Sun 25 May to Sun 1 June 2008

The Challenge Dauphiné is one of the biggest cyclosportives in France with over 1000 participants. It's the first mountainous event of the season so attracts quite a high standard of rider. However, with it being relatively early in the season, most riders treat it as a day out so you needn't worry about getting left behind.

Itinerary

The week will consist of a programme of rides that will introduce you to the Vercors area with each day covering a different section of the course. By the end of the week you'll know what to expect and be able to decide whether you do the full 182km or, like most of the participants, opt for the 130km.

Fitness

The 130km is quite a good circuit with some medium climbs but nothing major. If you can manage an 80 mile ride you'll be OK. In contrast the extra loop added for the 182km is very demanding and a good level of fitness is required for this circuit.

As a guide the winner of the 180km circuit takes around 5 hrs 20 mins and the last finishing in 8 to 9 hours. For the 130km the winner will take under 4 hours and the last will get back in 7 to 8 hours.

If you are planning on doing one of the big cyclosportives later in the year, this is a good one to include as part of your build-up. If you haven't taken part in a French cyclosportive before then this is a good one to get some experience.

Price: £530

Includes : 7 nights dinner, bed and breakfast (based on two people sharing), luggage transport, route maps, local information, training advice and entry fees (a medical certificate is required), travel to/from event. Does not include travel and insurance.

Single room at Hotel Rome: £105
Transfers from/to Grenoble airport or Valence TGV: £40. Lyon airport £60.

Joining the ordeal

See the Gastrobiking travel section for more detailed information.

You can fly by Ryanair to Grenoble or take the train to Grenoble or Valence. From outside Europe it’s best to fly to Geneva then take the train. You can arrange to arrive on other dates to fit with your arrangements).

The tour links up with the European Bike Express