“Alpine passes, canyons, and balcony roads”
13 Day Grand Tour French Alps - Guided Motorcycle Tour in Switzerland and France
Hagedorn Hotel Alarun, Weihenstephaner Str. 2, 85716 Unterschleißheim, Munich, Germany; Gotthard - Goms, Switzerland; Megeve - Briançon - Valberg - Castellane - Pra-Loup - La Rosière, France
Guided Motorcycle Tour Switzerland and France
Explore Legendary Passes and Secret Roads of the French Alps. This 13-day guided motorcycle tour is your chance to experience the French Alps like never before. Covering all the major Alpine passes and venturing through some of Europe’s most breathtaking canyons, this tour is packed with exhilarating rides and awe-inspiring views. From iconic routes like the legendary Col du Galibier and Col de la Bonette to the hidden balcony roads carved into the mountainsides, we’ll take you to places few riders ever reach.
Key information
- Terrain: 100% paved roads
- Bike: Personal or rental bike (premium adventure models from BMW and KTM through a partner: BMW R 1300 GS, KTM 1290 Super Adventure S)
- Mileage: 4,200 kilometers (2,610 miles)
- Daily rides: 250-380 km (155-236 miles)/day
- Riding gear: Klim Gore-Tex riding gear, helmet, and boots (available for rent)
- Meals: Breakfast every morning
Meet the instructors
Oliver
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Highlights
- Starts and ends in Munich, Germany (near Airport)
- Carefully curated tours for everyday
- Tour guide for the entire tour (English/German speaking)
- Major Swiss Alps Passes
- Route des Grandes Alps – all major alpine passes in France
- Canyo like Gorge du Verdon, Gorge de l’Ardèche
- Hidden Balcony Roads like the Combe de Laval
- 12 nights accommodation
Skill level
- Intermediate
13 days with instruction in English
The organizer also speaks: German
Group size: Maximum of 8 participants
Accommodation
You will stay in carefully selected 3- and 4-star hotels, each chosen for its unique charm, location, or historical significance.
The first night is in Munich, Germany
Switzerland:
- Night 2: Gotthard
- Night 12: Goms
France:
- Night 3: Megève
- Night 4: Briançon
- Night 5: Valberg
- Night 6: Barcelonnette
- Night 7: Barcelonnette (rest day)
- Night 8: Sault
- Night 9: Sault (circular route)
- Night 10: Grenoble
- Night 11: Rosier
Program
With carefully curated routes and expertly guided support, this tour is crafted to deliver the ultimate French & Swiss Alps experience, blending challenging rides, jaw-dropping scenery, and unforgettable memories on Europe’s most scenic roads.
Tour profile
This 13-day tour through France is designed for riders who want to experience the full range of France’s stunning landscapes, from the high peaks of the Alps to the hidden canyons and winding balcony roads. With daily rides averaging 4-5 hours net riding time in the mounains, the tour combines iconic Alpine passes, scenic canyon routes, and charming countryside roads, offering a mix of both thrilling and relaxed riding experiences. This journey is ideal for intermediate riders who enjoy varied terrain, including hairpin turns, sweeping vistas, and narrow mountain roads. The pace allows time to soak in each region’s unique culture, with scenic stops for photo opportunities, local dining, and exploring historic landmarks. With carefully planned routes that showcase the best of France, this tour promises an unforgettable ride through some of Europe’s most beautiful and diverse landscapes.
Group riding
One of the most rewarding aspects of this tour is the shared experience of riding with like-minded enthusiasts. There’s something special about exploring the open road together, conquering mountain passes side by side, and sharing the day’s highlights over dinner each evening.
Many riders find that the friendships formed on tours like these last well beyond the final day, creating a sense of camaraderie that adds a whole new dimension to the journey.
Riding in a group does require a bit of give and take, as everyone’s safety and enjoyment depend on mutual respect and a spirit of cooperation. By embracing the group dynamic, you’ll not only enhance your own experience, but also contribute to an unforgettable adventure for everyone involved.
Bike rental
For those coming from further away or who simply want to experience the Alps on a top-notch bike, MotoVibes Travel offers rental options on premium adventure models from BMW and KTM.
