Switzerland & France: Lake Geneva, Annecy & Valleys of the Alps

Your vacation is about to begin! Spend your first night aloft and arrive ready for an unforgettable trip.

A VBT representative will greet you at the Geneva Airport to start your adventure off right. A complimentary car service will whisk you to your centrally located hotel in Chamonix. From here, you are perfectly positioned to explore this charming mountain resort town at your leisure.

Enjoy your included breakfast this morning and take a final stroll through Chamonix. At 12:00 p.m., board our private motorcoach to Switzerland. Be sure to pack a lunch before departing.

All guests will meet at 2:00 p.m. in the lobby of the Swiss hotel for a safety and bike-fitting session led by your Trip Leaders. By the end of the session, your rooms will be ready, and you’ll have time to settle in and change into your biking clothes. Later, enjoy a warm-up ride along scenic country roads through charming Swiss villages.

This evening, gather for a welcome reception and dinner at the hotel restaurant, where you’ll savor the specialties of the Valais canton.

Today's Ride Choices

Afternoon: Warm-Up Ride — 7 km (5 miles)

What to Expect:

The warm-up ride offers a chance to get comfortable with your bike as you pedal along quiet country roads. Expect occasional uphill climbs as the route takes you through several charming Swiss villages.

Cumulative Distance Range: 7 km (5 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

After a hearty European breakfast, set out on the tranquil Route du Rhône bike path, following the Rhône River upstream. As you begin your ride, you leave behind the jagged cliffs of the Dent de Morcles, dramatic rocky slopes that mark the westernmost reaches of the Bernese Alps, plunging steeply into the Rhône Valley. Ahead, the breathtaking vistas of Switzerland’s majestic alpine range unfold.

Pedal into a valley blanketed with lush vineyards. The Valais is Switzerland’s third-largest wine region, and some of the classified Grand Crus of Sion—such as Fendant and Syrah—may sound familiar.

Your ride along the river is leisurely yet rich with variety. You’ll pass quaint villages tucked into the valley’s gentle slopes and spin past farms and orchards bursting with apples, apricots, pears, cherries, strawberries, and raspberries. Even the legendary Valais headwind, which sweeps through the valley from late morning to evening on clear days, won’t diminish the beauty of this scenic journey into a hidden gem of Switzerland.

As you approach Sion, the capital of the Valais canton, two dramatic rock outcrops—Tourbillon and Valère—rise into view, crowned by their historic castles. There will be time to stroll the pedestrian streets of the Old Town, following a VBT optional walk prepared by your Trip Leaders. This charming area is rich in culture and history, adorned with stone fountains and lined with lively cafés.

After enjoying lunch on your own, return to your hotel, where you’ll have time to relax or unwind in the thermal pools—your entry is included.

Tonight, enjoy dinner at the hotel’s restaurant.

Today's Ride Choices

Morning: Saillon to Fully and SIon — 35 km (22 miles)

Afternoon: Sion to Saillon — 20 km (12 miles)

What to Expect:

Today’s ride is easy and mostly flat, following a well-paved bike path nearly the entire way. In good weather, a headwind typically begins blowing up the valley around mid-morning, which may slow your pace slightly. If you choose the longer route option, expect some traffic as you enter the city of Sion; however, local drivers are generally accustomed to cyclists and drive with care.

Cumulative Distance Range: 20 — 55 km (12 — 35 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast, you cycle out of Saint-Maurice into the Chablais region, a spectacular alpine area that straddles Switzerland and France. Your route continues to follow the Rhône River, guiding you toward Lake Geneva. As you leave the village, you may catch glimpses of the sharp, soaring peaks of the Dents du Midi range. Despite the dramatic mountain backdrop, today’s ride is relaxed, tracing a scenic valley along well-paved bike paths and passing traditional Swiss chalets, manicured gardens, and postcard-perfect ponds.

