New Look Haute Route Welcomes Cyclists to Conquer Pyrenees and Alps in 2024
In the realm of cycling, where the pursuit of pedal-powered triumph meets the awe-inspiring majesty of mountains, the Haute Route has long stood as a beacon for those seeking the ultimate two-wheeled adventure. Now, under the stewardship of new ownership—France Vélo Evénements (FVE)—the Haute Route beckons cyclists to inscribe their names into the annals of cycling lore with not one but two extraordinary events in 2024: Haute Route Pyrenees and Haute Route Alps.
The transition from the Ironman Group to France Vélo Evénements has injected new energy into the iconic series, promising cycling enthusiasts the same quintessential Haute Route experience that has captivated riders since its inception in 2011. Marius Louvet, the newly appointed deputy director, assures riders that while there might be some tweaks behind the scenes, the soul of the event remains intact.
Registrations for these epic adventures are now flung wide open, inviting cyclists from all corners to partake in the ultimate cycling challenges. Created in early 2023 as a collaborative effort between the French Cycling Federation and the Hopscotch Sport agency, FVE is a venture aimed at amalgamating the best of both organizations to provide cyclists with an unparalleled riding experience.
“While some improvements are taking place behind the scenes, rest assured that Haute Route remains committed to preserving the essence of the event,” says Marius. And indeed, the familiar faces of the Haute Route saga will continue to grace the cycling stage. Jean-François Alcan, the seasoned course director, will weave his magic to design a route that challenges and captivates participants. Fergus Grant, affectionately known as the ‘Lantern Rouge’ of Haute Route, retains his role as the inspirational speaker, offering words of encouragement at the start line and triumphantly welcoming riders at the finish, often atop a mountain peak.
“For seven years I have had the privilege of cheering all sorts of cycling fans from start to finish. It doesn’t matter what level they are, or even if they have fallen outside the time bracket, the enormous sense of achievement from accomplishing a Haute Route is the same for all,” says Fergus.
Haute Route Pyrenees: The cycling spectacle kicks off with the Haute Route Pyrenees, a five-day extravaganza from 1st to 5th July 2024. Covering over 14,000 meters of elevation, this journey through the Pyrenees promises breathtaking scenery and challenges riders with stages that touch Tour de France favorites like Bagnères-de-Luchon, Cap de Long, Col du Portet, Tourmalet, and Aubisque. Limited to 500 participants, the event aims for exclusivity, providing an intimate and immersive experience.
Haute Route Alps: For those yearning for the summit, the Haute Route Alps, spanning from the 25th to 31st August 2024, presents a seven-day odyssey through the majestic Alps. With an invigorating climb of over 20,000 meters of elevation, this pinnacle of the Haute Route series ensures an unparalleled cycling adventure. With only 550 registrations available, this is an opportunity for cyclists to etch their names into the scrolls of cycling lore.
“We want the Haute Route to be an opportunity for cyclists of every level to push their limits and create some unforgettable memories alongside fellow cyclists that celebrate the triumph of human spirit and camaraderie, all the while providing a sense of exclusivity and support akin to professional cycling races,” says Jean-François.
The Haute Route beckons. The question is, are you ready to heed the call and embrace the cycling adventure of a lifetime? The mountain roads await, and the challenge is yours for the taking.
2024 Haute Route Calendar:
- Haute Route Pyrenees: 1 – 5 July 2024
- Haute Route Alps: 25 – 31 August 2024