You will also receive GPX data for each route to enhance your riding experience. MotoVibes Travel will be capturing parts of the journey on social media, sharing highlights on Instagram and in YouTube videos, so you will have memorable snapshots to look back on.
Skill level: Intermediate
This tour requires at least an intermediate skill level. Riders should be comfortable navigating winding roads, handling hairpin turns, and passing traffic on mountain passes.
While riders with varying experience are welcome, participants should have some familiarity with challenging terrain to fully enjoy the journey. One of the highlights of this tour is the chance to improve your riding skills, no matter your current level.
MotoVibes Travel will be there to offer tips and guidance along the way, helping you build confidence and refine your technique as you tackle some of this trip's most thrilling roads. For more advanced riders, many sections of the tour will allow you to take on the road at your own pace, so you can push your limits.
The group structure ensures that everyone rides at their comfort pace, making this tour a rewarding experience for all skill levels.
- Can ride for three to four hours
- Average riding experience
- Little assistance required
- Comfortable with extreme curves and leans
- Average experience with unsurfaced roads
- Steep ascents and descents
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Munich, Germany
Settle into beautiful Munich and prepare for the adventure ahead! In the evening, meet your fellow riders, pick up your rental bike, and join us for a welcome dinner. It’s a relaxed start where you can get to know the group and get excited for the days ahead.
Day 2 (475 km/295 miles): Munich to Gotthard
Your journey begins in earnest as you head south, crossing into the Alps and tackling your first major pass: the stunning San Bernardino. With winding roads and towering peaks, today’s ride is the perfect introduction to Alpine riding, bringing us to Gotthard for a well-earned rest.
Day 3 (260 km/162 miles): Gotthard to Megève
Today, you take on the iconic Tremola Road and the famous Furka Pass, one of Switzerland’s most scenic routes. The cobbled hairpins of Tremola and the sweeping curves of Furka will leave you breathless as you descend into the charming Alpine town of Megève.
Day 4 (262 km/163 miles): Megève to Briançon
Prepare for a day of Alpine classics! You'll cross the legendary Col de la Madeleine and the mighty Col du Galibier, both known for their challenging roads and panoramic views. It’s a day of high-altitude thrills as you make your way to Briançon, a historic mountain town.
Day 5 (280 km/174 miles): Briançon to Valberg
From Briançon, you dive into some of the most dramatic landscapes of the French Alps. Today’s highlights include the rugged Col de l'Izoard, the picturesque Col de Vars, and the towering Col de la Bonette. You’ll also ride through the scenic Gorge du Cians, with its deep red rock walls.
Day 6 (275 km/171 miles): Valberg to Barcelonnette
Today, you’ll explore the incredible Gorge du Daluis, known as the "Grand Canyon of France" for its stunning red rock formations. After that, you ride the famous Balcony Road Clue de Barles, a narrow, cliffside route that offers breathtaking views and a touch of adventure before arriving in Barcelonnette.
Day 7 (285 km/177 miles): Rest Day in Barcelonnette
Take a break or, for those still itching to ride, enjoy an optional day trip over Col de Cayolle and another ride over Col de la Bonette. This is your chance to relax or explore more of the French Alps at your own pace.
Day 8 (265 km/165 miles): Barcelonnette to Sault
Today, you head south toward Provence, riding through the famous Verdon Canyon. Known for its dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters, Verdon is a highlight of any tour through the Alps. You’ll end the day in the picturesque town of Sault, nestled on the edge of Provence.
Day 9 (270 km/168 miles): Sault to Sault
A circular route today takes us up Mont Ventoux, the “Giant of Provence,” famous for its challenging ascent and stunning summit views. You’ll also explore the Gorges de l’Ardèche, with its winding roads and sweeping views over the rugged landscape.
Day 10 (285 km/177 miles): Sault to Grenoble
Get ready for a day of balcony roads, including the breathtaking Combe Laval, Route de Presles, and Gorges de la Bourne. These roads are etched into the cliffside, offering unparalleled views and a truly unique riding experience as you make your way to the Alpine city of Grenoble.
Day 11 (285 km/177 miles): Grenoble to Rosier
Another day packed with Alpine highlights! You’ll take on the D211A Balcony Road, cross the challenging Col du Glandon and the majestic Col de la Croix de Fer, before finally conquering the King of Alpine Passes, Col de l'Iseran. Each pass offers something different, from sweeping vistas to tight hairpins.
