It doesn't get more mythical than Alpe d'Huez. Probably the most famous climb in the world and the scene of countless legendary battles. Each of the 21 numbered hairpins is dedicated to a Tour de France icon.

   We take a 20km downhill spin to the foot of the climb. From here it's 14km to the finish line where we will have gained 1,128m giving an average gradient of 8.1%, The first couple of kilometres are the steepest after which it settles into a steady rhythm. The professional photographers stationed over the last few hairpins ensure that your efforts will be captured for posterity. Smile if you have any energy left!

   After a brief coffee stop, we descend around 3km and take the stunning 'balcony' ride which hugs the mountainside. Lunch is at a restaurant on the valley floor. We then take the minibus back to Morzine where we will celebrate Bastille Day.