FAQ's
How fit do I need to be?
You don't need to be Lance Armstrong level to come on our trips but a reasonable level of bike fitness will be required for you to enjoy the experience and get the most out of it.
For most of our trips you can expect to be riding a 4-6 hour a day and much of that time will be spent going uphill! It's not a race and you will have the opportunity to ride at a pace that suits you. If you have any doubts or concerns please don't hesitate to contact us to discuss this further and give you confidence in your decision to book.
What bike?
You'll need a road bike in good working order with gearing to suit the mountainous terrain that you'll be tackling. Having low gears at your disposal will assist you to keep pedaling smoothly up the long climbs that you'll encounter. Compact or triple chainsets are the way to go to make life easier for you. Gearing can often be quickly and relatively cheaply altered by replacing the cassette on the rear wheel. Give us a call if you need to know more.
How big are the groups?
Our maximum group size is 12. We operate a high staff/customer ratio to ensure your safety and enjoyment, therefore a full group of 12 would enjoy the support of 3 staff members and a support vehicle.
What support is offered?
Vehicle support offers you first aid facilities, essential spares and tools, spare clothing, snacks and drinks and the peace of mind that if you run out of steam you've always got the option of jumping in the van!
You will also receive the support of at least one of us riding with the group, spending some time with each rider to help motivate, advise and observe how you are doing to help you get the most out of your ride.
Are transfers included?
Yes, unless otherwise stated, our programmes all include return tranport in our minibuses from Geneva airport to our chalet in Bellentre. Geneva offers lots of flight options from different UK airports including low cost flights with Easyjet. Journey time is around 2 hours. Contact us so that we can recommend best arrival times to coincide with our transfers and to help you take advantage of cheap and convenient flights.
Can I bring a non cycling partner/friend?
Certainly. Bellentre and it's surrrounds are a beautiful and relaxing place in spring and summer with a large selection of walking trails. Non cyclists can, space permitting, join us in the support vehicles to enjoy the scenery and still be part of the team. Contact us to discuss a discount for non cyclists.
What's the accommodation like?
At our Bellentre base you'll stay in our main chalet or neighbouring aparments/gites. The accommodation is clean, comfortable with a big emphasis on good home cooking. When 'on the road' we stay in small family run hotels that provide us with ideal locations for our stopovers. Our prices are based on twin share occupancy. Single rooms are usually available on our trips, please contact us to find out what the supplement will be.
Do people bring their own bikes?
Yes, the vast majority of riders on our trips bring their own bikes. Bike bags and boxes are becoming more affordable and can often be hired for bike shops too.
Can I hire a bike?
Yes, bikes are available to hire from any of the 3 bike shops in Bourg St Maurice. Contact us in advance and we can arrange this for you.
