7 Major Cycling Routes: What Every Rider Should Know

The cycling world is a bit obsessed with its greatest challenges. Ask any serious rider, and you’ll hear about the legendary “majors”—the 7 iconic cycling routes that every cyclist dreams of conquering. They’re more than just roads on a map. Each one comes with a different flavor, a reputation, and a story you’ll want to tell for years.

If you think these routes are just for the pros, think again. Regular riders tackle these every year, mixing sweat, grit, and the occasional snack break. Names like the Alps, the Pyrenees, and the classic Passo dello Stelvio aren’t just for TV—they’re real, ride-able, and loaded with scenery that’ll blow your mind. Sure, they’re tough, but isn’t that why we ride?

Ever noticed how folks talk about “doing the Alps,” or “completing the Route des Grandes Alpes”? There’s a reason. These aren’t just roads—they’re milestones. Whether you’re planning to take on these giants or just want to know what all the fuss is about, knowing the big seven gives you real direction for your bucket list.

Before you sign up for a massive tour or tell your friends you’re heading out for a ‘quick spin’ on the Ventoux, stick around. I’ll break down what these routes are, why they matter, and how you can start planning for your own big ride.

• Big 7: The Legends of Cycling Routes
• What Sets Them Apart
• How to Prepare for a Major Route
• Tips from Cyclists Who Have Done Them

Big 7: The Legends of Cycling Routes

Here are the seven routes that every serious cyclist should know. These aren’t your local park circuits—these are legendary, each with its own character and challenge. If you ever wondered why cyclists talk about these routes like they’re old friends or arch enemies, it’s because taking them on is a rite of passage. Let’s break down the big names:

• Route des Grandes Alpes (France) – Stretching from Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean, this beast covers over 700 km and throws in 17 mountain passes, including crazy climbs like Col du Galibier and Col d’Izoard.
• Alpe d’Huez (France) – Famous for its 21 hairpin bends, it’s a staple in the Tour de France and a bucket-list climb for anyone into *cycling routes*. The finish at the ski village is pure drama.
• Mont Ventoux (France) – Known as the “Giant of Provence,” this one is legendary for its moon-like summit and brutal winds. It’s short—about 21 km from Bédoin—but brutally steep.
• Stelvio Pass (Italy) – With 48 switchbacks on the northern side, it’s the most photographed climb in Italy and hits 2,757 meters at the top. Stunning views, yes, but your legs will hate you.
• Pyrenees Coast-to-Coast (France/Spain) – Ride from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean over something like 800 km, stacking up classic cols like Tourmalet and Aubisque. Some folks try this in a week, others take a bit longer and enjoy the food.
• North Coast 500 (Scotland) – A loop around the Scottish Highlands, it’s roughly 500 miles (about 800 km). It’s not as mountainous as the Alps, but the winds and weather keep you on your toes.
• Pacific Coast Highway (USA) – Okay, this is less about sharp climbs and more about endless ocean views. Running 1,800 km down California’s coast, you get a different test: endurance, headwinds, and sometimes, a Hollywood sunset.

Here’s a quick look at just how demanding these rides can be:

You don’t have to cover every kilometer in one go. Plenty of riders break these up over several days (or weeks). People train a whole year for just one of these. If you ever want to meet someone who totally gets what it means to suffer in a good way, just look for someone who’s done all seven. Bragging rights? Absolutely earned.

What Sets Them Apart

So what makes these cycling routes the big seven instead of just another long ride? The answer’s in a mix of history, epic scenery, brutal climbs, and hard-earned reputation. Each one draws thousands of riders from around the world, and they’re used in the sport’s biggest events—think Tour de France and Giro d’Italia.

Here’s what gives these routes their legendary status:

• Iconic Climbs: Some of these routes have mountain passes that test even the best cyclists. Col du Tourmalet, Alpe d’Huez, and Stelvio Pass aren’t famous for nothing. Riders measure themselves against these climbs, bragging rights included.
• Their Role in Pro Cycling: These routes show up year after year in world-famous races. If a mountain or road is a regular feature in the Tour de France, you know it’s the real deal. The drama and records set here just make the route more attractive.
• Variety: From Alpine hairpins to coastal roads, you get everything: long climbs, steep drops, sweeping curves, and even harsh winds.
• Accessibility: Some routes are totally epic but still open to everyone—not just pros. You can ride them at your own pace, with a group, or as part of a big cycling event.
• Culture: Each region brings its own vibe—French mountain towns, Swiss chalets, Italian coffee at the summit. It’s more than just the ride—food, scenery, and local support make it a full experience.

