Schedule

From
To
Category
Airport
Price
Availability
From 14th June 2025
To22nd June 2025
Category Guided Tour
Location Lyon, France
Price€ 3250
3 available

Our adventure motorcycle tour through the Grand Alps offers an exhilarating blend of breathtaking landscapes, challenging routes, and vibrant cultures. Riders can navigate winding mountain roads, experience stunning alpine vistas, and explore charming villages steeped in history. The diverse terrain, from lush valleys to rugged peaks, provides endless opportunities for exploration and adventure. Whether cruising alongside sparkling lakes or tackling steep passes, these tours promise an unforgettable journey through one of Europe’s most iconic mountain ranges, catering to both seasoned riders and those looking to embrace the thrill of the open road.

 

“Riding in the shadows of dramatic glaciers and snow-capped peaks, strolling in the picture perfect old towns and villages, tasting the delicious mountain cheese while relaxing on the shores of alpine lakes, the French Alps have much to offer to its visitors”. ..

“Countless mountain passes amongst jaw dropping scenery and quaint villages nestled high in the mountains”

“Extending from Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean Sea in Nice, the French Alps show a diversity of landscapes, traditions and gastronomy, as well as a great variety of cultural and sport activities”…

“The great mountain passes in the French Alps played a great part in the mountain range’s history, from the Roman era to the Middle-Ages and from the Napoleonic Wars to the heroic Resistance during World War 2″…

High up in the French Alps, it’s enthralling to imagine the forces that shaped these colossal peaks. The African and Eurasian tectonic plates collided some 35 million years ago, forcing the land skyward into a 1000km chain of saw-edged mountains – perfect motorcycling territory “.. .

Key Information

Start / Finish Location
Lyon, France
Countries Visited
France, Italy & Switzerland
Duaration
9 days & 10 nights
Distance
Variable (circa 1300 –2000km)
Riding Difficulty
Moderate
Culture Shock
Low
Pillion Supplemnt
€1250
Single Room Suppment
€500

Introduction:

The Alps offer an incredible experience, drawing motorcyclists back year after year for some of the finest riding and scenery in Europe. Central Europe remains one of our top destinations, and for this tour, we’re focusing on the breathtaking French Alps that border Italy and Switzerland. While many are familiar with iconic mountain passes like Col del’Iseran, Col d’Izoard, and Col de la Bonette, there’s so much more to discover, including hidden passes, beautiful lakes, and stunning glaciers.

Embracing the philosophy of “less is more,” this tour highlights the best of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes and Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur regions in terms of motorcycling, scenery, cuisine, and local hospitality. With two multi-night stays in strategic locations, participants enjoy great flexibility for optional ride-outs on rest days, along with opportunities for off-the-bike activities like gentle river rafting. Starting and ending in Lyon—France’s gateway to exceptional motorcycling—this tour is a must for all motorcycle enthusiasts.

More Information

Suggested flights 2025

  • Arrives Lyon, France Friday 13th June
    • Aer Lingus depart Dublin 07:15 and 12:55 – either flight is suitable.
  • Depart Lyon, France Monday 23rd June
    • Aer Lingus departs Lyon 11:10
    • Ryanair don’t fly to Lyon direct from Ireland. 

Itinerary *Subject to change 

13-Jun Dublin Lyon
14-Jun Lyon Villard de Lans
15-Jun Villard de Lans Forcalquier
16-Jun Forcalquier Vence
17-Jun Vence Barcelonnette
18-Jun Barcelonnette Barcelonnette
19-Jun Barcelonnette Briançon
20-Jun Briançon Briançon
21-Jun Briançon Val d’Isere
22-Jun Val d’Isere Lyon
23-Jun Lyon Dublin

 

Tour Summary:

This tour begins and ends in Lyon, the capital of France’s Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region , located at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers. The city boasts 2,000 years of history, from the Roman Amphithéâtre des Trois Gaules to the medieval and Renaissance architecture in Vieux Lyon, and the modern Confluence district on the Presqu’île peninsula.