At Le Bouveret, just before the river empties into Lake Geneva, your route gently bends to the right, crossing the Rhône Bridge and leading into the shaded wetlands of Les Grangettes, a peaceful nature reserve teeming with biodiversity, including a variety of migratory birds. This morning’s pleasant spin ends at the eastern tip of Lake Geneva in Villeneuve—or “New Town”—which actually boasts a charming Old Town, with cobbled streets and inviting cafés. It’s an ideal place for a short stroll and a relaxing break. From here, you may choose to cycle or shuttle to Montreux.

If you opt to ride, follow a scenic lakeside route, passing the iconic Chillon Castle and continuing on to Montreux, a popular resort town along Lake Geneva’s shores. Admire elegant villas, beautifully maintained gardens, and stop at Place du Marché, where a statue of Freddie Mercury gazes out over the lake. For fans of the band, Queen, a visit to the free Exhibition Space of the Mountain Studios, located inside the casino, may be a highlight of the day. The lake promenade is the perfect spot to enjoy lunch on your own.

Afterward, continue by private motorcoach into France and the picturesque village of Talloires, nestled along the shores of stunning Lake Annecy. Settle into your hotel, a hidden gem perched on the water’s edge, offering magnificent views of the Massif des Bauges to the west and La Tournette and Col de Forclaz to the east. Once a centuries-old abbey, the hotel has hosted notable guests such as Mark Twain and Paul Cézanne. Look up to see the Saint Germain Abbey and Chapel, perched high on a distant hillside.

This evening, stroll into historic Talloires for dinner on your own. You might consider trying raclette, featuring the famed cheeses of the Haute-Savoie, paired with a local wine such as Chignin or Apremont.

Today's Ride Choices

Morning: St-Maurice to Villeneuve — 31 km (19 miles)

Afternoon: Villeneuve to Montreux — 7 km (4 miles)

What to Expect:

Today’s ride is easy and mostly follows a flat, paved bike path until Villeneuve. In good weather, a headwind typically blows up the valley from mid-morning to evening, which may slow your pace. From Villeneuve to Montreux, the first two miles are along a bike lane shared with pedestrians, followed by a gently rolling road with regular traffic. Due to these conditions, this section of the route requires some caution and is therefore rated easy to moderate.

Cumulative Distance Range: 7 — 38 km (4 — 24 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast

Begin your ride by cycling south from your hotel in the Haute-Savoie region. Today’s focus is the breathtaking Lake Annecy—Europe’s cleanest lake, thanks to environmental protection measures enacted in the 1960s—and its namesake city. Your loop follows a well-paved bike path past the staggering sheer cliffs of the Bauges Mountains, which rise dramatically from the water.

As you approach the city of Annecy, you may choose to follow signs to the Paccard Bell Foundry. Now in its seventh generation, this renowned family business has cast more than 120,000 bells for institutions worldwide—including those at Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris. In 1950–51, the foundry created 57 replicas of the Liberty Bell, one for each of the then 48 U.S. states, honoring America’s role in Europe’s liberation during World War II. Its largest creation, the 66,000-pound World Peace Bell, hangs in Newport, Kentucky, and rings daily at 12:05 p.m., just after the city’s other noontime bells.

Later, arrive in historic Annecy, often called the “Pearl of the French Alps” for its stunning location nestled between mountains and lake. You’ll have time to explore its pedestrian streets, lined with charming canals, stone bridges, and arched passageways that evoke the feel of Venice. The Old Town is filled with historic architecture and unique charm. Highlights include the Palais de l’Isle, a 12th-century prison set on an islet in the River Thiou; the Château d’Annecy; the 16th-century Cathedral of Saint-Pierre; and the romantic Pont des Amours (Lover’s Bridge). Enjoy lunch on your own at a local café—perhaps while watching swans glide by—and treat yourself to a locally made crème glacée for dessert.

Afterward, return to the hotel by shuttle, or continue riding on the longer option that completes a full loop around Lake Annecy. Along the way, you’ll pass a popular beach—perhaps stop to dip your toes in the crystal-clear water—and several picturesque lakeside villages. In the distance, catch a glimpse of the Aravis Mountains, known for their dramatic hairpin turns and steep climbs, often featured in the Tour de France.

