Serre Chevalier Altitude Challenge

The Serre Chevalier Altitude Challenge works differently from a classic race: from a single start hub near Briançon, riders head off up five climbs in turn, and only the time spent on those timed ascents counts towards the ranking.

The gravel course has its own set of climbs. Its decisive one is the Col des Gondrans, an old military road worn by time that climbs to the top of the Montgenèvre ski area with views over the Vauban forts and the Queyras. Riders also tackle the Croix de Toulouse, nicknamed the Alpe d'Huez of the Briançonnais for its 25 hairpins in five kilometres, the climb to the Lac de l'Orceyrette and a track to the Chalets de Sachas, hamlets reachable only part of the year once the snow melts.

The organisers sum it up in three words, freedom, pleasure and discovery, and promise a relaxed atmosphere where the Alpine scenery counts as much as the final result. A road course runs on the same day over the Izoard and the Granon.