As we depart Lyon, we head southeast into the breathtaking Vercors Regional Nature Park , a 206,208-hectare expansion known for its diverse landscapes. The park features towering limestone cliffs, deep gorges, and high plateaus, all contributing to its exceptional natural heritage.

Home to France’s largest nature reserve, the Vercors boasts dramatic rock formations and a rich variety of flora and fauna. Adventurous roads like Les Grands Goulets and Les Gorges de la Bourne offer stunning views as we explore this remarkable region.

The D76 Combe Laval road adds excitement to our journey, including a thrilling 4-kilometer stretch that hangs over a 600-meter cliff face above the Cholet river . As we ascend, we pass through woodlands and come across an orientation panel highlighting the area’s historical timber industry.

At around 1,000 meters, we encounter the first of several rock arches marking the Combe Laval. The Col de la Machine (1,015 meters) follows, offering more breathtaking viewpoints as we descend into the picturesque Forêt de Lente . We’ll stop at the small ski resort of Font d’Urle for lunch, with its charming café/bar terrace.

Refreshed, we’ll visit the Site National de la Résistance at Col de la Chau , which commemorates the region’s WWII history. As we continue south, we cross the Valensole Plateau, where centuries of agriculture have shaped the landscape, producing lavender and durum wheat.

Soon, we arrive at the Verdon Natural Park , where Alpine and Mediterranean influences create a unique ecosystem. This area is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including rare species like the griffon vulture and ocellated lizard. The Verdon river has carved out a stunning valley, and its waters support diverse freshwater fish populations.

In Barcelonnette , we have the option to embark on additional ride-outs to explore more spectacular mountain passes, including a potential visit to Italy via the Route des Grandes Alpes . This remarkable journey spans the French Alps from Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean, featuring breathtaking landscapes and local culinary delights.

Heading north, we seek out some of the most famous mountain passes, including the Col de l’Iseran at 2,770 meters—the highest paved road in Europe, renowned for its epic climbs in the Tour de France. The Col d’Izoard , another legendary pass at 2,360 meters, is celebrated for its role in cycling history, having hosted numerous Tour de France and Giro d’Italia ascents.

Please note this is an outline route and may be subject to change. We will be providing a detailed pre-departure itinerary.

Included:

  • Return transport of your motorcycle from our base in Gorey, Co. Wexford to Lyon, France
  • B&B accommodation in quality 3-4 star hotels.
  • 3 evening meals 
  • Tour guide(s)
  • Detailed route maps / itinerary etc. allowing some self-guiding if preferred.

Not Included

  • Any travel costs to get to the start and from the finish point for the tour.
  • Personal travel, accident and medical insurance (covering matters such as medical expenses, repatriation, cancellation, curtailment, loss or damage to property)
  • Motorcycle insurance cover, motorcycle breakdown cover or recovery costs
  • Entrance fees to sights and parks, optional local excursions or local activities, (except where stated)
  • Lunches or snacks (except where stated). Any meals whilst on board ferries. Evening meals on rest/optional ride out days.
  • Personal spending money, tips, souvenirs or other extras.
  • Personal documentation (eg visas, passport), vaccinations, personal taxes, border crossing fees, motorcycle documentation
  • Costs of motorcycle repair (parts, labor or other related costs), tyres
  • Fuel, oil & other motorcycle consumables
  • Toll road fees, traffic fines or other charges relating to breach of the law
  • Any other item not specifically included in the price.

Hotels

We are pleased to offer a carefully selected range of 3 to 4 star hotels for our tour customers. Over the years, we have built a diverse portfolio of trusted accommodations worldwide, focusing on places with character and exceptional service. Hotel standards can vary significantly by region—for example, a 4-star hotel in Africa or South America may differ from those in Europe. In more remote areas, we may choose top-rated 3-star hotels or the best available alternatives, often including charming family-run properties that provide a warm, authentic experience. Above all, comfort and satisfaction are our priorities, and we aim to provide distinctive, memorable lodging on every journey.

