BikeBiz Bicycle and cycling retail news
Cycle tourism firm Velo Vercors has announced the introduction of Al d’Huez self guided tours – a package that allows two or more cyclists to follow the tracks of Armstrong, Merckx and many others that have battled the 600km route and 22,000m of ascent.
Run by ex-pro cyclist Roger Dunne and partner Teresa, the pair have taken their experience of the region and handpicked a number of hotels and B&Bs, local cuisine and fine wines from the region to share with guests.
Targetted at ‘seasoned athletes’, trips start from £850 (based on two sharing) and the price includes all accommodation, breakfast and evening meals, transfer to and from Valence TGV, detailed maps for each day and transfer of luggage to each new destination.
According to the firm: "The tour combines gruelling climbs with exhilarating descents and includes the iconic Tour climbs of Col de la Croix de Fer, Col du Galibier and Alp d’Huez as well as the gentler inclines in the Vercors and flatter landscape of the Drôme. It’s been carefully planned to follow low-traffic routes with spectacular Alpine scenery, from gorges and waterfalls to walnut groves and vineyards, and incorporates historical sites and an array of local wildlife."
Velo Vercors can be reached by Eurostar and TGV (St Pancras International to Valence) by plane (Lyon or Grenoble airports) or by car.
Bikes travel free on Eurostar and TGV in soft bike bags.
The ‘Alp d’Huez Self-guided Tour’ is running on the following dates in 2012:
Arrive Sat 25th August – Depart Sun 2nd Sept
Arrive Sat 15th September – Depart Monday 23rd September
Velo Vercors: +33 (0)4 75 71 35 50
