The magical Tour du Mont-Blanc by bike

Three days, three countries, more than 320 km (200 mi) and more than 9,000 metres (30,000 ft) of elevation gain: discover the legend of the Tour du Mont Blanc by bike. Climb several of the Tour de France's legendary passes and follow in the footsteps of iconic riders through impressive descents in the French, Swiss and Italian Alps.

This road bike adventure is, in my opinion, one of the most beautiful in the Alps. It is a must for cycling enthusiasts who want to go even further into France, Switzerland and Italy. The route follows historic roads, wild landscapes and legendary high passes. You'll be riding on the same roads as your cycling heroes and thousands of travellers over the centuries.

The Tour du Mont Blanc is a magnificent loop. I have chosen to start from Chamonix in France and ride clockwise, always under the watchful eye of the Mont Blanc massif. This three-stage Collection allows you to enjoy the adventure and have a great time. Bike lovers rejoice!

Note that not all stages are equal. You will certainly want to discover towns such as Aosta in Italy and Bourg-Saint-Maurice in France. You will ride 124 km (77 mi) on the first day, 77 km (49 mi) on the second day and 120 km (75 mi) on the last day.

You start in Chamonix. A historic mountain town, Chamonix boasts the highest peak in Western Europe, Mont Blanc, at over 4,800 metres (15,750 ft). Its white cap is almost always visible from your bike during the three days. For centuries, mountaineers, climbers, skiers and extreme athletes have flocked to this legendary city to try their luck: to reach the extraordinary, even legendary, summit. A childhood dream for many. Plan to spend at least half a day discovering and enjoying these wide open spaces, between snowy peaks and bucolic landscapes.

Easily accessible by plane, road or train and with many accommodation options, Chamonix is only an hour's drive from Geneva International Airport (Switzerland). There are several transfer services or a regular bus service from the airport to the town centre. For those arriving by road or train, there is plenty of long-term parking and the train station is right in the centre of town. For buses and trains, don't forget to book your bike seat in advance.

Highlights include the Great St Bernard Pass, with its 32 km (20 mi) climb to 2,469 metres (8,100 ft), which crosses the border between Switzerland and Italy. The Petit-Saint-Bernard Pass is an ancient road that has linked Lyon in France, and Rome in Italy, for at least 1,000 years. Finally, the Col des Saisies has often been included in the stages of the Tour de France; imagine yourself in the middle of a peloton of professional cyclists climbing and descending this magnificent route!