Later, relax with a swim in the lake, stroll the vegetable gardens near the old cloister, or unwind at the hotel spa. This evening, enjoy dinner at the hotel’s gourmet restaurant, featuring a delicious menu of French specialties.

Today's Ride Choices

Morning: Talloires to Annecy — 26 km (16 miles) | Annecy to Talloires — 13 km (8 miles) | Annecy Walk — 2 km (1 mile)

What to Expect:

Today’s ride follows a well-paved road and bike path. There is a steep downhill section shortly after Talloires, followed by a flat route all the way to Annecy. The area—especially the stretch before Annecy—is very popular, and cyclists may encounter skaters and pedestrians on the path. The afternoon ride is easy, though it does include one climb. Note: In summer, the route can be crowded with other cyclists, and extra caution is needed when passing through villages due to car traffic. An optional independent ride may be available today for experienced cyclists. Ask your Trip Leader for details.

Cumulative Distance Range: 13 —39 km (8 — 24 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

After a hearty French breakfast, say goodbye to your hosts and set out on one of the most beautiful rides of the region. Leaving the southern tip of Lake Annecy, you’ll cycle along a quiet, smooth bike path as the Bauges Range rises on one side and the Beaufortain Mountains soar on the other. Gorges and caves in the distance reveal that this area has been inhabited since the Neolithic Age.

After a gentle climb at Ugine, you leave the Haute-Savoie and meet the Arly River, which you follow to Albertville. A gateway to some of the finest international ski areas in the Alps, Albertville famously hosted the 1992 Winter Olympics. After your included lunch, take a short walk to the neighboring medieval City of Conflans. A designated French historic site and monument, the picturesque Cité de Conflans is enclosed by 14th-century walls and offers panoramic views of the Combe de Savoie Valley as well as the Bauges and Chartreuse Mountains.

In the afternoon, continue cycling along a newly paved bike path that follows the Isère River into fertile farmlands. It’s common to see local farmers tending to their pépinières, or vine nurseries, along the way. Your ride ends in the tranquil pond district known as Lac de Carouge.

Later, settle into your French château, where you’ll visit the 15th-century wine cellar and enjoy a wine tasting before sitting down to a delicious dinner prepared under the care of your gracious hosts. It’s a perfect end to a stunning day and an ideal setting to sample some of the region’s finest wines.

Note: For the tour starting on September 14, 2025, you will stay at Château Brachet near Aix-les-Bains, where you’ll dine for two nights. Cycling routes on the following day will vary slightly.

Today's Ride Choices

Morning: Talloires to Cité de Conflans — 35 km (22 miles)

Afternoon: Cité de Conflans to Lac de Carouge — 27 km (17 miles)

What to Expect:

With the exception of a short climb into the City of Conflans, today’s ride is very easy, following mostly bike paths along rivers and quiet country roads. All in all, it’s a thoroughly enjoyable day of cycling.

Cumulative Distance Range: 27 — 62 km (17 — 39 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today promises another ride through stunning cultural and natural beauty. Departing from your château, you cycle along gently rolling, scenic country roads, winding through small, charming villages and vineyards. You skirt the base of Mont Granier, a towering crag and iconic landmark of the lush Chartreuse region, before reaching the peaceful Lake of Saint-André. From there, you follow the course of the small L’Albanne River into Chambéry, a picturesque city with a rich history as the capital of the Kingdom of Savoy from the 13th to the 16th centuries. The Château des Ducs de Savoie still dominates the skyline, nestled among a maze of medieval alleyways in the city center. Pause here for lunch on your own, and take time to admire the 15th- and 16th-century estates lining the shop-filled rue Croix-d’Or.

