Details About Our Ten Day Tour:

Our twowheeltoursriders have the chance to experience 10 Fully Catered Days exploring Muscat and its surrounds and then will head out to Nizwa to participate in the three day Haute Route event

Muscat is a place like no other, riders will have the opportunity to stretch their legs on four loop rides from our beautiful hotel ~150km with ~2,000 metres of vertical gain before the race

While in Muscat and while off the bike, riders will visit many of the attractions including the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque which was opened in 2001 and can comfortably fit 20,000 people at the one time to pray. You will also visit the fish market where colour abounds from both the fish and the characters who are there to buy, filet and sell their stock. Another must visit location is the souk, the city's bazaar where you will experience silver, gold, frankincense and funnily enough myrrh.

As always, riders will be supported by a professional team including our own masseur and mechanic plus a rider on course. We will look after all your meals and provide top level accomodation during the tour.

Conditions in March will offer ideal mid to low 20°C temperatures

Details for the 2021 three day event are still to be released. Here is the information from 2020:
 

Haute Route Oman

Course details for 2020 

Total 252 KM, Total Ascent 5,765m 

Event Village :  Nizwa

Stage 1 : Nizwa - Jebel al Akhdar (84 KM, 3,000M+)
Climb : Jebel Akhdar 2,022M, Hayl Al Hadab 2,300M, Jebel Akhdar 2,022M

With the iconic Jebel Akhdar – the Green Mountain at the heart of Stage 1, this is an opportunity to take on one of the most thrilling climbs in Gran Fondo cycling. 

Technical Advice:
Gearing: 50/34 chainset | 11/32 cassette
Wheels: Alloy clinchers – low profile

Local Rider’s Top Tip:

Get into a rhythm with a high cadence and don’t use all your energy, as there are many more climbs to come!

Stage 2 : Nizwa - Nizwa (140 KM, 2,320M+)
Climb : Al Hoota 655M, Jebel Haat 2,000M, Al Hoota 655m

Stage 2 of the event will deliver one of the best cycling climbs in the Middle East. The ascent of Jebel Hatt presents riders with an undulating 23km climb to the summit, which sits at 2,000m. The awe-inspiring panoramic views of Wadi Bani Awf and Snake Canyon are set to reward every rider as they reach the turning point at the summit. 

Technical Advice: 

Your best climbing wheels are the order of the day, with the stage finishing at the summit of Jebel Haat. However, Stage 2 features the least severe gradients, so if you haven’t packed the lowest available gears, this is the day that you’ll get away with it!

Local Rider’s Top Tip: 

Al Hoota is a deceptively long climb so it’s easy to pedal too hard, too soon. Find a tempo, ensuring you keep something in reserve for when the air gets thin near the 2000 metre summit. The final few kilometres to the end of the paved road provide the hard-earned rewards of descents and flat sections – a welcome relief on the course.

Stage 3 : Tanuf - Misfat al Abriyyn (28 KM, 445M+)
Climb : Misfat Al Abryyn 950M

Further Details for 2021:

Day One Muscat : Monday 2021

Arrival Day for 10 Day Clients

Loop : Ride distance ~20-30km

Massages Available each day

Day Two Muscat : Tuesday

Arrival Day for 8 Day Clients

Loop : Ride distance ~75km

Day Three Muscat : Wednesday 

Rest Day and city tour of Muscat

No riding

Day Four Muscat : Thursday 

Loop : Ride from Muscat distance ~80km

Depart from Muscat and head to the Desert for the night

Day Five Nizwa : Friday

Transfer from the Desert to Nizwa

Out and back : Ride to base of Jebel Akhdar distance ~20km

Regristration Day

Day Six > Eight : Saturday > Monday

Haute Route Oman

Day Nine : Tuesday 

Transfer from Nizwa to Muscat 

Departure Day for 8 Day Clients - flights in afternoon

Day Ten : Wednesday

No ride

Departure Day for 10 Day Clients

Full itinerary will be sent to our clients once they have booked

As a guide : Details from 2019

Stage by Stage:

