A playground like no other. Explore the endless roads of Europe’s most impressive mountain ranges and discover giants such as...
A playground like no other. Explore the endless roads of Europe’s most impressive mountain ranges and discover giants such as the Col du Tourmalet, Col du Galibier and Vršič Pass.
Preparing for a cycling tour in the European mountains is an exciting prospect: the jaw-dropping scenery, colossal climbs, breath-taking descents, the après-ride endorphins, and not to mention the chance to ride in the tyre-tracks of the best cyclists in the world… That’s some prime day-dreaming material.
This guide will provide an insight into some of the most renowned mountain ranges in Europe, including the Pyrenees, the Alps, the Julian Alps, and the Dolomites, and the Eat Sleep Cycle tours that could turn those daydreams into a quad-burning reality. You’ll also find essential information on weather conditions, packing tips, and the best bike for conquering these majestic mountains.
First of all, the Pyrenees Mountains. A natural border between Spain and France, home to Andorra and summiting at an impressive 3,404 metres, the Pyrenees promise some exhilarating riding. Cycling in the Pyrenees offers challenging ascents, rewarding descents and awe-inspiring vistas.
Some of the best professional cyclists in the world train on its legendary climbs. These include the Col du Tourmalet, whose summit brushes the clouds at 2,115 m (one of the highest paved roads in the Pryenees), or Col d’Aubisque, a near 17-km climb that reaches at 1,709 m above sea level. These roads are buzzing with the sound of tyres on smooth tarmac and an orchestra of freehubs as riders descend at speed, and there’s no shortage of friendly competition.
Next up, the Alps, Europe’s most renowned mountain range that each summer beckons cyclists from all over the world. Some of the iconic mountain passes, such as Col du Galibier and Col de l’Iseran, are often featured in the Tour de France. These alpine giants are two of the most well-pedalled climbs in this mountain range, standing at dizzying altitudes of 2,645 m, and 2,764 m above sea level respectively.
Stunning views reward anyone who ventures up these Cols to get a taste of the deep-seated cycling culture that permeates these mountains in summer. The roads are literally painted with history, and summer transforms this landscape into a cyclist’s paradise. Drivers are respectful and the hotels are filled with other riders as the exciting prospect of the Tour de France looms just around the corner…
The Julian Alps border both Italy and Austria and are nestled in the heart of Slovenia. This often-overlooked mountain range is a hidden gem for cyclists of all disciplines and offers a true paradise for climbers, with picturesque peaks and valleys, pristine lakes such as Lake Bled and charming alpine villages.
The Vršič Pass, Slovenia’s highest mountain pass, sits within the Triglav National Park and stands at an impressive 1,611 m. It’s around 10 km in length with an average gradient of 6.9% (cranking up to 14% on some sections), and boasts incredible views of teetering limestone rock formations, unexpected cobbled sections, tunnels cut through the mountainside and classic hairpin bends.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Dolomites are a cyclist’s paradise. Located in north-eastern Italy, this impressive mountain range is renowned for its jagged peaks, dramatic cliffs and winding roads, and is just as popular in winter among skiers as it is in summer among cyclists.
This alpine wonderland is home to world-famous climbs such as the Passo Pordoi and Passo Giau. The former stretches for 12.4 km (on the northern side), and culminates in a summit 2,239 m above sea level. The Passo Giau reaches similar heights, with an average gradient of around 9%. Both often feature in the gruelling Giro d’Italia.
When preparing for a cycling tour in the high mountains of Europe, it is essential to look carefully at forecasted weather conditions. Although summer in these regions is generally mild, with cool mornings and warm afternoons, the weather can be unpredictable and is known to change from one climb to the next. In the days leading up to your visit, and on the morning of each ride, make sure to check the local weather forecast and dress accordingly.
The key concept to bear in mind here is… layers. Even in summer, weather conditions can be unpredictable, so it’s important to be able to layer up when temperatures drop, and shed layers when things heat up.
Here’s a quick list of the basics you’ll need on your cycling tour in the high European mountains:
Some other essentials:
The right bike can make all the difference when riding in the mountains, and that means the right bike for you. In general, you’ll want a lightweight road or gravel bike with a wide range of gears to tackle steep ascents and varying gradients, and stay in control on the long descents.
Make sure your bike is in excellent condition with recently-serviced brakes, a clean, well-oiled chain and good tyres suitable for varied road surfaces. You might even want to get a professional bike fitting done before the tour to ensure your saddle and pedals are positioned correctly to make riding will be as comfortable as possible.
Cycling in the high mountains of Europe is something you will remember for the rest of your life. In summer, these majestic passes and peaks come alive with the spirit and tradition of cycling culture given their prominence in world tours, such as the Giro d’Italia or the Tour de France. You’ll also need to be used to climbing to tackle the ascents and enjoy the experience, so make sure you get some training in before your visit.
Take a look at our Eat Sleep Cycle tours for more inspiration:
Classic Climbs of the Pyrenees
And if you’re inspired to ride, contact our travel experts for more information.