Your return ride follows a different, easy bike path. Avid riders may opt for a longer, scenic route offering views of the distant Tarentaise peaks, some of which rise above 11,000 feet. The Col du Galibier in the sunny Maurienne Valley, at 8,681 feet, rivals the Col de l’Iseran as one of the highest mountain passes in France. Here stands a monument to Henri Desgrange, the founder of the Tour de France in 1903. Epic climbs are sure to come to mind as you sample the captivating cycling of the Alps—without the big hills.

Back at your château, take time to relax by the swimming pool and prepare for a final festive dinner, featuring the delicious French specialties of the region.

Today's Ride Choices

Morning: Chateau de Challes to Lac Saint-André to Chambéry — 27 km (17 miles)

Afternoon: Chambéry to Chateau de Challes — 9 km (5 miles) | Chambéry to Barby to Chateau de Challes Plus — 17 km (10 miles) | Chambéry Walk — 2 km (1 mile)

What to Expect:

Today’s ride follows easy, paved, rolling country roads to Lake of Saint-André, passing vineyards along the way. From there, a flat, paved bike path leads you through shaded parks into the historic center of Chambéry. As you enter the city, the path becomes a bike lane, and you’ll briefly ride over a short stretch of cobblestone. Expect some traffic when entering and exiting Chambéry. The afternoon ride follows a mostly flat bike path back to the hotel. An optional 8-km loop includes a short, very gradual climb into the first hills of the Massif des Bauges. It’s a must-ride if you’d like to enjoy sweeping views of the valley, Mount Granier, and the southern Alps from a beautiful vantage point.

Cumulative Distance Range: 9 — 44 km (5 — 27 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Travel to your hotel in Lyon, an elegant and centrally located 5-star property, arriving at approximately 10:30 a.m. VBT provides city information with highlights and recommendations for what to see and do during your stay. Spend the rest of the day relaxing or begin exploring Lyon at your own pace—either on foot or by using the city’s extensive network of buses, trams, and the subway.

Your hotel is located on the Presqu’île, the peninsula between the two rivers, in a vibrant area known for its shopping, pedestrian-friendly streets, museums, and charming historic architecture.

Included Meals: Breakfast

After an included breakfast this morning, complimentary transportation to Lyon Airport will be provided. The drive takes approximately 60 minutes, depending on traffic, for your departing flight.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Your tour begins at 12:00 p.m. at the pre-night hotel in Chamonix, or at 2:00 p.m. at the first hotel in Switzerland. Your Trip Leaders will meet you in the lobby of your Swiss hotel, wearing VBT staff apparel.

Regardless of how you travel to Saillon or Lavey-les-Bains, please be sure to have lunch before meeting your VBT Trip Leaders.

The official tour start is at 2:00 p.m. in the lobby of your Swiss hotel:

• Hotel les Bains de Saillon in Saillon for tours between April and June 2025

• Grand Hotel des Bains in Lavey-les-Bains for tours between September and October 2025

Here, you’ll participate in a safety and bike-fitting session led by your Trip Leaders. Biking clothes are not required for this meeting. By the end of the session, your room will be ready, and you’ll have time to settle in and change into your cycling gear.

Later in the afternoon, enjoy a warm-up ride along quiet country roads through charming Swiss villages.

In the evening, gather for a welcome reception and dinner at the hotel restaurant, where you’ll savor specialties of the Valais canton.

Today's Ride Choices

Afternoon: Warm-Up Ride — 6 km (3 miles)

What to Expect:

The warm-up ride offers a chance to get comfortable with your bike as you pedal along quiet country roads. Expect occasional uphill climbs as the route takes you through several charming Swiss villages.

Cumulative Distance Range: 6 km (3 miles)

Included Meals: Dinner

After a hearty European breakfast, set out on the tranquil Route du Rhône bike path, following the Rhône River upstream. As you begin your ride, you leave behind the jagged cliffs of the Dent de Morcles, dramatic rocky slopes that mark the westernmost reaches of the Bernese Alps, plunging steeply into the Rhône Valley. Ahead, the breathtaking vistas of Switzerland’s majestic alpine range unfold.