Day 12 (270 km/168 miles): Rosier to Goms
As you head back towards Switzerland, today’s route includes the Col du Petit-Saint Bernard and the historic Col du Grand Saint-Bernard. With picturesque towns and towering peaks, this ride is both scenic and thrilling, bringing us back to Goms for the final stretch.
Day 13 (490 km/304 miles): Goms to Munich
The grand finale! Your last day takes you across the impressive Grimsel and Susten Passes, two of Switzerland’s finest. It’s a final day of Alpine grandeur before you return to Munich for the tour’s end and a late afternoon bike drop-off. Time to say farewell—but the memories will last a lifetime.
Instructors
Oliver Schwabe
Oliver knows what it’s like to stand where you are - ready to explore. When he first started riding motorcycles, the urge to explore Europe’s most breathtaking spots came naturally. Over time, he started organizing tours for friends, documenting his journeys, and sharing them with the motorcycle community on YouTube. After riding over 200,000 kilometers across Europe’s famous landscapes and hidden gems, he is thrilled to offer a curated selection of guided tours for fellow riders, launching in 2025.
Location
Imagine weaving through narrow mountain passes, riding alongside sheer cliff faces, and marveling at the deep turquoise waters of the Verdon Canyon. You will be chasing tucked-away gems, uncovering spectacular routes that are as thrilling as they are scenic, including the famous Gorge du Daluis and the unforgettable Combe Laval Road.
Whether you’re conquering the King of Alpine Passes—Col de l’Iseran—or cruising through the enchanting Gorges de l’Ardèche, each day is an adventure in itself, designed to showcase the raw beauty and diverse landscapes of the Alps.
Food
Breakfast is included, and you will either dine at the hotel or have nearby options, giving you the chance to savor local cuisine after a day on the road.
The following meals are included:
- Breakfast
- Drinks
The following drinks are included:
- Water
- Coffee
- Tea
The following dietary requirement(s) are served and/or catered for:
- Regular (typically includes meat and fish)
If you have special dietary requirements it's a good idea to communicate it to the organiser when making a reservation
Things to do (optional)
Optional rental items are available through a partner and are payable at the end of the trip directly to the partner company. These rental items are provided by Adventure Rental in Hamburg and are subject to availability. Prices are approximate and may vary. The following rental items can be reserved after booking:
- Motorcycle rental such as the BMW R 1300 GS, KTM 1290 Super Adventure, and others, with insurance and kilometers included (2,080 to 2,245 EUR)
- Riding gear: Klim Gore-Tex gear, helmets, and boots
- Safety equipment: Electronic airbag vests
What's included
- Comprehensive tour package and GPX
- Tour guide for the entire tour (English / German-speaking)
- Carefully curated tours for every day
- 12 all overnight accommodations (comfortable middle-class hotels) in a double or single room
- Breakfast every morning
What's not included
- All services not mentioned
- Gasoline for the motorcycle
- Food in addition to included food options
- Toll for certain roads
- Motorcycle rental including insurance
- Klim Gore-Tex riding gear, helmet, and boots
- Electronic airbag vest
- Motorcycle BMW R 1300 GS (2245 EUR)
- Motorcycle KTM 1290 Super Adventure S / BMW R 1250 GS (2080 EUR)
How to get there
Recommended Airports
MUC
Munich Airport
28 km
Transfer not provided
Arrival by plane
Please book your flight to arrive at Munich Airport (MUC). The tour begins in Munich at the Hotel Alarun in Unterschleissheim. The hotel is conveniently located just a 10-minute taxi ride or a 20-minute train ride from Munich Airport.
If you plan to rent a motorcycle, please ensure that you will arrive at the hotel the afternoon before the tour starts. Motorcycles, provided by MotoVibes Travel's trusted rental partner, will be delivered directly to the hotel for your convenience.
The hotel's address is Hagedorn Hotel Alarun, Weihenstephaner Str. 2, 85716 Unterschleißheim.
Cancellation Policy
- A reservation requires a deposit of 20% of the total price.
- The deposit is non-refundable, if the booking is cancelled.
- The rest of the payment should be paid on arrival.
For this organizer you can guarantee your booking through Tripaneer.com. All major credit cards supported.
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