The Thames Hospice Big Mountain Challenge is back 18-22 September 2026 in Provence!

 

We are calling all avid road cyclists to saddle up and book a place on a thrilling 3.5 day road cycle challenge in Provence France, including the legendary Tour De France Icon Mt Ventoux all for a great cause! Sign up today and join other passionate cyclists to experience the stunning Provencale villages, scenery, mountains, food and culture from your bike.

Three routes are offered to suit a wide variety of cycling abilities and speeds in some of the most iconic and scenic rides in Europe, many of which feature in the Tour de France.

The event is run with vehicle & mechanical support, pro riders and coaching to accompany participants during the event. Every detail has been thought of to guarantee the highest standards at excellent value.

£895 (plus sponsorship to raise money for Thames Hospice), includes half board accommodation with generous hot breakfasts and dinners, airport transfers and all guided & supported cycling. You can bring your own bike we can supply a good standard road bike on arrival at competitive rates.

Choose one of our cycle routes that’s right for you, from those newer to road cycling in the mountains on the Matterhorn route, to intermediate riders with Kilimanjaro and our Everest route for riders wanting a bigger challenge.

With either option, you’ll be riding Tour de France routes, on, smooth Alpine roads, with stunning views in every direction; all supported by our friendly team on the ground. Big Mountain Challenge is known for it’s friendly spirit with riders enjoying the social elements of the rides and encouraging each other up the climbs. None of our rides are timed. The emphasis is on enjoying the fabulous routes on road bikes and the mutal sense of achievement; all in safety.

Each day, we’ll head out on the scheduled ride after breakfast at your hotel. All rides start and finish from the event hotel.

See accommodation details

Lunch (not included in the package) is taken at cafés / restaurants along the ride route and is always rewarding after an exhilarating climb.

After each ride, there’ll be time to relax back at the hotel, swap stories over a drink, before sitting down for supper together.

 

BMC Event Itinerary

 

Friday 18 Sept – Arrival:  All riders arrange their own flights to Marselles, which is well served with flights from around the UK and a wider range of direct flights from major international cities.

To Benefit from our inclusive airport transfer to the event hotels you will need to be on a flight arriving into Marseilles airport no later than 11:00am local time  – transfer to your base for the weekend is by coach and typically takes 1.5-2 hours.

There will be time to check in and familiarise yourself with your rental bike/assemble your own bike (help is available) before bikes are checked and we head off for the first of your rides in the beautiful Provencale countryside.

Saturday 19 Sept - Monday 21 Sept : we head out on your designated rides, accompanied by a support/mechanical vehicle, a number of experienced road captains and pro riders will help you get the most out of your riding experience. Ride durations are between 5-8 hours depending on the route you choose and your collective group's speed. 

Each evening, there will be time to chill out before eating together at the hotel.

Following your last ride on Monday, there will be plenty of time to pack up bikes, etc ahead of a departure from the hotel on Tuesday 22 Sept morning at 0830 getting you to Marseilles  airport in plenty of time for flights departing after 1200 noon.

Interested in joining us to support the great work of Thames Hospice for our weekend enjoying cycling in Provence?

If you’d like to join us, complete the booking form here and we’ll be in touch by email shortly to confirm your reservation.

Sign up here