Frequently Asked Questions

All you want to know about a tour with Alpine Cycling!

">Ask A Question

What do I need to bring ?

Bring enough cycling clothing for the week, plus helmet, shoes, pedals and bike lights. Don’t forget leg/arm warmers, and a waterproof as the weather can change quickly in the mountains. We will provide you with one Q36-5 outfit and will lend you a GPS bike computer.

Bring some casual off the bike wear, and something for the gastronomic restaurant!    We will send a full kit list before the trip.

Can I come accompanied by a non cyclist?

Yes of course !  If your partner is not a cyclist we can suggest some lovely walks from the hotel or visit to the local town or markets, and they can of course take part in the non cycling activities.  The advantage of being at the same hotel throughout the stay means they can relax at the hotel and not have to travel to meet you. However we cannot garantee that there will be transport at their disposal every day.

Can I bring my own bike / hire a bike ?

We have a fleet of top of the range Argon18 bikes for you to use during your stay for a small extra charge. We will just need your size in order to make sure we have the right one for you.

If you’d prefer to bring your own no problem, it is your own responsability during transport, but we have somewhere to stock the bike box.

How do I get there ? Do I book my own flights ?

The flights are not included. You will need to book your own flight to Geneva where we will come and pick you up at the agreed time / date for the start of your tour. We will send you a confirmation mail once you have paid your deposit with details of which time you should aim to arrive.

Alternatively you could make your own way to Chambery, we will give you directions and let you know how to reach the Hotel.

How fit do I need to be ?

We will be cycling for 3-4 hours each day so you need to have a fair level of fitness and be able to sustain a good few hours on the bike. We can take it easy up the climbs, but some will be over 1000m altitude gain and up to 20km of climbing at one time, so a bit of training is necessary! An alternative (shorter) route is available each day, and a support vehicule if you’re really struggling.

Do you cater for specific dietary requirements ?

Yes we can cater for specific dietary requirements, please make sure you tell us in advance.

Do you provide energy gels

We will provide Stealth energy bars and gels during your rides and a good range of sweet and savoury snacks. However if you wish to have a specific brand of energy products you will need to bring them with you.

Do you have a mechanic available for bike assembly etc ?

Yes we have a bike mechanic and tools at your disposal at the Hotel and a fully equipped workshop close to the hotel so if you have brought your own bike then we can help you with assembly when you arrive.

Is there Wifi at the hotel?

Yes there is Wifi at the Hotel.

What will the programme of an average day be?

We will generally set off on the bike at around 9am each day and aim to do 4-5 hours riding, including a lunch break. Some days we will drive to the start of the ride so leave slightly earlier, and get back later. On most days there is is an activity also planned : wine tasting, spa, paragliding, and a visit to Chambery historical town centre. We will send you a full programme before the trip.

Will we be staying in the same hotel the whole time?

Yes. Just unpack your bag and make yourself at home !

What should I carry with me on the bike ?

Phone, money, Emergency contact card, snacks, water, arm/leg warmers, lightweight waterproof, puncture repair kit (tyre levers, inner tube and pump) bike lights. These last items will be provide if you have one of our bikes and if you need us to get you the puncture repair kit we can, just ask.

What if I need to cancel my holiday ?

The first thing to do is contact us by email (we require written confirmation of all cancellations) to explain the situation. Please read our Terms and Conditions for the details. We recommend that you get insurance out at the time of booking, and that you include cancellation cover as injuries during training are not uncommon.

 

What will the weather be like?

No guarantees – but in June/July the weather here in the Alps can get very hot, 30° +, so don’t forget the sunscreen. However there are no guarantees that we won’t have a summer storm or two, so bring the raincoats too!! Please refer to the packing list to ensure you have all the appropriate equipment.

Do I need insurance ?

Travel insurance is compulsory on all of our holidays, you will need to be covered for the following :

  • Compulsory:  Insurance cover for road cycling (touring as opposed to racing or competitive cycling)
  • Compulsory : That it covers medical expenses and repatriation
  • Optional : holiday cancellation or curtailment.
  • Optional : damage, theft or loss of personal belongings and sport equipment eg bikes

We will ask you to email us the Policy Number and the Contact Number for your insurance company, at the same time as a health/insurance form that we will send you just before the trip.

Can I leave a day earlier ?

Please contact us for any change in the dates. We can reserve an extra night before or after the tour dates if you wish to stay longer and we will let you know of the charge before confirming. If you have to leave earlier or arrive late to a planned tour we cannot reimburse you any costs or garantee an airport transfer, but we will do our best to be flexible

Do I need a GPS

We can lend you a Wahoo GPS bike computer for the week. If you wish to bring your own we can send you the GPX files a week prior to your stay, or help you upload them when you arrive. Our guide will be with the group doing the longer route, and there is a support car if necessary.

Are there laundry facilities

Yes we provide a free of charge laundry service for your cycle kit every night.

Which meals /drinks are included ?

Breakfast and a 3 course evening meal on half board at the 3* Hotel Chateau are included, with 1/3 bottle wine per night.

Lunch at a café en route (one day picnic) is also included for each day, plus one coffee stop.

Also included is an amazing gastronomic meal at a Michelin-starred restaurant overlooking the lake Bourget one evening.

Any other drinks or snacks will be at your own charge.

Is there a sports massage service every day ?

A sports massage is included every other day and will last 20 minutes.

What if I don't want to take part in the planned activity after the ride ?

Our activities have been planned so you can enjoy relaxation culture and exploring the area and we think you’ll really miss out if you don’t take part!! Obviously of you want to sit one out then no problems, unfortunately we cannot offer a refund for a particular activity.

What is the minimum age requirement?

18 is the minimum age for our trips.

If we haven’t answered your question

then please get in touch :

">

">

00 33 663 30 72 32

229a Rue Jean Moulin 73190 CHALLES LES EAUX FR