Conquer Avoriaz: The Classic Tour de France Showdown

The experience

Avoriaz is cycling history baked into a mountainside. Famous for its frequent appearances in the Tour de France—and Bernard Hinault's legendary exploits—this climb is a must-do for any cyclist visiting the Haute-Savoie.

The ascent begins right out of Morzine and is characterized by its exceptionally well-engineered hairpins and wide, sweeping roads. It feels like a true stadium for cycling. As you climb higher, the dramatic, futuristic wooden architecture of the Avoriaz ski resort suddenly appears on the cliffs above. It is a steady, predictable climb that allows you to lock into a powerful rhythm from bottom to top.

Pro tips

• Find your tempo: The beauty of Avoriaz is its consistency. The gradient rarely fluctuates wildly, allowing you to pick a comfortable gear and hold a steady cadence all the way up.
• Enjoy the hairpins: The wide corners are relatively flat on the outside. Use them to stand up, stretch your legs, and grab a drink without losing momentum.
• A unique finish: Avoriaz is a car-free resort. Once you hit the summit, the tarmac ends and gives way to horse-drawn carriages and pedestrian paths, so be prepared for a firm finish line at the town entrance.