The perfect introduction to road racing, with a variety of distances to choose from. A scenic cycle along the Rhone river, through undulating vineyards and quaint wine making villages with some short, sharp climbs, depending on your choice of route, in a relaxed atmosphere. Join us for a week of cycling where we will build up to Vin du Valais sportive on the 1st August, Swiss National day. This week is ideal for families want to cycle as well.
We can suggest family afternoon activities or activities for non cyclists.
Day 0 - Sunday 26 July - Arrive
Transfer pick-up from Sion or Sierre train station where we will take you to our base in the stylish ski resort of Crans-Montana where you will able to unpack and prepare your bike. A team dinner and introductions in the hotel followed by a briefing about the plan for the next day and the week ahead.
Day 1 - Monday 27 July
Distance: Full day - 85km / Half day - 55km
Elevation Gain: Full day - 2,500m / Half day - 1,400m
The day starts with a quick debrief before we start with a descent down to the valley floor of Valais. It’s not long before we start our climb up to towards the ski resort of Grimentz. The road is a series of tight switch backs through the vine yards before the road hugs the steep gorge and opens up to amazing views of the glaciers. The goal is to reach the stunning glacial Moiry Dam with it aqua blue water. The roads after Grimentz are quiet as it’s a dead end road to the dam.
Day 2 - Tuesday 28 July
Distance: Full day - 80km / Half day - 60km
Elevation Gain: 2,300m / Half day - 1,200m
The route takes you on a loop to the famous spa ski resort of Leukerbad. The start of the climb starts in Sierre and Salgesch, known as the “Sun City” as well as the number of vine yards! The quiet old road with tunnels cut into the side of the rock offers a nice distraction for the climb up to the resort for lunch A quick dip in the spa in Leukerbad for anyone wanting to have a relax after lunch before the descent down to the valley floor.
Day 3 - Wednesday 29 July
An easy day and the choice of exploring Crans-Montana secret roads on an electric bike or a rest day relaxing by the lake.
Day 4 - Thursday 30 July
Distance: Full day 85km / Half day 60km
Elevation Gain: Full day 2,500m / Half day 1,200m
A cycle up to the stunning Lac de Derborence and national park. The route passes through several tunnels carved into the rocks before opening up for the final climb and lunch next to the stunning naturally formed glacial lake. The route is a dead end so the roads are quieter than usual.
Day 5 - Friday 31 July
Another option for a rest day or an easy spin. The bibs and your complimentary bottle of wine will be collected for the race the next day.
Day 6 - RACE DAY - Saturday 1 August - Swiss National Day.
Distance: Long - 120km / Medium - 100km / Short - 65km
Elevation Gain: Long - 2,560m / Medium - 1,800m / Short - 1,00m
Climbs: Lens - 1,148m Ave. Gradient 7.5%, Varen - 751m Ave. Gradient 6.5%
An early breakfast to get everyone prepared for the race. We will then take the short transfer to the start line in Sion. The Kudos team will be on hand to assist and for any last minute changes and escort you to the start/finish line for the controlled start. All very civilised and relaxed, as you would expect in Switzerland.
After a beautiful race through the vine yards, we gather at the end of the race for a traditional Swiss lunch and local Swiss wine, which is the least you deserve after cycling through all those vineyards!
It’s back to the hotel for an afternoon relax or a swim in the local lake to freshen off before drinks and dinner in back at base.
The last evening will involve a few drinks and dinner.
Day 7 - Departure
You will be transported to the train station for your return journey back to the airport.
Transfers from Sion or Sierre train station to the hotel in Crans-Montana
Registration to the Cyclosportive Vins du Valais
7 nights Bed & Breakfast accommodation. Excluding dinner, lunch & drinks
Experienced qualified cycling guides during the week with support vehicle. There will be no support during the event
Complimentary OTE sports nutrition
Kudos Cycling branded clothing
Rates
Prices from £1,800 per person.
Single or double occupancy available upon request.
Deposit – 50% required 120 days prior to the event to confirm your place. Please confirm if you would like to go ahead with the booking and an invoice with deposit information will be sent.