Pedal into a valley blanketed with lush vineyards. The Valais is Switzerland’s third-largest wine region, and some of the classified Grand Crus of Sion—such as Fendant and Syrah—may sound familiar.

Your ride along the river is leisurely yet rich with variety. You’ll pass quaint villages tucked into the valley’s gentle slopes and spin past farms and orchards bursting with apples, apricots, pears, cherries, strawberries, and raspberries. Even the legendary Valais headwind, which sweeps through the valley from late morning to evening on clear days, won’t diminish the beauty of this scenic journey into a hidden gem of Switzerland.

As you approach Sion, the capital of the Valais canton, two dramatic rock outcrops—Tourbillon and Valère—rise into view, crowned by their historic castles. There will be time to stroll the pedestrian streets of the Old Town, following a VBT optional walk prepared by your Trip Leaders. This charming area is rich in culture and history, adorned with stone fountains and lined with lively cafés.

After enjoying lunch on your own, return to your hotel, where you’ll have time to relax or unwind in the thermal pools—your entry is included.

Tonight, enjoy dinner at the hotel’s restaurant.

Today's Ride Choices

Morning: Saillon to Fully and SIon — 35 km (22 miles)

Afternoon: Sion to Saillon — 20 km (12 miles)

What to Expect:

Today’s ride is easy and mostly flat, following a well-paved bike path nearly the entire way. In good weather, a headwind typically begins blowing up the valley around mid-morning, which may slow your pace slightly. If you choose the longer route option, expect some traffic as you enter the city of Sion; however, local drivers are generally accustomed to cyclists and drive with care.

Cumulative Distance Range: 20 — 55 km (12 — 35 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast, you cycle out of Saint-Maurice into the Chablais region, a spectacular alpine area that straddles Switzerland and France. Your route continues to follow the Rhône River, guiding you toward Lake Geneva. As you leave the village, you may catch glimpses of the sharp, soaring peaks of the Dents du Midi range. Despite the dramatic mountain backdrop, today’s ride is relaxed, tracing a scenic valley along well-paved bike paths and passing traditional Swiss chalets, manicured gardens, and postcard-perfect ponds.

At Le Bouveret, just before the river empties into Lake Geneva, your route gently bends to the right, crossing the Rhône Bridge and leading into the shaded wetlands of Les Grangettes, a peaceful nature reserve teeming with biodiversity, including a variety of migratory birds. This morning’s pleasant spin ends at the eastern tip of Lake Geneva in Villeneuve—or “New Town”—which actually boasts a charming Old Town, with cobbled streets and inviting cafés. It’s an ideal place for a short stroll and a relaxing break. From here, you may choose to cycle or shuttle to Montreux.

If you opt to ride, follow a scenic lakeside route, passing the iconic Chillon Castle and continuing on to Montreux, a popular resort town along Lake Geneva’s shores. Admire elegant villas, beautifully maintained gardens, and stop at Place du Marché, where a statue of Freddie Mercury gazes out over the lake. For fans of the band, Queen, a visit to the free Exhibition Space of the Mountain Studios, located inside the casino, may be a highlight of the day. The lake promenade is the perfect spot to enjoy lunch on your own.

Afterward, continue by private motorcoach into France and the picturesque village of Talloires, nestled along the shores of stunning Lake Annecy. Settle into your hotel, a hidden gem perched on the water’s edge, offering magnificent views of the Massif des Bauges to the west and La Tournette and Col de Forclaz to the east. Once a centuries-old abbey, the hotel has hosted notable guests such as Mark Twain and Paul Cézanne. Look up to see the Saint Germain Abbey and Chapel, perched high on a distant hillside.

This evening, stroll into historic Talloires for dinner on your own. You might consider trying raclette, featuring the famed cheeses of the Haute-Savoie, paired with a local wine such as Chignin or Apremont.

