Rapha Cent Cols Challenge - Alps

19 August — 29 August 2012

The original CCC route. It climbs many of the better-known climbs on the way down to Nice, from where it heads west to Provence via the Alpes-Maritimes. Once over the ‘Giant of Provence’, the departments of the Drome and Vercors provide some spectacular settings for the most dramatic part of the route. The ‘Circuit de la Chartreuse’ is the gateway back to the Hautes Alpes and the mountain top event finish above Lake Annecy.

    “What an event! Up before 6.30am most days, rarely checking into the next hotel before 18.00hrs. If you get a chance to ride this stunning event, take it! Train first, mind. Possibly the best sportive in the world!”

    “Living the life of a Pro for ten days was a real eye-opener… I have nothing missing in my life and yet I just want to relive those ten days over and over again.”

Cent Cols

Introducing the 50 Cols

In response to several requests, for those for whom a ten-day event is too long, we are now pleased to be able to offer the option of riding stages One to Five, or stages Six to Ten of the Cent Cols Challenge. The Cinquante (50) Cols Challenge will allow riders to fit in easily with the main group : they will either leave or arrive at the event on the Rest Day, so they will have time to pack / unpack their bikes without the event being in full momentum.  

To ride five stages of these Challenges is an achievement in itself worthy of deep respect : most CCC riders say that days two, three and four are the hardest. The body is fighting to adapt to the 'shock' of such intense riding. You will experience the unique magic of this event, but will avoid the deep sense of fatigue (and subtle elation!) that comes in the second week.

What's Included?

Twelve nights accommodation, twin occupancy (six nights for 50 Cols riders)

All breakfasts and evening meals at the hotel and restaurants
Snacks and lunches on riding days (excluding energy drink, bars, gels)
Experienced guides, mechanic and four dedicated support vehicles
Monthly newsletters from Phil Deeker
A three month training plan from La Fuga Performance

What’s Not?

Flights
Flight transfers / travel to / from start hotel
Travel Insurance
Drinks with evening meals
Incidental Expenses
Tips and gratuities (not expected but warmly received!)

How Do I Book?

Click on the “Book this Tour” button at the top of the page from where you will be guided through the booking process online. At this stage you will be asked to pay a £500 non-refundable deposit. Your remaining balance needs to be paid at least 60 days before departure. La Fuga will send you a reminder via email closer to the time.

If you would like to book on the 50 Cols the booking procedure is the same as the 100 Cols with a £500 non-refundable deposit payable. You will be presented with the 100 Cols price when booking online but this will be corrected on the invoice sent out to you.

The Knowledge

  • Price: £1980 (twin occupancy)
  • Price 50 Cols: £1190 (twin occupancy)