This route has plenty to offer cyclists who like a challenge.
Advanced routes - Alpe d'Huez: discreet 21 bends
The alternative climb from Bourg to Alpe d'Huez that isn't as famous as the 21 Bends
From Bourg d'Oisans, follow the RD 1091 towards Grenoble. In Rochetaillée, turn right towards Allemont on the D526.
Cross the bridge over the Romanche and turn right towards Villard-Reculas on the D44. the road rises gently at a regular incline up to Villard-Reculas, passing through the hamlets of Raffour and La Beurrière.
Cycle through Villard-Reculas, past the Town Hall and take the small roaf to Huez-en-Oisans.
If you go through Huez, this will take you back to the 21 hairpin bend no. 6. Then just go back down to Bourg d'Oisans.
| Route length | 43km |
| Route time | 3 hours |
| Maximum altitude | 2,100m |
| Minimum altitude | 720m |
| Max incline | 8% |
Cycle hire
Bike Hire in Alpe d'Huez
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Road bike hire
Top-quality bike shop located at the foot of Alpe d’Huez’s iconic 21 bends
This shop offers bike hire, premium cycling kit and on-the-spot servicing for riders tackling Alpe d’Huez. Since 2011, it’s been a go-to stop for cyclists looking for performance, style and friendly support.
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Mountain bike hire 
Mountain bike hire
Ski and bike hire shop that's situated just moments from the lifts
Open all year round, this shop offers expert ski and bike hire at the foot of the bike trails in Alpe d’Huez.
What to see
Sights in Alpe d'Huez
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Notre Dame des Neiges Church
Church with 13 stained glass windows
This church's architecture, stained glass windows and organ are great works of art. Come to see them! The church is open every day. The museum of Huez and Oisansalso organises free visit once weekly all year round (rendezvous on the church square).
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Espace Patrimone
Cultural museum of miners in the village of Alpe d'Huez
This museum showcases the lives, tools and exploits of miners between the 12th to 14th centuries.
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Brandes Archaeological Site
Medieval archaeological site and ruins
The highest medieval village in Europe (XII-XIV) related to the operation of a silver mine.
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Maison du Bouquetin, Allemont
The house of the ibex
The ibex, a typical animal of the Alps fauna which was on the brink of extinction at the end of the 19th century, is now being reintroduced in different parts of the Alps.
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Bourg d'Oisans Museum
Museum of minerals and fauna of the Alps
Located in the attic of the church of Bourg d'Oisans and is accessed by a building to the left of the church.
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Grotte de Glace
Ice Caves at the top of the DMC lift
Winter ice caves with sculptures that change every year.
Where to lunch
Restaurants in Alpe d’Huez
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La Folie Douce Petite Cuisine Restaurant
Great value effecient self-service restaurant right in the heart of slopes
This great value self-service restaurant adjoins the Folice Douce and is situated at the top of the Marmottes lift.Â
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Chalet du Pèr'Sillé Restaurant
Restaurant in one of the oldest barns in Alpe d'Huez serving dishes cooked over embers
Cosy and traditional restaurant with a typical mountain atmosphere. You'll enjoy the simple, local family-style dining, cooked in the restaurants signature style.
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A l'Esperance des Grandes Rousses Restaurant
Gourmet fine dining restaurant in the Grandes Rousses Hotel, serving meals all day
Situated within the Grandes Rousses Hotel & Spa in Alpe d’Huez, L'Espérance offers a warm and inviting dining experience centred on sharing and authenticity.Â
Read more about A l'Esperance des Grandes Rousses Restaurant
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L'1 Pres Vue Restaurant
French restaurant at the bottom of the resort with affordable lunch menu
Traditional French cuisine served either on the sunny terrace for afternoon dining or the comfortable cosy dining area for lunch or dinner.
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Le Genepi Restaurant
French bistronomic restaurant with beautifully-presented dishes and sunny terrace
Serving modern French brasserie cuisine in a lovely setting, this is a popular restaurant to try good-quality French cuisine in Alpe d'Huez.
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Au Dahu Grillé Restaurant
Homely and friendly small bar and restaurant with a sunny terrace to relax on
French run restaurant and bar with a nice terrace to sit out in the sun.Â
What to do
Things To Do in Alpe d’Huez
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Snowshoe walks
Private snowshoe walks for friends and family
Strap on your snowshoes and explore the winter trails of Alpe d’Huez with a qualified instructor, discovering the mountains at a slower pace and in complete tranquillity. Snowshoe walks are suitable for all ages and require only a basic level of fitness, making them perfect for families, mixed groups, or anyone looking for a peaceful winter escape. Each outing is rated by difficulty, allowing you to choose the walk that best suits your group.
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Biathlon activity
Biathlon group activity for 3-6 people
Step away from the bustle of the ski slopes and try your hand at biathlon, a brilliant winter adventure that mixes cross-country skiing with precision rifle shooting. It is an exciting blend of endurance and focus, and it suits mixed groups beautifully. With adapted equipment and clear guidance, it is accessible to absolute beginners as well as those keen to push themselves a little.
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Family activities
Family fun and friendly competition on snow
Discover a brilliant line-up of family activities in Alpe d’Huez, perfect for bringing everyone together on the snow. Whether your crew loves a challenge, prefers shared adventures or wants to try something completely new, there is an experience for every age and level.
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Ski touring
Ski touring for all abilities, with experienced guides, in a friendly and safe environment
Discover the freedom of ski touring and explore the quieter side of Alpe d’Huez, where wide-open landscapes, peaceful summits and fresh air set the tone. With friendly, uncompetitive groups and routes for every level, you can take things at your own pace and enjoy the mountains in a whole new way.
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Winter and Summer Paragliding
25min paragliding flight from the top of the slopes in Alpe d'Huez
You'll be sure to enjoy some amazing views and an experience like no other!
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Golf Course de l'Alpe d'Huez
Alpe d'Huez golf course open throughout the summer season
Golf de l'Alpe d'Huez is open every day throughout the summer. The 9-hole golf course is accompanied by a large driving range, pro-shop and a clubhouse serving snacks and drinks.
