Cycling The Alps: Is it not only for experienced cyclists?

Cycling in the alps isn’t just for experts however it does require you to put some effort in. Depending on what your personal goals and objectives are, the cycling can be as easy or as hard as you want and tailored to your standard. If you are unsure or would like to discuss in more detail please do not hesitate to get in touch.

How much training should I do before coming?

Depending on your experience as a cyclist and your objectives for the season. In order to get the most enjoyment and most benefit, you want to be as fit as possible and that includes cycling up hills. For more specific information please do not hesitate to get in touch.

Can I hire a bike?

If you can’t bring your own bike it is possible to hire a quality road bike. We would need to know your exact measurements and requirements as soon as possible to ensure the bike was fitted properly. We would require you to bring your own pedals.

For more information on prices and bikes available please do not hesitate to get in touch.

Can I hire a power metre?

We can arrange for you to hire a power metre during your time here. Please let us know in advance.

What gears do you recommend?

This is very important as it will make a big difference to your trip. For cycling up long cols and multiple climbs having the correct gearing to suit the terrain is crucial.

While very strong climbers may prefer a standard double 53-39 chainset or (more likely) semi-compact 52-36t chainset, most riders will appreciate a compact 50-34t chainset paired to an 11-28t cassette. If you know climbing really isn’t your strength, opting for a cassette with a 30 or 32-tooth sprocket (if your bike will accept it) will give you an extra gear or two.

If you are unsure about anything please do not hesitate to get in touch. It’s better to have the correct setup before you travel.

Travel Information

Airport transfers can be arranged from Geneva airport. Transfer times usually take 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours from Geneva airport by car or by train. Flights are also available from Milan or Bern and these are usually a 3 hour transfer.

If you are going to fly here, you will need to pack your bike carefully to avoid damage. The best option is a rigid bike travel box which you can hire in the UK.

We recommend using Bikeboxalan.com

Flying with your bike

easyJet accepts bicycles as hold luggage, classified as “Large Sports Equipment”. The fee is currently £35 or €45 each way, and the weight allowance is 23 kg. See easyJet’s website for more details.

British Airways will let you take your bike for free so long as your total luggage weighs no more than 23 kg. Otherwise, the fee is €50 (at the airport, €43 online in advance). See the BA website for more details.

Swiss will let you take your bike for free so long as your total luggage weighs no more than 23 kg. Otherwise, the fee is €50. See the Swiss website for more details.

What accommodation do you recommend?

Depending on what type of Kudos Cycling package you have booked, we have selected exceptional hotels suitable to meet your needs and are ideally situated to maximise your cycling experience.

Training is built around riding but that doesn’t mean that you can’t spoil yourself with comfortable accommodation at the end of the day.

Some of the hotels we work with.

Hotel Vatel, Martigny – Four star hotel

A great location in the Valais with cycling options in all directions. The modern hotel is only two hours away from Geneva airport by road and can easily be reached by train. The hotel has a secure garage for the bikes.

Les Bains de Saillon, Saillon – Four star hotel

The brand new hotel and thermal centre of the "Bains de Saillon" is ideally located in the heart of the Valais, offers a unique thermal experience with several heated pools, a thermal river, a semi-Olympic pool, saunas and hammam. Perfect for a post ride relax or to rest the body on a recovery day!

Hotel du Lac, Crans Montana – Three star hotel This newly refurbished bike friendly hotel in Crans Montana is fantastic for anyone wanting a quick weekend get away. The hotel is situated in the smart ski resort of Crans Montana, which is bike friendly, meaning it meets the Swiss bike friendly requirements.

Chalets

If you would prefer a chalet with your own private chef and top end service, this can be arranged. We work with a number of chalet companies. Expect a high level of service and luxury.

Food & Nutrition

Food and nutrition is important to ensure you have enough energy for cycling around the Alps. The hotels and chalets we have selected provide the highest quality food and service that you would expect to find in Switzerland. As cyclists, we know how important it is to refuel properly before and after cycling.

Do I need travel/health insurance?

It is very important that you have an up to date and thorough medical and personal accident insurance policy.

We will ask for all this information prior to your arrival in Switzerland. It is worth double checking that your policy includes cover for sports activities.

There are several insurance companies that specialise in this type of insurance for cyclists travelling abroad.

Non-Europeans must make their own arrangements to ensure adequate insurance and health-care cover that specifically includes cycling in the Alps. Please get in touch if you need assistance.

Are bikes stored in a secure location?

All bikes will be left in a safe locked location. In some cases, we will use hotels that are bike friendly hotels and have met the strict Swiss requirements to be certified bike friendly.

What to pack?

• It goes without saying but ensure your bike is in good mechanical working order before you arrive. It's worth supporting your local bike shop to get it thoroughly checked over. Quality tyres and brakes is a must in the alps. If you prefer to travel without your bike please contact us and we will look to arrange a bike that you can rent for your trip.
• Your cycle helmet that must be worn at all times on the bike.
• Appropriate cycle clothing for summer and potentailly wet conditions: especially warm gloves, over shoes and a waterproof jacket.
• Please note that a kit list is provided with the joining instructions that you receive with confirmation of your booking, however if you have any further questions please do not hesitate to get in touch.