Alpe d'Huez Climb, Mountain road climb in Isère, France
The Alpe d'Huez Climb is a mountain road ascending 13.8 kilometers from Le Bourg d'Oisans to the summit with 21 hairpin turns and an average gradient of 8.1 percent. The route maintains consistent steepness throughout most of its length before easing toward the top.
The road became a cycling landmark when it hosted the first Tour de France mountain-top finish in 1952, won by Fausto Coppi. Since then it has remained one of the most significant stages in the race's calendar.
The numbered hairpin turns display the names of past stage winners, creating a living record of cycling history along the mountainside. Visitors can trace the evolution of victories across different eras while climbing.
The gradient remains between 8 and 10 percent for most of the climb, with the final section becoming noticeably easier. Plan for a steady pace and allow time for breaks regardless of how you travel the route.
At turn seven, thousands of Dutch supporters gather during Tour de France stages in a spot known as the Dutch Corner. This location transforms into a festive gathering space that defines the cycling experience for many fans.
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