 

Pre trip we provide you with Tour Specific Information that gives you detailed information about how to prepare and plan your tour, and what to expect when on tour. These are a few FAQs that many people have. If you have any further queries or concerns please do not hesitate to contact us.

What bike is suitable to bring?
Generally speaking we recommend adventure or touring style motorcycles as the most suitable. However, sports, sport-touring and cruiser motorcycles may also be suitable subject to you being comfortable riding it for the distance and duration of the tour and that it has been properly prepared and adequately serviced with good tyres.

What riding experience do I need?
Generally speaking we recommend all participants to be experienced tourers in Europe and/or beyond. Obviously, some destinations are easier than others, as classified by our difficulty ratings, and should you have concerns please do not hesitate to contact us. It is your responsibility to ensure your motorcycling skills are up to the requirements for this tour. Obviously advanced riding skills increase enjoyment factor and reduce risk.

Do I have to ride in a group?
No! We do not make you ride in convoy and we offer you the freedom to decide how you would like to ride. However, we find most people prefer to ride with the group without the need to navigate. We use either the ‘drop off’ or ‘buddy’ systems when group riding (depending on country and complexity of navigation); these are tried and tested systems of group riding and allow riders to ride at their own pace. Full details are provided at pre-trip briefings. Daily departure times are set every evening for the following morning depending on the days route and points of interest. If you prefer to ride on your own, we provide you with a map and route cards with recommendations for lunch or coffee stops and hotel information. We offer a very flexible approach with an emphasis on maximum enjoyment.

Is this ride suitable for a passenger?
Yes. Pillion passengers should be experienced tourers / travellers. 

What is the average group size?
Our groups are normally between 8 – 14 riders (some riders will have passengers). Most riders are from the Ireland, but we do also have overseas riders who may take part.

What documents do I need?
You will need your original documents as follows: 

  • Passport and Driving Licence.  Passengers only need their passport.  As a general rule, passports should be valid for at least 6 months after the end of the tour; however, this may be shorter in some European countries. 
  • If you are bringing your own motorcycle, you will also need your motorcycle registration document (RF101 / log book) and your motorcycle insurance.
  • In addition, you must have valid travel/medical insurance.
  • Visas as required Please ensure that you are fully aware of all passport and visa requirements and that you allow adequate time to obtain them.

What will the weather be like?

Depending on season / time of year we will advise expected weather conditions in the pre-trip information and also suggest the most suitable gear based on our experience. It is imperative that tour participants have suitably adequate gear. Please note our tour calendar is carefully planned taking into account the most suitable seasons / local weather for the destination. However, as much as we would like, we cannot always guarantee the best weather. Particularly considering the un-predictable climates the world has been experiencing.

What about my health when I am abroad?
You need to be physically fit and healthy and also take the necessary health precautions.  It is essential for you to consult your doctor or travel clinic for up-to-date medical travel information prior of travel, particularly if you have a pre-existing medical condition. Please ensure that you are fully aware of all official travel advice, local customs, current affairs, travel requirements and medical/travel advice. Please check with your GP regarding recommended inoculations. 

Do I need Travel / Medical Insurance?
It is a condition of you travelling with us that you are adequately insured.  Your insurance policy must cover you for the costs of any medical expenses, medical treatment or repatriation needed, due to injury or illness on this trip, including those that occur whilst motorcycle touring, either as the rider or a passenger.  It is important that your insurance company understands that the main purpose of your trip is motorcycle touring, using your own large capacity cc motorcycle or a rental motorcycle.  Your insurance must cover you for the full duration of the trip and for all countries we travel through.

In addition, we strongly recommend that your insurance policy has cover for loss or damage to your personal belongings, delay at your outward or homeward point of departure, personal liability, overseas legal expenses and cancellation and curtailment. We do not refund your deposit simply because you failed to take out insurance in sufficient time. Some travel insurance policies do not cover motorcycle travel over a certain cc or for a prolonged duration.

