France Cycling Drop Bars - Etape du Tour Cyclosportive

Ride stage 20 of the 2013 Tour de France alongside 9000 other sportive riders
Spectacular 130km route with 3000m of climbing to conquer
Concentrate on the race as we provide full back up and logistical support
Enjoy 5 nights in wonderful Annecy, the 'Venice of the Alps'

The way that Bradley Wiggins managed to dominate this year's Tour de France made the race appear relatively straightforward, but just how difficult is a mountain stage in the French Alps. This is a unique opportunity to really find out. The Etape du Tour was established in 1993 to allow amateur cyclists from all over the world to test their legs on exactly the same roads as their heroes.

This year's route will mimic stage 20 of the 2013 Tour de France - a challenging 130km day with six climbs from the beautiful town of Annecy to the summit finish at nearby Semnoz. What makes the route particularly interesting is that it will be the final road stage before the final procession into Paris. The race attracts some ex-pros and other very strong riders but for most participants the real goal is to complete the course, claim your finisher's medal and enjoy the fantastic sense of achievement.

You will need to be very fit and well prepared, but it is amazing how signing up for an event like this will help to motivate you to train through the winter months. Your reward will be a once in a lifetime experience.

Extracts magazine article about Riding the Etape du Tour ...

Andy Ross, Exodus Cycling Programme Manager, writes about Riding the Etape du Tour (January 2013).

Itinerary

[detailed itinerary...]

Countries visited: France

Day 1

Fly to Geneva; transfer to the lovely town of Annecy in the French Alps where we will be staying near to the historical old town centre.

Day 2

Warm up ride around the beautiful Bauges region where this years Etape route takes place. There will be the opportunity to climb the Col de Leschaux (944m) as well as the summit of Semnoz (1655m), the final climb during the race.

Day 3

This morning there'll be a gentle two hour ride around the lake to loosen up the legs, before signing on at the Etape race registration. The rest of the day will be spent resting and preparing for the big day tomorrow.

Day 4

Ride the Etape du Tour 2013. Challenge yourself over the six climbs of Cote du Puget (796m), Col de Leschaux (944m), Cote de Aillons-le-Vieux (926m), Col des Pres (1142m), Mont Revard (1463m) and finally the challenging climb to Semnoz (1655m).

Day 5

Free day to recover and enjoy a relaxing walk along the charming streets and canals of Annecy. The Palais de l'Isle, the castle, the cathedral and the lake are all worth a visit. If you still have any energy left, you can try kayaking on the lake.

Day 6

Transfer to Geneva; fly to London.

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