Les 2 Alpes to Alpe d'Huez via Lac du Chambon
A route that includes the iconic Alpe d'Huez's 21 hairpin bends
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
Jump to
Cycle hire
Bike Hire in Les 2 Alpes
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Mountain bike hire
Looking to hire a mountain bike? This shop has you covered. It’s a great place to find the right ride for your alpine adventures.
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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Horse drawn sleigh rides
Discover the joys of sleigh rides through an idyllic setting on one of our 3 daily departures: 10am, 2pm and 3.30pm (1 hr 15 minute ride).
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Ice Cave
Walk through a 200m gallery to access a magical network of rooms carved out 20 metres below the surface of the snow, deep inside the glacier.
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Chasal Lento Museum, Mont de Lans
The aim of the museum is to preserve and display objects of bygone life in Oisans, displaying the traditions and arts of Mont de Lans,
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Alpinism Museum, St Christophe en Oisans
Discover historic mountaineering exhibits, old photos and a history of alpinism in the Ecrins and Meije areas.
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Bourg d'Oisans Museum
Located in the attic of the church of Bourg d'Oisans and is accessed by a building to the left of the church.
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Ecrins National Park
The Ecrins National Park is one of the highlights of the Southern Alps region.
Where to lunch
Restaurants in Les Deux Alpes
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La Porte d'à Côte Restaurant
Traditional regional cuisine made with local produce all year.
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Le QG Bar & Restaurant
Le QG is a lively bar and restaurant known for its brunch menu, cocktails and laid-back vibe. Tuck into pancakes, pizzas, burgers or tapas while soaking up the buzzy atmosphere. A firm favourite with locals and holiday makers for relaxed meals, après drinks and late-night music.
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Le P'tit Polyte Restaurant
This is the renowned restaurant of the 4* Chalet Hotel Mounier, famous in the Southern Alps for its fine cuisine based on fresh local produce and the inventiveness of the chef.
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The Soul Kitchen Restaurant
Small and cosy restaurant serving mountain favourites but with a veggie twist.
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La Cantine de Tom Restaurant
French restaurant with a number of traditional dishes as well as vegetarian and vegan friendly options. Open all day.
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Bouchon des Alpes Restaurant
Traditional French cuisine served either on the sunny terrace or the comfortable dining area, for brunch lunch and dinner.
What to do
Things To Do in Les Deux Alpes
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Ice Cave
Walk through a 200m gallery to access a magical network of rooms carved out 20 metres below the surface of the snow, deep inside the glacier.
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Ice Skating Rink
This 1,800m2 open-air artificial ice rink, located right in the heart of Les Deux Alpes, is great fun for friends and family.
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Palais des Sports
The sports centre in Les 2 Alpes is open throughout summer and winter and offers 1200m2 of leisure and sports space, as well as a large conference room and amphitheatre.
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Le Strike Bowling Alley
Challenge your friends to a game of bowling over a few beers.
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Les Deux Alpes Aacqua Center
Les Deux Alpes Aacqua Center is the perfect place to head to after a long day out on the mountain.
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Air 2 Alpes Parapente
Offering paragliding and speed riding you can experience something different in Les 2 Alpes with Air 2 Alpes.