Today's Ride Choices

Morning: St-Maurice to Villeneuve — 31 km (19 miles)

Afternoon: Villeneuve to Montreux — 7 km (4 miles)

What to Expect:

Today’s ride is easy and mostly follows a flat, paved bike path until Villeneuve. In good weather, a headwind typically blows up the valley from mid-morning to evening, which may slow your pace. From Villeneuve to Montreux, the first two miles are along a bike lane shared with pedestrians, followed by a gently rolling road with regular traffic. Due to these conditions, this section of the route requires some caution and is therefore rated easy to moderate.

Cumulative Distance Range: 7 — 38 km (4 — 24 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast

Begin your ride by cycling south from your hotel in the Haute-Savoie region. Today’s focus is the breathtaking Lake Annecy—Europe’s cleanest lake, thanks to environmental protection measures enacted in the 1960s—and its namesake city. Your loop follows a well-paved bike path past the staggering sheer cliffs of the Bauges Mountains, which rise dramatically from the water.

As you approach the city of Annecy, you may choose to follow signs to the Paccard Bell Foundry. Now in its seventh generation, this renowned family business has cast more than 120,000 bells for institutions worldwide—including those at Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris. In 1950–51, the foundry created 57 replicas of the Liberty Bell, one for each of the then 48 U.S. states, honoring America’s role in Europe’s liberation during World War II. Its largest creation, the 66,000-pound World Peace Bell, hangs in Newport, Kentucky, and rings daily at 12:05 p.m., just after the city’s other noontime bells.

Later, arrive in historic Annecy, often called the “Pearl of the French Alps” for its stunning location nestled between mountains and lake. You’ll have time to explore its pedestrian streets, lined with charming canals, stone bridges, and arched passageways that evoke the feel of Venice. The Old Town is filled with historic architecture and unique charm. Highlights include the Palais de l’Isle, a 12th-century prison set on an islet in the River Thiou; the Château d’Annecy; the 16th-century Cathedral of Saint-Pierre; and the romantic Pont des Amours (Lover’s Bridge). Enjoy lunch on your own at a local café—perhaps while watching swans glide by—and treat yourself to a locally made crème glacée for dessert.

Afterward, return to the hotel by shuttle, or continue riding on the longer option that completes a full loop around Lake Annecy. Along the way, you’ll pass a popular beach—perhaps stop to dip your toes in the crystal-clear water—and several picturesque lakeside villages. In the distance, catch a glimpse of the Aravis Mountains, known for their dramatic hairpin turns and steep climbs, often featured in the Tour de France.

Later, relax with a swim in the lake, stroll the vegetable gardens near the old cloister, or unwind at the hotel spa. This evening, enjoy dinner at the hotel’s gourmet restaurant, featuring a delicious menu of French specialties.

Today's Ride Choices

Morning: Talloires to Annecy — 26 km (16 miles) | Annecy to Talloires — 13 km (8 miles) | Annecy Walk — 2 km (1 mile)

What to Expect:

Today’s ride follows a well-paved road and bike path. There is a steep downhill section shortly after Talloires, followed by a flat route all the way to Annecy. The area—especially the stretch before Annecy—is very popular, and cyclists may encounter skaters and pedestrians on the path. The afternoon ride is easy, though it does include one climb. Note: In summer, the route can be crowded with other cyclists, and extra caution is needed when passing through villages due to car traffic. An optional independent ride may be available today for experienced cyclists. Ask your Trip Leader for details.

Cumulative Distance Range: 13 —39 km (8 — 24 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

After a hearty French breakfast, say goodbye to your hosts and set out on one of the most beautiful rides of the region. Leaving the southern tip of Lake Annecy, you’ll cycle along a quiet, smooth bike path as the Bauges Range rises on one side and the Beaufortain Mountains soar on the other. Gorges and caves in the distance reveal that this area has been inhabited since the Neolithic Age.

After a gentle climb at Ugine, you leave the Haute-Savoie and meet the Arly River, which you follow to Albertville. A gateway to some of the finest international ski areas in the Alps, Albertville famously hosted the 1992 Winter Olympics. After your included lunch, take a short walk to the neighboring medieval City of Conflans. A designated French historic site and monument, the picturesque Cité de Conflans is enclosed by 14th-century walls and offers panoramic views of the Combe de Savoie Valley as well as the Bauges and Chartreuse Mountains.

