Mount Ventoux or Alp D'Huez?

badback
badback Posts: 31
edited September 2009 in Road beginners
Hi,

Just wondering which is better to visit for three days. Am thinking of going next year some time so some advice on time of year would be great too (weather etc.). In fact any logistical info would be much appreciated

Comments

  • bobtbuilder
    bobtbuilder Posts: 1,537
    You have more climbing options around Alpe d'Huez (Croix de Fer, Les Deux Alpes, Col d'Ornon, Galibier, Telegraphe).

    Ventoux is the only mountain in it's area, although there is plenty more good riding in the area.

    Weather - usually very hot in July & August. You can get thunderstorms around Alpe d'huez, but they're usually in the evening.

    I've ridden both areas, and although Ventoux is a legendary climb, I loved the Alps far more.

    Check out Russell Standring's site here for more info than you can shake a stick at: http://www.grenoblecycling.com/
  • badback
    badback Posts: 31
    Wiked, thanks v much for info. Have heard similar rumours that Ventoux is bit isolated and alps has more around it.

    Cheers
  • Wallace1492
    Wallace1492 Posts: 3,707
    Alps every time. Much more scope, much more fun.
    "Encyclopaedia is a fetish for very small bicycles"
  • greasedscotsman
    greasedscotsman Posts: 6,962
    Went to Alpe d'Huez in June one year and it was like a ghost town, nothing open at all. Not really a problem as you can easily find a place to stay in or around Bourg d'Osions, but the climb is much better in July or August when there are a few more people around.

    Or why not wait until the Tour route is announced? If they are using the Alpe it would be a great place to be for three days or so. Don't be scared about trying to find a place to stay, there are plenty of hotels up there.

    But then Ventoux is a good choice too. If your there for three days you could ride all three ascents of the climb? It is a bit more remote, but the riding in the area is very good, just not mountains. Depends on what your looking to do?
  • flanners1
    flanners1 Posts: 916
    How about the Col de Joux Plane? Samoens/Morzine area of the Les Alpes? Just got back today and having MTB'd there for 10 years the road riding is also very very nice.
    Colnago C60 SRAM eTap, Colnago C40, Milani 107E, BMC Pro Machine, Trek Madone, Viner Gladius,
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  • teagar
    teagar Posts: 2,100
    If it's mountain climbing you're interested in, the Pyrenees are always worth a good shout. They're more remote, which is nicer on the bike, and, importantly, usually cheaper than the Alpes.

    Plenty of (seriously tough!) Tour climbs in and around Luchon.


    Doubt that'll be much use, but it's worth bearing in mind.
    Note: the above post is an opinion and not fact. It might be a lie.

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