Tag: Amateur Cyclist

Are you an amateur cyclist with pro cycling inclinations, or a cyclist looking to experience the type of race that mirrors a pro cycling event? There are plenty of events or trips you could take with a bicycle travel company to have this type of experience. But there’s only one amateur race that comes close to riding in something like the Tour de France.

If you desire to participate in an event that offers an amateur race/ sportive with multiple stages, then the Haute Route Race may be the event you are seeking. It features two route choices of either a 3 day or a 7 day stage event in the mountains of France.

What Is The Haute Route Race?

The Haute (French for high) Route is an amateur race that takes place in the mountains of France over three or seven days at the end of August every year. The event was first held in 2011 but the event website states it is 115 years old. A multi-day sportive/ race exclusively for amateur cyclists, this event is for the cyclist who craves an experience that gives them a pro experience.

The organizers state the Haute Route has “fully supported stages, professional guidance, the possibility to book accommodations and stage-to-stage logistic transportation through the organization, and social events…the Haute Route fosters a supportive environment that encourages participants to achieve their cycling dreams.”

The Haute Route hosts 50 nationalities from around the world. Many of the riders return to ride the event the following year. It covers 808 kilometers (502 miles) with substantial elevation gain. 98% of registered riders finish the event. Over 7 days, cyclists ride from Nice to Thonon-les-Bains.

The Haute Route Race Features Two Stage Route Choices

During the seven day stage event, cyclists experience a tough journey from stage 1 through stage 7. They ride some of the most renowned climbs made famous by pro events, such as the Tour de France. Cyclists will conquer climbs like the Alpe d’Huez, which is always accompanied by the statement that this is where the tour is won or lost. Here is a map of the climbing that occurs.

If the 7 day race seems like it will be too hard or you feel you might not be able to complete it, then you can choose to ride a much abbreviated version of the route over 3 days that is 404 kilometers (251 miles). This route seems to be popular among participants. It also starts in Nice but ends with the Alpe d’Huez climb.

Registration, Cost, and Inclusions for Haute Route France

With its history as an amateur stage race, the Haute Route tends to be popular among cyclists. For 2026, the 3 day event is sold out, and the 7 day event has limited spots available.

Registration for the 3 day event is 799 euros ($940). The seven day stage race is 2,099 euros ($2,460). So, not cheap by any means. If you get in early, you can get a slightly lower price for either stage race choice.

Both events feature the following inclusions:

• Official event jersey
• Backpack and travel bag transported to each hotel
• Daily briefings, escort vehicles, marshals, broom wagons, and medical assistance
• Medical assistance during the race, multiple refreshment stations
• 15 minute massage after each stage, lunch, access to Haute Route Village, coverage by media teams
• Ranking on timed sections, finisher t-shirt, finisher medal, participation in the closing ceremony

Last Thoughts

The Haute Route Race/ Sportive for amateur cyclists sounds like a well-supported and challenging event for cyclists who wish to test what they are made of while riding in a mock pro event. While definitely not cheap to register, the inclusions seem worthwhile.

The nice thing about this event is that it requires no elite standings or record of races won, etc. If you see yourself as an amateur cyclist who likes to race or even just a serious fitness-driven athlete, you can be part of the Haute Route ride.

But hurry up and get registered if you still can for the 2026 event, or you can wait until next year and get in some good training when both route/ stage choices will be available.