France loves and lives for cycling: across the country, there are hundreds of events, large and small, for amateur cyclists. The cyclosportives, gran fondos and randos take riders up legendary Tour de France climbs such as Alpe d’Huez, Col du Galibier, Mont Ventoux and the Ballon d’Alsace. Racing along routes steeped in cycling history – a must for all Tour fans. This time: La Madelaine.
La Madelaine, 26 July
La Madelaine is a smaller event featuring four different routes. The Le Sapey race covers 125 kilometres and involves tackling a staggering 4,000 metres of climbing; the La Madelaine route covers 80 kilometres and 2,800 metres of climbing; and the third race, La Montvernier, offers 2,400 metres of climbing spread over 60 kilometres. Those without a medical certificate can also ride the shortest route as a Cyclorando without timing. The finish line for all variants is at the summit of the Col de la Madelaine at 1,993 m. Entry is currently available from €60, including the cycling jersey, which must be worn during the event.
Info: www.cyclomadeleine.com
That’s why the Tour de France is such a cult event:
The Col de la Madelaine is a regular feature on the Tour route. It is considered one of the toughest climbs in the Tour de France and has often played a decisive role in the battle for the Yellow Jersey. In 1975, Eddy Merckx lost his Yellow Jersey on the Madelaine. In the 2025 Tour de France Femmes, it was even the finish line: Pauline Ferrand-Prévot won the stage and laid the foundations for her Tour victory.
Road cycling events in France
The names of events can be confusing. The international term ‘Gran Fondo’ is increasingly being used for timed events. Traditionally, a distinction is made between competitive races – known as ‘Cyclosportives’ (Cyclo) – which are timed, and ‘Randonnées’ (Rando) or ‘Cyclotourisme’, which are not timed. For races with a ranking list, a racing licence or a current medical certificate confirming fitness to participate in sport must be presented in France. Anyone wishing to take part in the La Madelaine races must bear this in mind!
Kristian Bauer
Editor
