If there's one cyclosportive that inspires—and intimidates—amateurs, it's La Marmotte Granfondo Alpes. Starting from Bourg-d'Oisans, it chains together some of the Alps' most legendary climbs before the final ascent to Alpe d'Huez. A monument for amateur cyclists, with a daunting challenge.
The Route of Legend
- 186 km and nearly 5,000 m of elevation gain: a Grand Tour stage profile, but open to everyone.
- Legendary climbs: Glandon (also called Croix de Fer), Télégraphe, Galibier, Lautaret, then the 21 hairpins of Alpe d'Huez as a grand finale.
- Valley heat and mountain altitude: you must manage effort, nutrition, and weather over a very long day.
- International atmosphere: the vast majority of participants come from abroad to take on this challenge.
How to Prepare
- Endurance first: 5,000 m of climbing requires substantial mountain volume in advance.
- Mechanics: appropriate gearing (low enough for Galibier and Alpe), brakes in perfect condition for long descents.
- Management: fueling, hydration and pacing—you don't "sprint" a Marmotte, you finish it.
