The Aravis pre-Alps

Day 1 - Annecy/Albertville - Height gain: 1570 m - Distance: 80 km
An easy warm up on the leg to Menthon-St-Bernard is followed by the steep climb to the Col de la Forclaz and its magnificent belvedere overlooking Lake Annecy. The descent to Faverges is followed by a second, much easier climb to the Col de Tamié and its abbey, which produces a delicious cheese - called Tamié, of course.

Day 2 - Albertville/Flumet - Height gain: 1800 m - Distance: 60 km
This strenuous stage begins with the climb to the village of Queige and a succession of superb hairpins to another Col de la Forclaz, this time above Ugine. From Ugine, the route goes up a quiet little road for 16 km, climbing steadily all the way. After the descent to Héry sur Ugine, one final effort is required to get to Flumet.

Day 3 - Flumet/Thorens-Glières - Height gain: 1300 m - Distance: 80 km
The route through picturesque villages and vast alpine pastures provides wonderful open views of the Mont Blanc Massif. The day begins with the climb to the Col des Aravis and a lovely descent to La Clusaz and Saint-Jean-de-Sixt. Do not underestimate the very sustained climb to the Glières Plateau.

Day 4 - Thorens-Glières/Andilly - Height gain: 110 m - Distance: 40 km
This traverse of the Bornes Plateau and Mont Salève goes over no fewer than nine passes. Fantastic views of Geneva, its lake and the Jura Mountains provide just reward.

Day 5 - Andilly/Annecy - Height gain: 560 m - Distance: 50 km
A gentle return leg to Annecy along quiet country roads. A short detour to see the impressive Pont de la Caille suspension bridge over the Usses Gorge is well worth the effort.