Historic wine cellar in cycling's cathedral

How to Complete

4 steps curated by Wine Memories

1. ⛰️ 1

   Hunt the 21 Hairpins Where Cycling Legends Suffered

   adventure Free

   Since Fausto Coppi won here in 1952, every Tour de France legend has suffered up these 13.8km at an 8% average gradient. Each of the 21 hairpin bends is numbered and named after a Tour de France stage winner: Bend 7 is 'Virage Lance Armstrong' (controversial), Bend 21 is 'Virage Fausto Coppi' at the summit. The 'Dutch Corner' (Bend 7) is where thousands of Dutch fans camp during the Tour, painting the road orange. Walk or drive slowly up the D211 road from Bourg-d'Oisans, stopping at each numbered bend. At Bend 21 (summit), look BACK DOWN at the switchbacks snaking below—this is what cyclists see when they finally finish. The vertical gain is 1,071m.

   🔄 BACKUP: If you're not walking the full climb, drive to Bend 7 (Dutch Corner) and Bend 21 (Coppi) for photos. The contrast of summer suffering + winter celebration is the soul of Alpe d'Huez.

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2. 📜 2

   Dine Where Coppi Slept After His 1952 Victory

   history $$$

   Enter Au Chamois d'Or and ask to see the historic photos in the wine cellar. This hotel has hosted Tour de France legends since Fausto Coppi first won here in 1952. The photos show Coppi, Hinault, Pantani - they all slept in these rooms after suffering up the 21 hairpins. The wine cellar was built to celebrate their victories. Ask which room Pantani stayed in (if they'll tell you). Budget €50-100 for dinner with wine pairings.

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3. 🍷 3

   Taste Isère Wines That Never Leave the Region

   wine $$

   Ask the sommelier specifically for wines from Isère producers - true local rarities that never leave the region. Isère is a tiny wine appellation that most French people have never heard of. The wines here are grown in the shadow of Alpe d'Huez. Ask which vineyard is closest to the mountain. The sommelier will appreciate the question - few tourists know Isère wines exist. Budget €15-25 for a tasting flight.

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4. ⛰️ 4

   Order the Winter Truffle Menu

   Optional

   adventure $$$$

   If you're visiting in winter (December-February), ask about the truffle menu. Black Périgord truffles paired with aged Mondeuse from local producers is the signature experience. The earthiness of truffle with the peppery depth of mountain red is a canonical Alpine pairing. Budget €80-120 for the truffle tasting menu with wine. Book at least 1 week ahead in peak season.

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