Le Grand 8 Alpes begins and ends in Serre Chevalier, located in France’s Hautes-Alpes region. This event challenges road cyclists with a 153 km route through the mountains. It's a cyclosportive event that includes an ultra-endurance element, as participants are not confined to a set course. Instead, the format allows them to determine the amount of climbing they wish to undertake. The event is scheduled for early February, offering a distinct atmosphere in the Alpine setting compared to a summer sportive.
The core concept is straightforward yet demanding: ascend between one and eight mountain passes. Participants select the number of cols, the sequence in which they will be climbed, and the specific paths to each summit. This allows the day to be structured as a demanding mountain excursion or a more extensive trial of strategy, endurance, and physical capability. The base in Serre Chevalier positions the event near Briançon, the Écrins National Park, Monêtier-les-Bains, and historical local forts. However, the central aspect of the event remains the rider's self-determined route across the Alpine ascents.