What’s the reasoning for hiring a bike rather than taking your own?

There’s some decent enough hire bikes in Bourg De Osians, which just so happens to be the start of loads of the climbs, Alp D’Huez, Croix de Fer, Croix de Glandon, Alp D’Huez, Col du Galibier, the Marmotte route etc.

Its very easy just to plan your own routes, its not like MTB’ing where everything’s hidden away, and theres lots of cafes and stuff on the routes.

I’d take your own bike if you’re riding for 4 days. Hiring seems to make more sense when its not a cycling holiday but you still want to get a ride in one day.

Hiring seems an excellent idea given the way airlines treat bikes. Take your own saddle and accurately measure saddle height and distance behind BB then any bike feels ok.

I’ll add the Isoard and Iseran to the list.

Velovation.

Col d’Izoard is beautiful, can be done in a big loop from Briancon down to Guillestre then up and over.

Stunning riding all over, can’t wait to go back.

I’d certainly think more about taking your own bike, stick it on the rack and drive down…if there’s someone to share the driving you’re laughing 🙂

Try Velovation, they’re based in Morzine.

Or Bourg D Oisans is a good base.

And of course, Galibier from the Telegraphe side…

Driving for four days is probably not worth it. Flying much easier. Although it depends where your based. I drove from Cumbria to Ventoux this year, that was too far. London to Morzine wouldnt be so bad though.

another +1 for velovation. had an excellent 3 days with them in june.

i reckon road holidays work better with a guide/van – i’d far rather do long climbs with just a couple of bottles, a tube, pump and multitool and going point to point than having to stay in one place (or drive each evening). certainly wouldn’t want to carry my stuff through the day.

Re the food and drink, that’s not our experience, but we go self catering.

Restaurant prices are OK, and reasonable choice in the town.

Oh and drop me an email as a reminder.