How to train for La Marmotte Granfondo Alpes
La Marmotte Granfondo Alpes starts in Bourg-d'Oisans and links Col du Glandon, Col du Télégraphe, Col du Galibier and Col du Lautaret before the final climb to Alpe d'Huez.
When: Usually held in late June or early July; the exact date changes from year to year.
Entries: Entries usually open in early autumn and sell out quickly.
What La Marmotte Granfondo Alpes demands
After about 160 km and three long Alpine passes, the day ends with the climb to Alpe d'Huez, so pacing and fuelling on the earlier passes decide the finish.
The course
- Starts in Bourg-d'Oisans and finishes at the top of Alpe d'Huez.
- One route of about 177 km with about 5,000 m of climbing.
- In order, the route crosses Col du Glandon, Col du Télégraphe, Col du Galibier and Col du Lautaret, then climbs to Alpe d'Huez.
- The final climb to Alpe d'Huez is known for its 21 numbered hairpins.
From the organizer's published course information and recent editions. Details can change between editions, so check the official site before you enter.
Your preparation roadmap
24 weeks recommendedWinter on the trainer
Work on sustained climbing power and pacing so you still have legs for the final climb to Alpe d'Huez.
2x25 to 30 min at 88 to 92% FTP (sweet spot) at a seated cadence of 75 to 85 rpm.
40 min at 88 to 92% FTP (sweet spot) after 2 hours of endurance riding.
6 hours outdoors with several sustained climbs of 45 minutes or more.
4x10 min at 55 rpm at 85 to 90% FTP to build muscular torque for steep pitches.
Routes (approximate, recent editions)
- About 177 km and 5,000 m of climbing from Bourg-d'Oisans to the top of Alpe d'Huez
Key climbs & sectors
- Alpe d'Huez — 15.3 km at 7.3%
- Col du Galibier — 18.2 km at 6.7%
- Col du Télégraphe — 12.3 km at 6.7%
- Col du Glandon
- Col du Lautaret
Could you handle Alpe d'Huez?
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Frequently asked questions
How hard is La Marmotte Granfondo Alpes?
After about 160 km and three long Alpine passes, the day ends with the climb to Alpe d'Huez, so pacing and fuelling on the earlier passes decide the finish. Listed routes: about 177 km, with about 5,000 m of climbing.
How many weeks do I need to train for La Marmotte Granfondo Alpes?
This roadmap uses 24 weeks: Base training plan (8 weeks), FTP training plan (7 weeks), Climbing training plan (7 weeks), then a 2-week taper in June. The emphasis follows the course: sustained climbing power, pacing at altitude.
Can I prepare for La Marmotte Granfondo Alpes indoors on a trainer?
Work on sustained climbing power and pacing so you still have legs for the final climb to Alpe d'Huez. On the trainer: Galibier sweet spot block, Alpe d'Huez fatigue simulation, Low-cadence mountain torque. Outdoors, on roads similar to the course: All-day alpine ride.
What are the key climbs and sectors of La Marmotte Granfondo Alpes?
Key climbs and sectors on recent courses: Alpe d'Huez, Col du Galibier, Col du Télégraphe, Col du Glandon, Col du Lautaret. Check the official site for the current course.
When do entries open for La Marmotte Granfondo Alpes?
Entries usually open in early autumn and sell out quickly. Usually held in late June or early July; the exact date changes from year to year. Entry details are on the official site: https://marmottegranfondoalpes.com.
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TrainCraft is not affiliated with La Marmotte Granfondo Alpes. Route figures and elevations are approximate and based on recent editions. Always verify current routes, dates and entry regulations on the official La Marmotte Granfondo Alpes website.