Leaving the dry hot Mediterranean and French Riviera from Nice, we heading north up into the big mountains, Cime de la Bonette is claimed to be the highest surfaced road pass in Europe however this is a hot topic. On our rest we will offer an additional trophy; Col de la Cayolle which is claimed to be the most beautiful climb in Europe, maybe it is? You can decide. While on the historic route de Nepolean, we venture through the wilderness between France and Italy. These are enormous mountains and big days out on the bike with spectacular views in every direction. We will follow the epic ride of Cadel Evans up Lautaret and Galibier for second of the 3 highest passes. After Galibier, we have one of the longest descents to Bourg-d'Oisans for a few days to ride Alpe d’Huez and Les Deux Alpes. After our mountain experience, we head down to Grenoble to prepare for the second half of our Grand Alpes tours which will rendezvous with the Tour de France.