The Haute Route Dolomites Swiss Alps starts on 16 August in Venice and ends on 22 August in Geneva. The route takes the 500 riders from the Adriatic coast to the shores of Lake Geneva. They have to cover 880 kilometres and 19,000 metres in altitude in seven timed stages.
17 mountain climbs are on the programme, including the Stelvio Pass, the Gavia Pass, the Pordoi Pass, the Giau Pass and the Furka Pass. Almost half of the passes are higher than 2,000 metres. The almost 900-kilometre course includes two marathon stages, an individual time trial and two mountain finishes on the Stelvio Pass and in Crans Montana.
"This is likely to be one of the toughest Haute Route courses to date," said Race Director Laurent Bezault, "there is no warm-up phase, the riders will be on a very demanding route from the start. But the route is very balanced and it will be an unforgettable journey for all participants."
One of the highlights of the Haute Route is the individual time trial - for many amateurs it is likely to be the first race of its kind. The time trial takes place on day four and leads from Bormio over 21 kilometres up to the infamous Stelvio Pass at 2,758 metres - the highest point of the entire route of the Haute Route Dolomites Swiss Alps.
On their journey, the riders will spend the night in Venice, Cortina d'Ampezzo, Merano, Bormio, St. Moritz, Andermatt, Crans-Montana and Geneva.
The final registration phase for the three Haute Route 2014 events is still ongoing. According to the organisers, more than 1,000 riders from 38 countries have registered to date. The entry fee is 1,500 euros.
