Alpe d'Huez

Alpe d'Huez 1860m

13.8km at 8.1% (+1135m / 2500ft)

Record time: 37' 35"by Pantani 1995 (Armstrong 38' 01" in 2001, 39'41'' in 2004)

Alpe d'Huez is the climb of mythical status for cyclists. Since 1952 it has been climbed 23 times by the Tour de France. Usually at the end of a long mountainous stage many a battle has been waged round the 21 hairpins.

The 2004 Tour de France saw the Alpe d'Huez climb used for a time trial for the first time.

 

Time

Year

Rider

36'50

1995

Marco Pantani

36' 55"

1997

Marco Pantani

37' 15''

1994

Marco Pantani

37' 36''

2004

Lance Armstrong

37' 40''

1997

Jan Ullrich

38' 05''

2001

Lance Armstrong

38' 10''

1995

Miguel Indurain

38' 10''

1995

Alex Zulle

38' 15''

1995

Bjarne Riis

38' 20''

1997

Richard Virenque

39' 6"

2003

Iban Mayo

41' 52"

1999

Guiseppe Guerini

The climb has been timed since 1994 so earlier times are not available. From 1994 to 1997 the climb was timed from a point 14.5km from the finish. Since 1999 a photo-finish system was used from 14km to the finish. These times are all taken from 13.8km from the summit ie. from the corner which marks the start of the climb. Other timings have also been taken from the road junction approximately 700m from the start of the climb.

What it's like

The 21 hairpins and the hill can be split into 3 sections. If you're not a great hill-climber a good tactic is to take the corners wide (minding the traffic) so that you get some time on the flats. Otherwise just pace yourself up and latch on to the back wheels of other riders when possible.

And try to admire the scenery!

And don't forget about the pizzas and cakes at the top.

The 'Depart' is just outside of Bourg d'Oisans (turn left just past the supermarket).

The first corner is where the gradient abruptly hits 10.5%. It's important that you don't over-cook it on this bit. Concentrate on finding your own rhythm and don't try to keep up with your friends (if you have any) otherwise you'll blow and won't recover.

The first 4 hairpins take you to La Garde where there is a water fountain and a small restaurant. It levels off slightly here so ease off the gas and allow your legs to recover. Apparently Marco Pantani was clocked at 30kph on this first bit but if you manage 10kph you're doing OK.

In the second section there are two longish sections between corners which are mentally quite tough as the fatigue levels take their toll. I'm afraid there are no pics of this section. It's probably better not knowing until you ride it. I don't want to spoil all the suffering.

The final third takes you from Huez village passed the junction (keep left and follow the names on the road) and round the final 3 hairpins (there is usually a photographer at hairpin number 2).

The last hairpin is followed by a steep bit (11%) but you'll be used to climbing by now so just go-go-go!

The 'finish' line is where the road levels off and there is an 'arrivee' banner across the road.

Unfortunately most riders are too preoccupied with fatigue/cars/pedestrians to see this and keep on going. This is easily done especially on Friday when the market is here. Just to add to the excitement.

There's a fountain just after on the right, usually surrounded by other cyclists. The nearest bar is on the left.

The actual Tour de France finish is further on and to get there you have to wind your way through the village. There are now signs indicating the way.

The Office du Tourisme offers you a certificate as a souvenir. There is a small charge of 1 euro which goes towards the local association for handicapped athletes. The office is at the other finish on the left (you have to climb a few steps). No proof is required; somehow they can tell whether you're being honest or not.

Cycle Jerseys

You can buy cycle jerseys in Alpe d'Huez with the Alpe d'Huez motif on for around 60 euros (£40). Our favourites, however, are sold in Bourg d'Oisans at the Cycles et Sports bike shop. They also rent out bikes and have a good mechanic should you need to change your gearing.

You can visit their website at www.cyclesetsports.com