In the afternoon, continue cycling along a newly paved bike path that follows the Isère River into fertile farmlands. It’s common to see local farmers tending to their pépinières, or vine nurseries, along the way. Your ride ends in the tranquil pond district known as Lac de Carouge.

Later, settle into your French château, where you’ll visit the 15th-century wine cellar and enjoy a wine tasting before sitting down to a delicious dinner prepared under the care of your gracious hosts. It’s a perfect end to a stunning day and an ideal setting to sample some of the region’s finest wines.

Note: For the tour starting on September 14, 2025, you will stay at Château Brachet near Aix-les-Bains, where you’ll dine for two nights. Cycling routes on the following day will vary slightly.

Today's Ride Choices

Morning: Talloires to Cité de Conflans — 35 km (22 miles)

Afternoon: Cité de Conflans to Lac de Carouge — 27 km (17 miles)

What to Expect:

With the exception of a short climb into the City of Conflans, today’s ride is very easy, following mostly bike paths along rivers and quiet country roads. All in all, it’s a thoroughly enjoyable day of cycling.

Cumulative Distance Range: 27 — 62 km (17 — 39 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today promises another ride through stunning cultural and natural beauty. Departing from your château, you cycle along gently rolling, scenic country roads, winding through small, charming villages and vineyards. You skirt the base of Mont Granier, a towering crag and iconic landmark of the lush Chartreuse region, before reaching the peaceful Lake of Saint-André. From there, you follow the course of the small L’Albanne River into Chambéry, a picturesque city with a rich history as the capital of the Kingdom of Savoy from the 13th to the 16th centuries. The Château des Ducs de Savoie still dominates the skyline, nestled among a maze of medieval alleyways in the city center. Pause here for lunch on your own, and take time to admire the 15th- and 16th-century estates lining the shop-filled rue Croix-d’Or.

Your return ride follows a different, easy bike path. Avid riders may opt for a longer, scenic route offering views of the distant Tarentaise peaks, some of which rise above 11,000 feet. The Col du Galibier in the sunny Maurienne Valley, at 8,681 feet, rivals the Col de l’Iseran as one of the highest mountain passes in France. Here stands a monument to Henri Desgrange, the founder of the Tour de France in 1903. Epic climbs are sure to come to mind as you sample the captivating cycling of the Alps—without the big hills.

Back at your château, take time to relax by the swimming pool and prepare for a final festive dinner, featuring the delicious French specialties of the region.

Today's Ride Choices

Morning: Chateau de Challes to Lac Saint-André to Chambéry — 27 km (17 miles)

Afternoon: Chambéry to Chateau de Challes — 9 km (5 miles) | Chambéry to Barby to Chateau de Challes Plus — 17 km (10 miles) | Chambéry Walk — 2 km (1 mile)

What to Expect:

Today’s ride follows easy, paved, rolling country roads to Lake of Saint-André, passing vineyards along the way. From there, a flat, paved bike path leads you through shaded parks into the historic center of Chambéry. As you enter the city, the path becomes a bike lane, and you’ll briefly ride over a short stretch of cobblestone. Expect some traffic when entering and exiting Chambéry. The afternoon ride follows a mostly flat bike path back to the hotel. An optional 8-km loop includes a short, very gradual climb into the first hills of the Massif des Bauges. It’s a must-ride if you’d like to enjoy sweeping views of the valley, Mount Granier, and the southern Alps from a beautiful vantage point.

Cumulative Distance Range: 9 — 44 km (5 — 27 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

After an included breakfast, travel by private motorcoach to the Hotel Carlton Lyon – MGallery by Sofitel, arriving at approximately 10:30 a.m. Your vacation concludes here. The hotel is a 5-minute walk from the Metro Bellecour station, which provides easy access to Lyon’s railway stations and Lyon–Saint Exupéry Airport.

Included Meals: Breakfast