6 Days / 5 Nights | Rating: Avid | Start / End: Annecy, France / Chamonix, France
- E-bikes Available
Explore the dramatic landscapes of the Alps. Admire the gorgeous blue hues of Lake Annecy. Bike to iconic views of the storybook Savoy village of La Clusaz. Take in the glamour of breathtaking Chamonix on the foothills of Mont Blanc. Cross the border and ride to Italy’s mountain town of Courmayeur in Aosta Valley. Relax in elegant properties from Annecy’s Imperial hotel, exuding cool luxury, to the illustrious Relais & Châteaux 5-star Hameau
Albert 1er, in the heart of Chamonix. Bienvenue en France – Sojourn Style!
Your journey begins in the Haute-Savoie town of Annecy, overlooking its namesake lake, Europe’s most pristine. Beyond the stunning mountain and lake views, be charmed by the sparkling canals and cobblestone streets of this “little Venice of the Alps.” Cycle along the lake’s shoreline towards its tallest mountain, La Tournette. Pedal up the switchbacks of 2018 Stage 10 of the Tour de France from Bluffy to La Clusaz along some spectacular views. Ride into the French Alps through the chic farming villages of Flumet and Megève, where we break for a picnic lunch to soak in the surrounding vistas. Explore the shops, brasseries and century-old pathways of the glamorous ski resort village of Chamonix, known for hosting the first winter Olympics in 1924 at the base of Mont Blanc, Western Europe’s tallest mountain at 15,781 feet. Cross over to the Italian side of Mont Blanc and to the mountain town of Courmayeur in Aosta Valley. Explore this “best all-round ski resort town of Italy” over lunch.
Take the train up to the Mer De Glace (Sea of Ice), the largest glacier in France – more than four miles long and 656 feet deep and visit its ice cave, ice sculptures, and museum. Recharge in the alpine setting of your Relais & Châteaux 5-star Hameau Albert 1er and savor traditional French and Alpine cuisine, prepared by the region’s best chefs
Travel the Sojourn Style
EXPERIENCES, NOT BIKE TOURS
While we love our cycling, it makes up only one facet of what a true Sojourn trip entails. We believe in immersing ourselves in local cultures and discovering the hidden gems of the world.
REGIONAL PLANNING SPECIALISTS
From Vietnam to France to Glacier National Park, we are committed to offering exceptional trips in regions with which we are deeply familiar. We personally design and operate each of our trips.
PREMIER ACCOMMODATIONS
We carefully select from some of World’s renowned hotels. From highly reviewed and acclaimed Hotel de Londres in San Sebastian, Spain or the Reverie Saigon, Vietnam, one of the leading hotels in the World.
UNWAVERING ATTENTION TO SERVICE
Our commitment to provide you with unwavering service starts from the moment you first interact with the Sojourn team. We believe the little details matter and make the Sojourn vacation a life-list worthy experience for our guests.
PROFESSIONAL TRIP LEADERS
Gracious, engaging, and intelligent, our expert team of tour leaders consist of professionals from all walks of life and make exceptional travel companions. Always a step ahead, they are adept at everything from spinning wrenches to whipping up fabulous picnic lunches.
YOUR VACATION, YOUR PACE
We believe that at the end of the day, you are at the helm of your own vacation. We offer an array of day-to-day options to enable you to approach each day at your own pace.
Day 1
Annecy – Bienvenue to pristine Lake Annecy and the picturesque town of Annecy, “the little Venice of the Alps.” Your Sojourn leader will meet you at your hotel and get you fitted to your bike. You’ll soon be riding along the west shore of France’s third largest lake, renowned for being the Europe’s cleanest. Settle into your grand hotel — originally opened in 1913, the Edwardian-style property once hosted royals, world leaders and celebrities from Winston Churchill to Charlie Chaplin. Tonight, mingle with your fellow travelers at a reception at the hotel’s Hip Bar followed by a dinner featuring a creative bistro style culinary experience.
GOOD TO KNOW
Every Sojourn trip is different in their own unique ways. We want you to be aware of them so that you can only have the best experiences possible. Please know, whichever trip you choose we are committed to make it the trip of a lifetime!
