French Alps:

You’ll get warmed up with the Alpe d’Huez and Galibier passes en route to the fortified Alpine town of Briancon. The citadelle is a marvel of military engineering designed to defend the border and strategic route.  A hearty meal of local specialties like fondue or tartiflette will fuel you up for what’s in store.

Italy Piedmont:

Crossing into Italy into the Piedmont region, you’ll visit the Sacra di San Michele, a unique abbey perched high above the valley. Author Umberto Eco is to have been inspired by it for his novel “In the Name of the Rose”

Italian Lakes:

Arriving on the shores of the Italian Lakes, you can visit the Borromean Islands for a change of pace. Naturally you’ll want to savor authentic Italian food. Your riding gear might be a little tighter by the end of the ride.

Swiss Bliss

Now that you are in the groove, it’s time for the San Bernadino and Splugen passes.  Located just north of the lakes, you’ll have a ball on these iconic roads. Get ready for countless turns, great views and plain old fun.

Chill at Lake Como:

Time for some well deserved rest at Lake Como where you can relax, visit Bellagio or the Moto Guzzi museum or do whatever you like.

Stelvio Pass

Next up will be an unforgettable day. The Stelvio pass and its 75 hairpin turns are waiting for you. The subject of many youtube videos, you can finally make your own. A technical challenge that will put your skills to the test. The reward is a view of the glacier and satisfaction that you successfully conquered this iconic pass.

Dolomites:

The Dolomites will definitely impress you as will the ride around these natural wonders. Quaint towns line our path, perfect for a stop to rest and enjoy la dolce vita. Continuing the trek around the Dolomites you’ll be surprised to cross the border into Austria.

Austria:

Picture postcard scenery surrounds you. It’s almost unreal. Just as unreal is the mighty Grossglockner. Wait until you tackle this behemoth and get up close and personal with its glacier. Like the Stelvio, this is on many riders’ bucket lists, and one of those roads that you’ll want to ride again and again.

A visit of Innsbruck is in order. This Olympic city will charm you with its classic architecture and old world style. You’ll fall in love with the schnitzel, the pastries, the beers…Sadly you’ll have to say Auf Wiedersehen to Austria as Switzerland is beckoning.

Switzerland:

Known for its collection of high Alpine passes, you’ll feel like James Bond as you take to the Furka, Grimsel, and Fluela passes. After all the high altitude excitement, a little rest at Interlaken is well deserved. Visit the iconic Mount Eiger or Jungfrau via one of Switzerland’s glacier trains.  It wouldn’t be right not to load up on delicious chocolate and Swiss cheese.  (in Switzerland they just call it cheese).

As you head back to Grenoble, the highest peak lies in your path. The Mont Blanc. Treat yourself to a cable car ride to get up close to this giant. You’ll enjoy the town of Chamonix with its ambiance and authentic charm. Fill up on more wonderful food while you can. One last fondue or raclette is a must.