The numbers help show why these routes are special. Here’s a look at just a few stats from the most popular of the seven:

When you stack these against your local rides, you quickly see how much history, altitude, and challenge get packed into these majors. It’s not just about bragging rights. You’ll push your limits and get some of the best views, snacks, and stories along the way.

How to Prepare for a Major Route

Tackling one of the seven major cycling routes takes real planning, not just bravado. These rides will chew you up if you’re not ready—think hours in the saddle, big climbs, and unpredictable weather. Whether you’re eyeing the Stelvio Pass or a chunk of the Pyrenees, you’ll need more than just strong legs to make it through.

The first step is fitness, and not the weekend-warrior kind. Riders who handle these routes usually train for months. You want to get comfortable with back-to-back days in the saddle, plus some long climbs. If you can find local hills or indoor training apps with virtual climbs, use them. According to a 2022 analysis by Strava, cyclists who regularly practice 2,000+ meters of elevation per week are twice as likely to finish routes like the Route des Grandes Alpes without bonking.

Gear makes or breaks your trip. Don’t cheap out on your bike fit—a properly dialed-in ride prevents saddle sores and knee pain when you’re ten hours in. Tubeless tires and plenty of spares can save the day on rough descents. Pack lightweight rain gear no matter the season; weather in the mountains can flip in minutes. Legendary Tour de France winner Geraint Thomas once said:

“Nothing ruins a big ride faster than the wrong kit or not enough snacks. Plan for cold, rain, hunger, and anything else that could go sideways.”

Nutrition needs to be your best friend. Eat before you feel hungry, and don’t forget to hydrate, even when it’s chilly. Most folks underestimate just how many calories these big rides burn. Here’s a quick reference for actual data from past riders:

Route research is critical. Study your chosen cycling routes for tough climbs, good places to rest, and locations for refueling. Download offline maps—cell service can disappear without warning. Local riders or community forums are goldmines for tips: ask about tricky turns, sections to avoid, and where you’ll definitely want to stop for pizza.

• Start training at least 3-4 months out—mix in long rides and hill repeats.
• Book your accommodations close to popular start points to avoid morning stress.
• Carry more snacks than you think you’ll need. You’ll thank yourself later.
• Travel light but pack for the worst weather.
• Check your bike and gear weeks before shipping out—fix problems early.

Breaking down these giant rides into sections and setting realistic daily goals keeps the ride enjoyable, not just survival mode. Preparation stacks the odds in your favor and leaves you with memories instead of misery.

Tips from Cyclists Who Have Done Them

If you’re eyeing any of the major cycling routes, real advice from riders who’ve been there makes all the difference. No marketing fluff—just the tweaks, lessons, and routines that work on these epic rides.

"Don't underestimate the weather. I climbed Col du Galibier in July and went from sun to snow in less than an hour—pack gear for anything." – Geraint Thomas, Tour de France champion, in an interview with Cycling Weekly.

Let’s get straight to what riders wish they knew before tackling the big seven:

• Pace yourself: Most cyclists hit the wall by trying to match someone else’s pace. Stick to your own rhythm, especially on the climbs. The biggest mistake is blowing up before you’re halfway in.
• Nutrition counts. Riders recommend eating a little bit every 45 minutes. Waiting until you’re starving? Too late. A mix of carbs and salty snacks works best—don’t just rely on sugary gels.
• Hydration is sneaky. In the Alps and Pyrenees, grabbing bottles at every village fountain is a game-changer because shops aren’t always open, especially on Sundays.
• Gearing matters. Antoine from Paris says, “Bring a compact crank if you’re doing the Stelvio. It’s a lifesaver. Unless you’re pro-level, don’t show up with racing gears.”
• Equipment check: Double-check your brakes on long descents like Alpe d’Huez or Mont Ventoux—these spots have cooked more than a few calipers. Carbon rims overheat fast, so some switch to alloy for the big days.
• Rest and recovery: Most who ride multiple days stress sleeping well and stretching. Even pros swear by a foam roller at the end of the day.

Real data paints the picture. Here’s what experienced riders report for three of the most famous routes:

And one last gem: track your rides with GPS, and don’t be afraid to bail if things go south. Almost everyone has turned around at least once on these mountains. There’s no shame in living to ride another day, so know your limits and enjoy the ride for what it is—a huge achievement, whatever your time or distance.