Minimum Numbers
We require a minimum number of 8 riders on this tour. If we do not have this number of bookings, then we reserve the right to cancel the tour.

Preparation for Shipping (if applicable)

  • All rider/pillion gear including boots and helmets should be packed into a kit/sports bag and labeled with the owners name, bike make/model and registration. One kit bag permitted per person.
    • Please note loose items or items tied onto the motorcycle will not be transported.
    • Bin liners, rubbish bags, cardboard / plastic boxes etc are not acceptable.
  • Motorcycles should be in a clean and presentable condition both for outbound and return shipments. If your motorcycle is considerably dirty post trip please wash it before returning it.
  • All Luggage (hard and soft panniers) should be left unlocked and removable from the motorcycle if necessary for transport purposes.
  • Alarms should be switched off or in “Ferry” mode for transport purposes.
  • Fuel level should be kept relatively low. All our depots are within a few km of fuel stations.
  • Keys for both the motorcycle and luggage should be left with the motorcycle.
  • At handover we will require a signed customs declaration form and a photocopy of the registration document / log book stapled together. Customs declaration from will be emailed pre-shipment. These should only be handed over in hard copy at time of delivery.
    • Do not email copies in advance.
    • We will not accept original copies of registration documents/log books.

Overlanders accepts to make arrangements so that travel services, such as transportation and accommodation facilities and other services, will be provided to the customer in accordance with the travel schedule(s) predetermined by Overlanders.

Booking:
• Overlanders may accept a booking online, via telephone or email. To confirm a booking a deposit is required – once the deposit is received the booking is confirmed. Spaces will not be reserved without deposits.
• Overlanders reserve the right to cancel an online booking or refuse a booking at any time.

Payments & Fees:
• All payments must be made in full at least 60 days prior to the shipment date. Failure to pay outstanding balances prior to this date results in automatic cancellation.
• Deposits amounts are NON-REFUNDABLE or transferrable within 60 days of shipment date
• Exceptions may be made on a case per case basis considering demand / cancellation list etc.
• We strongly suggest having adequate Travel Insurance in place at the time of booking.

Flights:
• It is your responsibility to confirm suitable flights / collection times. Please contact us for recommendations. Should an airline change their schedule, we will do our best to facilitate but it may not be possible considering our shipping schedule/logistics.

Costs Included in the Travel Fee:
• Transportation fees and charges for transportation facilities used are those expressly indicated in the travel schedule.
• Re: Guided Tours – please see the specific tour brochure for a list of inclusions and exclusions

Costs not included in Travel Fee:
• Any expenses other than those listed in the inclusions will not be included in the travel fee.
• Re: Guided Tours – flights, visas, and any other expenses related to getting to the starting point and from the finishing point are not included in Travel Fees (unless otherwise stated)

Passport & Visa & Travel Requirements:
• Please ensure that you are fully aware of all passport and visa requirements and that you allow adequate time to obtain them. We personally recommend that you travel with a passport that has a minimum validity of 6 months remaining at all times.
• Please ensure that you are fully aware of all official travel advice, local customs, current affairs, travel requirements and medical/travel advice. Please check with your GP regarding recommended inoculations.

Travel Insurance:
• It is imperative that adequate Travel Insurance cover (including medical repatriation) is activated at the point of confirming your booking. Some travel insurance policies do not cover motorcycle travel over a certain cc or for a prolonged duration.

Cancellation/Amendments/Refund Policy:
• Please note that all payments and deposits are non refundable nor transferrable if cancellation accrues within 60 days of the shipment / tour date (whichever comes sooner).
• Where possible we will try to accommodate any amendments you wish to make.
• In the event of curtailment no refunds shall be made.
• Refunds may be processed via the original method of payment, except for cash transactions where refunds will be provided by cheque.

Feed back / Complaints:
• Customer satisfaction is very important to us and to help us further improve our service we value any feedback both positive and negative. Please email info@overlanders.ie

Gallery