Col de Sarenne and Balcons d'Auris

Wild and scenic Approx. 57 km Approx. 1,978 m elevation gain

The Col de Sarenne offers a wilder and more Alpine atmosphere, with impressive landscapes and a real mountain feel. The loop via the Balcons d'Auris is beautiful, but it requires attention: more isolated roads, changing weather and technical descents depending on conditions.

For this route, choose a reliable and comfortable road bike with good braking and tyres suited to mountain roads. The Performance Accessible and Summit Premium ranges are especially well suited.

• Best for: regular cyclists, Alpine landscapes, a more committed ride.
• Recommended bike: Performance Accessible or Summit Premium.
• Plan ahead: stable weather, light jacket, care on descents.

Col du Glandon and Croix de Fer

Big Alpine ride Approx. 80 km return Approx. 2,086 m elevation gain

Glandon and Croix de Fer are major objectives for cyclists looking for a true mountain day. From Bourg d'Oisans, the route heads towards Allemond, Lac du Verney, Rivier d'Allemond, Grand Maison and then the Croix de Fer.

For this type of ride, comfort over distance becomes essential. A light, stable bike with appropriate gearing and a good riding position will help you manage the accumulated kilometres and elevation gain.

• Best for: trained cyclists, long rides, high elevation gain.
• Recommended bike: Summit Premium or Race Experience.
• Plan ahead: nutrition, water, weather, wind jacket and pacing.

Lautaret and Galibier

High mountain objective Approx. 96 km return Approx. 1,900 m elevation gain

Lautaret and Galibier are among the most iconic Alpine cycling routes. They are long rides, generally reserved for well-prepared cyclists, with endurance, altitude and mountain weather to manage.

For these routes, choose a performance bike that remains comfortable and stable. The right setup helps you stay efficient on long climbs and confident on descents.

• Best for: experienced cyclists, endurance, high mountain climbs.
• Recommended bike: Summit Premium or Race Experience.
• Plan ahead: early start, suitable clothing, visibility in tunnels, weather check.

Rent a road bike for your cycling route

At Altitude Sports Vieil Alpe, we offer Giant carbon road bikes for the 21 bends, Bourg d'Oisans and the Oisans climbs. You can also choose an electric road bike if you want more support on the climbs.

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Frequently asked questions about cycling routes around Alpe d'Huez

Which route should I choose for a first cycling climb in Alpe d'Huez?

For a first experience, the 21 bends of Alpe d'Huez are the most iconic route. With a suitable bike, good gearing and steady pacing, it is an achievable challenge for many cyclists.

Which bike should I rent for the Oisans climbs?

For long rides and major climbs, we recommend a comfortable and light carbon road bike with suitable gearing. For the most demanding routes, the Summit Premium and Race Experience ranges are the best options.

Is Sarenne harder than the 21 bends?

Sarenne is not only a climb. It is often a wilder and more isolated route, with a descent that requires attention. The difficulty depends on the loop, the weather and your experience.

Should I book my bike before arrival?

Yes, booking is recommended, especially during the summer, cycling events and busy periods in Alpe d'Huez and Bourg d'Oisans.

Can I ask for advice about routes in store?

Yes, our team can help you choose a route according to your level, the weather, your available time and the kind of ride you want to experience.

Mountain cycling routes require preparation. Before you ride, check your fitness level, the weather, road conditions, climb openings and your equipment.

Altitude Sports Vieil Alpe • 1235 Place Joseph Paganon, 38750 Huez • +33 4 76 80 49 76