There are few places in the world where sport, landscape, and legend come together quite like they do on Alpe d’Huez. This July, at the end of the first week of racing, the Tour de France returns to our mountain with back-to-back stages on 24th and 25th July — and the excitement is already building.
For our Alpine Club community, this isn’t just another date in the cycling calendar. It’s one of the most electric weeks of the summer.
The Legend of Alpe d’Huez
With its 21 hairpin bends, 13.8 km of climbing, and an average gradient of 8.1%, Alpe d’Huez is one of the most iconic ascents in professional cycling. Each bend carries the name of a past stage winner. Each metre of tarmac has seen drama, heartbreak, and triumph.
From Dutch Corner’s sea of orange to the thunder of helicopters overhead, the atmosphere during a Tour stage is unlike anything else in the Alps. The mountain transforms. Roads close. Spectators line the route hours – sometimes days – in advance. Flags wave, cowbells ring, and when the riders finally appear, the noise is unforgettable.
To witness the Tour on Alpe d’Huez isn’t just to watch a bike race – it’s to experience cycling history in real time.
Why This Year Is Special
With stages falling on 24th and 25th July, the Tour hits Alpe d’Huez at a pivotal moment — the end of our first week at our Alpine Club, Vaujany. By then, the general classification battle is taking shape. Rivalries are established. Teams are testing each other. The legs are feeling the accumulated kilometres.
Mountain stages this early often create defining moments:
- Breakaway victories
- First serious time gaps between GC contenders
- Early yellow jersey drama
- Attacks that set the tone for the rest of the race
It’s the kind of racing that rewards being there in person.
What It Means for Our Alpine Club
For our Alpine Club guests, this is one of the standout highlights of the summer season.
A Front-Row Seat to the World’s Greatest Race
If you join us for the week of the 18th July, you will get a full taste of the action. We’re perfectly positioned, close enough for easy access, but just far enough away to be out of the madness so you can still enjoy your holiday!
Whether you prefer to get the gondola and hike up to a viewing bend, settle into a terrace spot, or cycle part of the climb before road closures, there are countless ways to soak up the moment, with easy access from our chalet in Vaujany.
The Alps at Their Best
Late July is prime Alpine season. Expect:
- Long sunny days
- Lush green valleys
- Wildflowers in bloom
- Perfect hiking and riding conditions
Even outside of race day, the mountain is alive with energy. It’s a brilliant time to combine cycling, walking, lake swims, and sociable evenings back at the club.
More Than Just Cycling
While the Tour is a huge highlight, July at the Alpine Club offers far more:
Guided Walks & High Alpine Adventures
Explore panoramic trails, hidden lakes, and dramatic ridgelines. From gentle valley strolls to more challenging alpine routes, there’s something for every level.
Road & Mountain Biking
Outside of race day, this is prime cycling territory. Quiet morning rides, classic cols, and downhill routes through alpine meadows offer unforgettable experiences.
Social Evenings
Shared meals, relaxed drinks on the terrace, and that special buzz that comes when the mountains are full of life.
A Welcoming Community
What makes our Alpine Club special isn’t just the setting – it’s the people. Guests return year after year because of the atmosphere: relaxed, supportive, adventurous, and friendly.
Be Part of It
There are moments in the Alps that stay with you forever – and the Tour de France climbing Alpe d’Huez is one of them.
Whether you’re a lifelong cycling fan or simply curious to witness one of sport’s greatest spectacles, this is your chance to experience it from the heart of the action.
We can’t wait to share it with you.