LODGING:
Imperial Palace, Annecy
33-4-50-09-30-00
www.hotel-imperial-palace.com
CYCLING OPTIONS:
29 Miles
35.8 Miles
Day 2
Annecy – Continue your exploration of the Alps’ glorious Haute-Savoie region with your ride along the eastern shore of Lake Annecy. At 7,713 feet high, La Tournette, the highest mountain around the lake, dominates your dramatic views. The ride is essentially the same course as the 2009 Tour de France time trial and includes the famous ‘Côte de Talloires’ climb of 2km. Break for a picnic lunch of crisp baguettes, local cheeses, savory meats and fruits. The afternoon and evening are on your own to explore this whimsical town dubbed the “Venice of Alps.” You can walk to the town center and browse the lively shops along the cobbled streets and canals of the Vieille Ville (old town). Bring along your camera to capture fairytale-like scenes including the medieval Château d’Annecy, formerly home to the Counts of Geneva and now a regional museum; the 12th century Palais de l’Isle, that has served as a prison, a mint, a courthouse, and a lord’s residence; and, also a favorite spot for a kiss, and Pont des Amours (Lovers’ Bridge). Or, why not enjoy some ‘Apero’ time — and watch the world go by?
KEEPING YOU POSTED
We’re constantly looking for ways to enhance our trips. We’ll do our best to notify you of any changes in this itinerary. Other changes may be communicated to you on the trip by your leaders.
LODGING:
Imperial Palace, Annecy
33-4-50-09-30-00
www.hotel-imperial-palace.com
CYCLING OPTIONS:
Up to 48 Miles
Day 3
La Clusaz – Get ready for a bucket list ride today as you follow the route of the 2018 Tour de France, stage 10, from Bluffy to La Clusaz. Heading out on the eastern shore of Lake Annecy our first climb is the Col de Bluffy offering gorgeous views of the Chateau de Menthon – Saint Bernard. Be prepared to climb three steep switchbacks, ascending 2700ft in elevation. Our route takes us deeper into the mountains through small villages into Thônes, the capital of Reblochon cheese. Go for the glory — or opt for van support to soak in the grand vistas of the Alps along the route. Either way, a spectacular day of riding ends at the authentic Savoy village of La Clusaz with lunch. Retreat to your four-star Alpine Chalet at the foot of the ski slopes and enjoy the views of the Aravis mountains from your private balcony. Savor a chef presented traditional French cuisine for dinner at your hotel tonight.
LODGING:
Hotel Beauregard, Las Clusaz
33-4-50-32-68-00 www.hotel
beauregard.fr
CYCLING OPTIONS:
16 Miles, 20 Miles, 24.9 Miles
19 miles of this route is part of the
Stage 10 of 2018 Tour de France.
Day 4
Chamonix – This morning depart your idyllic retreat at La Clusaz for another grand ride with iconic views. Ride through the chic villages of Flumet and Megève, once peaceful farming towns and now known for their proximity to the ski slopes of Mont Blanc. Break for a picnic lunch in glamorous Megeve, which prides itself as an early pioneer of skiing. Local farmers invented the first ski tows, and they organized their first skiing competition in 1914.
Wrap up your ride in internationally renowned and glamorous ski resort village of Chamonix, known for hosting the first winter Olympics in 1924 at the base of Mont. Blanc, Western Europe’s tallest mountain at 15,781 feet. Your home for next two days is the five-star Relais & Châteaux Hameau Albert 1er. Launched in 1903, it resembles a small hamlet, nestled in a garden with a flowing brook and fruit trees and boasts a two-star Michelin rated restaurant. Dinner is on your own tonight. If you opt for the Michelin star restaurant at the hotel, please let the Sojourn office know well in advance to reserve a table for you.
LODGING:
Hameau Albert 1er, Chamonix
33-4-50-53-05-09
www.hameaualbert.fr
CYCLING OPTIONS:
Up to 44.5 Miles
Day 5
This morning we explore the Italian side of Mont Blanc after a shuttle under the Mont Blanc tunnel. The ride is comprised of two out and back routes up magnificent Aosta Valley with 1150m of total climbing. We will stop to explore the mountain town of Coumayeur, otherwise known as the “best all-round ski resort town of Italy,” over lunch.
MULTIPLE ROUTE OPTIONS
Itching for that EPIC (Extra Pedal if Crazy) ride? No problem, we’ll show you our favorite hills. Looking for more downtime? Your trip leaders will tell you the best days to take a break. All Sojourn tours have multiple route options to accommodate your riding skill or desires!
The rest of the afternoon is yours to explore on your own. You can choose to take the train up to the Mer De Glace (Sea of Ice), the largest glacier in France – more than four miles long and 656 feet deep or visit its ice cave, ice sculptures and museum. Stroll the village of Chamonix and its historic churches, boutiques, and brasseries. Wander the centuries-old streets and architecture revealing the time when Chamonix first became a popular destination for mountaineering; learn about its early love affair with skiing as the host of the first Winter Olympic Games in 1924.
