If there is one event that should be on every cyclist’s wish list, it would have to be La Marmotte. Set in the middle of the spectacular French Alps, La Marmotte takes riders over three of France’s most revered HC climbs; Col du Glandon, Col du Galibier and of course, Alpe d’Huez. In the space of just 174 kilometres riders climb a total of 5,180 metres, making it one of the most difficult one day cycling events in the world. Whilst it is amateur event, La Marmotte still attracts a strong field of riders, with the fastest participants crossing the line in just under 6 hours! The event starts at the base of Alpe d’Huez, at Bourg d’Oisans and finishes at the top of the famous 21-hairpin climb.

Entries for La Marmotte go on sale in early November every year and usually sell out in less than two days. The event is run by Sports Communication who are well-known in France for putting on some of the best and most well-organised events in the country.