Les Dix Alpes
 


Frequently Asked Questions

 

Participants
 
Who is the tour aimed at ? 
The tour is aimed at individuals who want to challenge themselves. It's definitely a challenge to cycle the whole distance between Como in the north of Italy and Nice at the Mediterranean. But the tour is also meant for the people who like to travel by bicycle through the beautiful Alps. It is not a problem if you take a seat some days in the supporting vehicles. If you like the challenge or if you prefer more the journey through the mountains, you are both welcome in "Les Dix Alpes". 
  
Am I capable of doing this ? 
If you are in good health, love a challenge and enjoy cycling, you are capable of completing "Les Dix Alpes". We average 110 km per day and you can ride at your own pace. You will be served lunch at the mid-point of each day's ride, and our crew are always available to assist you if you are having difficulties of any kind. On any day when you don't feel up to biking, you can also catch a ride on one of our support vehicles. 
 
 
Before you start
 
What about insurance ?
You are responsible for obtaining health and travel insurance, including emergency rescue. Further information will be given in the brochure. Individuals without proper insurance will not be allowed to participate.
 
 
On the Tour
 
Where do cyclists stay and sleep ? 
During "Les Dix Alpes" we camp in well equipped campsites that provide many creature comforts. The first day in Como and the last day in Nice you stay in a hotel. 
At several campsites you have the possibility to rent a bungalow or site caravan at own expense. The campgrounds are most of the time on the outskirts of cities on our route. 
 
What will I eat ? 
On biking days, our cook will prepare four meals. We know how important food is on a trip like this. You will be treated to generous portions of food that will be a combination of regional recipes and meals made from local ingredients as well as some of the cook's specialties. We will also provide energy bars, clean water and an energy boosting beverage.
Everyone is of course free to explore and sample the culinary hot spots along the way. We believe eating the Italian and French cuisine is part and parcel of the journey. 
For those with dietary restrictions and/or ferocious appetites, you need not be concerned. We take all this in consideration when preparing your meals. You may go to sleep exhausted, but never hungry.
 
Who will carry my equipment ?
Support vehicles will carry your personal items including tent, sleeping bags, camping gear and spare parts. In addition, support vehicles will also carry such items as food, water, kitchen equipment and emergency medical items. While riding, you only have to carry some basic tools, a spare tube, water, and a snack. 
 
 
Climate
 
What kind of weather should I expect ?
The weather conditions in the Alps in the second half of the summer season are normally fine with temperatures between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius. It is not uncommon that we will get some rain showers along the way. Keep in mind that the temperatures can drop down considerably in the Alps at altitudes above 2000 meter. On a whole, we expect too have good weather for cycling. Not too hot, and rarely too cool or wet; and in the end it's all part of the adventure. 
    
 
Road conditions
  
What is the terrain like ?
"Les Dix Alpes" is all together 1100 kilometer which is divided into 10 cycling days. An average of around 110 kilometers. Except from the first and last day you can expect some serious climbing.
  
  
Bike
 
What kind of bike should I use ?
The bike is without doubt the most important part of your equipment. The tour can be completed on any kind of bicycle as long as it is entirely human powered. The route is paved all the way. Road bikes are the most efficient way to cover the distance, but hybrids, mountain bikes and trekking bikes might be more comfortable. It's very personal which bicycle you prefer. Enough gears, strong legs and common sense, and you can do the job.
  
 
Non-cyclist 
 
I don't want to cycle, but can I still come ?
Yes, there is a limited number of places for people who like to join "Les Dix Alpes", but don't like to cycle. You can take part in the organization around the cyclists and join the other staff with their daily activities like setting up campsites, providing the meals, visit local markets, etcetera.
 
 
What to bring
 
What do I need to bring along ?
Detailed information will be sent in the brochure.