Alpe d'Huez: A Cycling Challenge of Legendary Proportions

The Notorious "Dutch Mountain"

Nestled amidst the towering peaks of the French Alps, Alpe d'Huez stands as a formidable cycling challenge that has etched its name into the annals of cycling lore. With its iconic 21 hairpins winding relentlessly up the mountain's slopes, Alpe d'Huez has tested the limits of the world's greatest riders since its inception.

A Test of Endurance and Willpower

Stretching over 139 kilometers, Alpe d'Huez ascends an imposing 1118 vertical meters with an average gradient of 8%. It is a grueling test of endurance, willpower, and technical skill that separates the true champions from the pretenders. The unforgiving ascent has become a pilgrimage for cyclists from around the globe, eager to conquer this mythical mountain.

A Stage of Epic Battles

Alpe d'Huez has been a stage of the Tour de France since 1952, and it has witnessed some of the most thrilling and dramatic moments in the race's history. Legendary riders such as Eddy Merckx, Fausto Coppi, and Marco Pantani have etched their names into cycling history with their epic performances on this iconic climb.

A Symbol of Sporting Excellence

Today, Alpe d'Huez remains a symbol of sporting excellence and a testament to the human spirit's ability to overcome adversity. It continues to inspire cyclists of all levels to push their limits and strive for greatness.