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This content featured in Cycling Routes

Les 2 Alpes to Alpe d'Huez via Lac du Chambon

A route that includes the iconic Alpe d'Huez's 21 hairpin bends

Location
Les Deux Alpes
Imprint
Updated

Challenging loop of between 80km to 90km with the famed Alpe d'Huez climb.

Les 2 Alpes - Lac du Chambon - Alpe d'Huez loop

This route links two of the most famous cycling bases in the Alps - Les 2 Alpes and Alpe d'Huez - by descending into the Oisans valley, looping through Bourg d'Oisans, and climbing the legendary 21 bends. A classic Tour de France experience with varied terrain and stunning scenery.

From Les 2 Alpes

Distance: 85km to 90km
Elevation gain: around 2,000m
Average gradient: 8.2% (but steeper in sections)

Route description:

  • descent from Les 2 Alpes to Lac du Chambon is fast and winding on the D213 that brings you to the dam - it can be steep and is shaded in the morning so take care
  • join the D1091 west towards Bourg d'Oisans - a relatively flat stretch that's a good warm-up before the big climb
  • the 21 bends climb begins in Bourg d'OIsans and is a relentless climb to Alpe d'Huez (1,860m)
  • the bends are all numbered and named after past Tour de France winners, with the earliest ones being the steepest (around 10%) before easing after bend six.
  • you can descend the same way or take the quieter alternative route via Villard-Reculas
  • the final ascent back up to Les 2 Alpes is via the D213, a bit tough after such a big day but it's steady

 

Tip:
take a breather in the village of Huez (around bend six or seven) - there's a fountain and a café

Cycle hire

Bike Hire in Les 2 Alpes

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What to see

Route highlights

  • the Alpe d'Huez climb with its rich Tour de France history
  • views over Lac du Chambon
  • the quiet sections through forests and alpine villages
  • mix of climbs and descents

Sights in Les 2 Alpes

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Where to lunch

Restaurants in Les Deux Alpes

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What to do

Things To Do in Les Deux Alpes

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Latest News & Reviews

Find out all about what is happening in Les Deux Alpes and how to make the most of your time here. The latest news, reviews of fun activities, current events and the trendiest restaurants, as well as interviews with leading locals, insider's guides and our top choices for things to do, see, and experience in the valley. Plus, during the winter season, our famous snow reports and dump alerts all in the same place.

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Upcoming Events

In winter the resort is host to a number of international festivals and skiing events. The Rise Festival just before Christmas features big name bands and DJs, while other big winter events include the Mad Snow Race in January. In the summer, snow camps and freestyle ski competitions take place on the glacier, while the legendary mountain bike race, the Mountain of Hell, takes place at the end of June.

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