Take on the ultimate Alpe d’Huez
cycling challenge
A five‑day cycling adventure culminating in as many ascents of the 21 hairpins as you can conquer.
6th to 11th June 2026. brought to you by Peak Retreats
ranked #4 in The Times best holidays in France 2026
EPIC21
EPIC21
Ride with Andrew Feather
Join one of the UK’s most accomplished hill‑climb athletes on the Epic21 challenge.
Join Andrew Feather, one of the UK’s most successful hill‑climb specialists. He’s a multi‑time British National Hill Climb Champion, with titles in 2018, 2020, 2022 and 2023, and holds the course record on The Struggle with a remarkable 11:48 ascent.
In 2025, Andrew made headlines by becoming the only rider to beat world champion Tadej Pogačar at his own charity hill climb, finishing ahead of 1,189 participants.
Andrew is a regular contributor and firm favourite on GCN.
Ride Epic21 alongside an athlete who truly knows how to conquer iconic climbs.
Andrew sat down with Scott from Cycle the Nation to chat about all things cycling, hill-climbing and what they’re looking forward to on the Epic21 in Alpe d’Huez. Watch the video to view the interview.
THE CHALLENGE
ALPE D’HUEZ
Take on the ultimate cycling goal in France’s legendary Alpe d’Huez. This self‑guided, five‑day trip builds toward a single unforgettable challenge day: riding the iconic 21 hairpin bends as many times as you can. Whether that’s 2, 3, 4, 5 or even 8 ascents, the target is entirely yours.
For most road cyclists, completing three climbs is a huge achievement. Those aiming higher – especially riders used to ultra‑endurance events – may set their sights on eight ascents, the equivalent of ‘Everesting’.
Whatever your goal, if you’re ready for a big 2026 challenge and want a milestone to train for, Epic21 is for you.
The French Alps
who is it for?
Epic21 is designed for:
Keen road cyclists looking for a major goal to work toward in 2026.
Riders aiming to tackle Alpe d’Huez - whether that’s 2 ascents or pushing yourself further.
Cyclists who love iconic climbs and want to ride them at their own pace with structure and support.
Clubs, pairs and solo riders who want a shared challenge in an incredible location.
Anyone motivated by a big personal achievement, regardless of whether you’ve done an event like this before.
The Location
You’ll be based in Alpe d’Huez in Isère, the heart of France’s most iconic cycling region. The area is packed with legendary climbs, breathtaking scenery and routes made famous by the Tour de France – all waiting for you to explore at your own pace.
From the 21 switchbacks of Alpe d’Huez to surrounding classics like the Col de la Croix de Fer, Col du Glandon and the quieter ascent via the Col de Sarenne, this region offers some of the most memorable riding in Europe. Each day gives you the chance to discover a different route, take on a new climb, or simply enjoy the stunning mountain landscapes.
Our Founders have personally researched almost a dozen different itineraries suitable for various abilities, from easy to super hard, and we’ll provide GPX files and notes so you can ride independently and confidently.
It’s the perfect setting for a big cycling goal – challenging, beautiful and unforgettable.
45° 5' 38.22" N
6° 4' 16.356" E
“Every time I watch the Tour de France I'm yearning to be there and now I am. I'm 100% in because they're an award winning ski company. And if you're award-winning, you've been running for 20 plus years, you're doing something right and you can place your trust in them. I'm absolutely stoked. I cannot wait to be there.”
— Scott, Cycle the Nation
THE TRIP
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The challenge is the culmination of our unique five-night trip, which brings together a group of keen amateur cyclists looking to push themselves to their limits. You’ll spend a few days enjoying the superb cycling and mythical rides independently, using our curated itineraries, before taking on the ultimate challenge, Epic21. After which, there will be a chance to celebrate everyone’s achievements at a prize-giving dinner.
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Choose whether to drive down to the Alps with all your kit or fly with (or without) your bike.
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You’ll be staying in 5-star apartments with superb facilities including indoor pool and spa.
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Enjoy a continental breakfast each morning, and get together for an organised group dinner every evening.
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For everyone to get the most out of the trip, we’ll group riders together with those of a similar level.
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Whether you bring your own or hire from our specialist bike shop partner, we’ve got you covered.
PRICES
PRICES START FROM £734 PER PERSON
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The trip costs from £734pp for 5 nights including transfer from Lyon (if arriving on suggested flights), shared accommodation with private bedroom, continental breakfasts, five 3-course dinners, suggested self-guided itineraries, the challenge, a cycling jersey and prize giving.
REGISTER.
Ready for the Epic21 challenge? Reserve your place on this unique trip. Numbers are limited. Complete the form and our team will be in touch.
Got questions? Call our friendly team who will be happy to chat - 023 9283 9310.