French Alps Gravel Adventures
French Alps by Bike. Iconic climbs. High-country gravel. The mountains at their most magnificent.
This is not a sightseeing tour with bikes. This is the Alps — rode properly.
Based in the Trois Vallées, Revel Rides' alpine experiences take you into some of the most spectacular cycling terrain in the world.
Gravel tracks above the treeline.
Forest descents into valley villages.
Routes with Mont Blanc on the horizon.
Climbs that have no business being this beautiful.
These rides are designed for cyclists who are ready to go further — and who want someone who truly knows these mountains to take them there.
Your Guide: Ian
Ian has spent decades cycling, mountain biking, and bikepacking across the French Alps. He knows the Trois Vallées intimately — the cols that don't appear on tourist maps, the gravel tracks that connect villages most cyclists never find, and exactly when to stop so you can take in a view that will stay with you for years.
His rides are about progression, not punishment. Expect varied terrain, thoughtful pacing, and the occasional moment where the trail narrows into something wonderful.
Ian leads all Revel Rides alpine experiences personally, sometimes accompanied by founder, Lindsey.
The Routes
Mont Jovet & the High Cols
Climb above the Trois Vallées into serious alpine terrain — gravel tracks, sweeping ridge views, and the kind of silence you only find above 2,000m. This is Ian's home turf, and it shows.
~50–70 km · 1,500–2,500m elevation · Full day · Difficulty: ●●●●●
Lake Annecy — Route de la Soif
One of the great lake rides in Europe, and a Revel favourite. The Route de la Soif hugs the eastern shore of Lac d'Annecy through vineyards, villages, and turquoise water views that make you forget you're working. A perfect blend of beauty and effort.
~40–55 km · Full day with travel · Difficulty: ●●●●●
Mont Blanc Views Ride
A carefully chosen route that earns you unobstructed views of the Mont Blanc massif — Europe's highest peak — from the saddle of your bike. Gravel roads, quiet cols, and a backdrop that makes every climb worth it.
~45–65 km · 1,200–2,000m elevation · Full day · Difficulty: ●●●●●
Bespoke Multi-Day Alpine Adventure
Two to five days in the Alps, designed entirely around you. Ian will build your itinerary based on your fitness, ambitions, and how deep into the mountains you want to go — from accessible valley gravel to high-alpine challenge. Accommodation logistics available on request.
2–5 days · Fully customisable · All abilities considered.
What's Included
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Fully private guided experience with Ian
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Pre-ride route briefing and daily planning
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Professional pacing and on-road support
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Strava GPX files for every ride
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Carbon gravel bike rental available on request
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Accommodation recommendations and logistics support (multi-day)
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Optional photography add-on
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Getting There from Paris
The Alps are about 4 hours from Paris by TGV — we'll advise on the best train connections and can coordinate arrival logistics so you hit the ground ready to ride.
Pricing
Single Rider + Each Additional Rider
Day ride (own bike) €380 + €120
Day ride (with rental) €480 + €200
Weekend — 2 days from €900 + €300
4-Day Classic from €1,800 + €600
All prices include 20% VAT.
Accommodation and train travel not included unless otherwise arranged.
Ready to Ride the Alps?
These tours fill quickly in summer. Get in touch early to secure your dates — Ian will reply personally to discuss the right ride for you.
Or contact us with any questions — no obligation, just a conversation about what's possible.