Enjoy the camaraderie of your fellow travelers and share your day’s adventures, as you gather for your farewell dinner. A table in the mountain-style farmhouse restaurant promises traditional, mountain cuisine, including a carousel of tempting desserts.
LODGING:
Hameau Albert 1er, Chamonix
33-4-50-53-05-09
www.hameaualbert.fr
CYCLING OPTIONS:
27 Miles
Day 6
Depart – After breakfast get ready for your final alpine ride – An out and back up and over the Col des Montets to Le Buet for a coffee. Steadily wind your way upward, beneath the peaks of the Mont Blanc massif, including its giant faces — Grandes Jorasses (13,806 feet), and the needle-spire of Aiguille du Chardonnet (12,546 feet). Get back to Chamonix where a delicious lunch awaits you before you are transported to Geneva International Airport.
CYCLING OPTIONS:
18 Miles
Tour Accommodations
Imperial Palace, Annecy
The exceptional environment of the peninsula and its majestic "Belle Époque” façade make this hotel a stunning destination set amid Lake Annecy and the mountains. Ideally situated in the heart of the Alps in Upper Savoy, only 30 minutes from Geneva airport this is symbolic building for the people of Annecy and is located a few minutes away on foot from the city center. (2 Nights)
Allée de l'Impérial
74000 Annecy, France
www.hotel-imperial-palace.com | 33-4-50-09-30-00
Hameau Albert 1er
In the valley of Chamonix Mont-Blanc, the charming 5-star Hameau Albert 1er welcomes you in a prestigious setting in the heart of lush greenery. Luxurious, boutique-style rooms with fireplaces, family suites, cozy cottages, a spa, an indoor and outdoor pool with views of Mont-Blanc, a 2-star Michelin restaurant, a country restaurant, and conference facilities make for a fabulous stay. heart of the mountaineering capital. (2 Nights)
Allée de l'Impérial
74000 Annecy, France
www.hameaualbert.fr | 33-4-50-53-05-09
Hotel Beauregard, La Clusaz
This hotel is built in traditional Savoyard chalet style, located at the foot of the ski slopes, close to the village La Clusaz. Each room features a private balcony with incredible views over the resort of La Clusaz or over the Aravis mountain range. (1 Night)
90 sentier du Bossonnet
74220 La Clusaz, France
www.hotel-beauregard.fr | 33-4-50-32-68-00
Travel & Tour Quick Facts
| TOUR START | Annecy, France |
| TOUR CONCLUSION | Geneva International Airport, Switzerland. |
| TRAVEL TO/FROM TOUR | Fly in to and out of Geneva International Airport (GVA). |
| DAYS/NIGHTS | 6 Days/5 Nights |
| INCLUDED MEALS | All breakfasts, 3 Dinners, 2 Lunches. |
| ACTIVITIES | Cycling. |
| RATING | Avid - This tour is for those looking to push their riding to a new level with occasional steady or steep climbs and an average of 25-55 plus miles a day. |
Dates & Pricing
What’s Included?
| EQUIPMENT | Road or hybrid bike, helmet, rear light, seat bag for road bike or rack bag for hybrid, map case, water bottle, and jersey. Bring clipless pedals, seat, or helmet for a more personalized fit. |
| VAN SUPPORT | Rides supported by a Sojourn van as well as a tour leader on a bicycle. |
| TOUR LEADERS | Two experienced tour leaders guide each trip from start to finish. |
| RIDE NOURISHMENT | A selection of snacks and refreshments are supplied throughout all rides. |
| RIDE INFORMATION | Detailed route directions, maps, downloadable GPS routes, and a daily briefing are provided. |
| OFFICE SUPPORT | At your service 9:00am – 6:00pm EST, Monday – Friday. 802-425-4771 |
| DETAILED INFORMATION | A full complement of detailed trip and travel information will be provided upon confirmation of reservation. |
| E-BIKES & TANDEMS | Limited Electric Assist Bikes are available on all tours. Tandems are also available on on our US and Canada tours for an additional fee. Call us at 1-802-425-4771 for details |
Weather
| Annecy | Jun | Sep |
|---|---|---|
| High °F | 73° | 69° |
| Low °F | 52° | 49° |
| Precip. Inches | 3.4 | 3.5 |
| Chamonix | Jun | Sep |
|---|---|---|
| High °F | 64° | 63° |
| Low °F | 53° | 53° |
| Precip. Inches | 5.1 | 4.0 |
WE’RE HAPPY TO CHAT!
Call: 802.425.4771
Write: info@gosojourn.com
Visit: GoSojourn.com
PRICES & SCHEDULE
All prices and schedules are subject to change at any time.
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