The Alps are a place of legend for cyclists, road-racers and enthusiasts alike. Home to one of the most challenging sections of the Tour de France, the mountains offer some of Europe?s most gruelling yet glorious cycling climbs through Geneva, Chamonix, Annecy, Chambry, Grenoble, Le Bourg-d?Oisans and Barcelonnette.

In this comprehensive guide, teacher, passionate cycling enthusiast and author of one of the most renowned books on the Tour de France and L?Alpe d?Huez, Graeme Fife presents the greatest mountain routes of the Alps. Fife?s lively writing style, full of anecdotes and humorous asides, captures the beauty and intrigue of the mountains, as well as key moments in cycle-racing history. A selection of photography of the routes and stunning scenery follows each chapter and hand-drawn maps document some of the most famous ? and most challenging ? climbs, both well- and lesser-known, including Chablais Massif, Grand Saint-Bernard, Col de la Colombire, Mont du Chat and Col du Mont Noir.

Whether planning a weekend micro-adventure or an epic cycling escape, this beautifully illustrated guide is essential reading for cyclists of all stripes.