IN SEARCH
OF STELLA
The ultimate mini trail adventure in the Italian Alps
WHEN:
13th - 22nd September 2024
IN A NUTSHELL:
Catch the ferry, ride to the Alps, ride some of the high altitude dirt road mountain passes, including the home of Stella Alpina, the Col de Sommeiller. Having ridden to the Italian Alps we will make camp for three nights, giving chance to ride the tracks without luggage.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Ride the highest possible off-road track in the Alps at 3,009 metres (around 9,872 feet), an event taking place since 1966. On the way there we'll ride through some of the iconic ski resorts of Val-d'Isère and Courmayeur.
WHO IS IT FOR:
This trip is for people with some trail riding experience on a suitable bike that is capable of getting them down to the Alps and riding the tracks as well. The tracks will be ridden with the luggage off. Riders must be confident of their ability as some of the terrain can be challenging and the areas we will be riding in are off the beaten track. Please watch the video further down to assess the type of lanes we'll be riding.
ACCOMMODATION:
Camping, and one night hotel on the way down. There will be options to upgrade to hotel accommodation in due course. The price given is currently for camping.
WHAT DOES IT INCLUDE?
Price includes ferry crossings, camping and guiding. A support van will ensure all get back safely.
WHAT DOES IT NOT INCLUDE?
The cost does not include fuel, food, breakdown insurance and other associated costs with travel.
THE ROUTE
The route down there will be fairly direct, through rural France but definitely avoiding the motorway. We'll give two days of around 260 miles per day, which is a manageable distance for a 'transit' day.
Once down in the Alps we'll enjoy 4 days of riding the Stella Alpina as well as some other mountain trails in the area. After that we'll begin to make our way back to the port.
For illustration purposes only
RIDING REQUIREMENTS:
Riders must be able to confidently and safely negotiate gravel track mountain roads. Whilst there is no pressure or compulsion to go further than you feel comfortable, riders should accept that gravel track riding is part of this tour.
For an indication of some of the riding conditions on the mountain, please see watch this video review of the Voge 300 Rally from the 2023 trip, which will give you an indication of the nature trails. Riders need to be comfortable on this type of trail. This is not a tour for someone has limited experience.
(2181) Voge 300 Rally - 2000 mile test - ride to the Alps - YouTube
BIKE CHOICE:
A smaller capacity adventure machine is recommended. Most riders on the 2023 run were on Royal Enfield Himalayans, Honda CRF300s, KTM 390 Adventures, Suzuki DRZ400s etc. The route down to the Alps is non motorway, so a large capacity machine isn't needed and you need to be able to pick up your own bike on the trails. Larger bikes aren't outlawed on this trip, but it is only suitable for capable riders of those machines.
HOW LONG ARE THE DAYS?
The transit days to and from the ferry port will be approximately 240 miles in length. This should be manageable for all machines capable of travelling at road legal speeds. The days once in the Alps will be of shorter duration and distance.
WHAT WILL I NEED TO BRING?
You'll need a well serviced and reliable machine, capable of travelling at at least 60mph. You will need a tent, sleeping bag, roll mat, and cooking equipment would be advisable. You will need breakdown insurance and suitable holiday insurance, providing proof of the latter prior to departure.
WHAT BIKE?
An adventure bike capable of holding 60mph would be the ideal, from a 250cc and upwards. A trail tyre should be fitted and bikes suitably prepped for dirt road adventures.
HOW MUCH IS IT?
£845
TO BOOK ON:
To book a space on the tour please register below and confirm your place with a £75 deposit