Total 238 KM, Total Ascent 5,249m 

Event Village : Thursday 28 February 2019 : Nizwa

Stage 1 : Friday 1 March 2019 : Nizwa - Jebel al Akhdar (83.27 KM, 2,777M+)
Climb : Jebel Akhdar

Stage 2 : Saturday 2 March 2019 : Nizwa - Nizwa (145.30 KM, 2,128M+)
Climb : Hoota Climb

Stage 3 : Sunday 3 March 2019 : Al Hamra - Misfat al Abriyyn (9.33 KM, 343M+)
Climb : Misfat Al Abryyn

Riders will ride approximately 238kms with 5,200+ metres of vertical gain over the three day event. The course will test stamina and skill with long, high-altitude mountain climbs and sweeping descents. Full course information will be announced in the coming months, but the event will include two classic mass start stages and an individual time trial

The centrepiece of the Haute Route Oman experience is the magnificent Al Hajar mountain range and the iconic Jebel Akhdar (the Green Mountain) which riders will experience on Stage 1. It is one of Oman’s most spectacular locations, reaching the height of ~2,300m above sea-level! The Hajar mountains offer severe and scenic climbs which are every bit the equal of anything in the Alps, Pyrenees, Rockies or Dolomites.

The second day also features a classic road stage – this a 145.3km course taking in the 22.8km HC Hoota Climb which has an average 5.9% gradient with spikes up to 11%. The field’s reward is a summit view of Wadi Banyal – also known as the ‘Grand Canyon of Oman’ – and then a fast sweeping 23km descent.

Individual time trials on the final day will see riders pass through the idyllic 400-year-old village of Al Hamra on a 9.33km course which concludes with a 7.4% gradient mini-climb of 343m to the finish in the iconic village of Misfat Al Abryyn in the heart of the Sultanate.

• Haute Route Race Entry

• Five nights in Muscat Pre and Post Haute Route at Top Level Accommodation

• Four nights in Nizwa during the race

• Luggage logistics 
• All breakfasts, lunches and dinners
• Masseur on the twowheeltours staff
• Mechanic on the twowheeltours staff
• Staff on course at rest stops
• Laundry
• More details listed in the Haute Route FAQ Tab 

• 10 Days €5,050 - Single Occupancy

• 8 Days €4,600 - Single Occupancy

50% to confirm your place

Final payment due 1 November

• Please contact for Non Rider on Course price

• 10 Days €4,600 - Twin Share or Queen Accommodation
• 8 Days €4,150 - Twin Share or Queen Accommodation
• 10 Day Infinity Pass Holders €4,450 - Single Occupancy

• 8 Day Infinity Pass Holders €4,000 - Single Occupancy

Would you like a 9, 11, 12 day package? We can also arrange that, we can be as flexible as you need. Contact info@twowheeltours.com.au for more information.

Start and Finish Hotel - Crowne Plaza Muscat Qurm

We pride ourselves on starting and ending our fully catered tours in the best possible accommodation.

Information on the hotels where twowheeltours will stay during the event is available to our clients. If you would like details on those hotels please send us an email at info@twowheeltours.com.au

Event Hotel

Riders will once again stay in the Event Premium Hotel - The Golden Tulip Nizwa. 

What will twowheeltours offer besides race entry and support?

Oman is just amazing! The people, culture, food and riding are all so different to all the other locations we take tours. Come join us for our 10 day tour in combination with the three day event. Come travel in this safe and beautiful country. Come explore Oman. It is a tour you will never forget.  

What staffing does twowheeltours provide?

We have been fortunate enough to be at all HR 7 day events since 2011, that is all of them. Now twowheeltours will attend the HR Oman as well. We take pride in making sure all our riders need to do is focus on the event. We have our own masseur, mechanic, bag logistic manager and tour manager who rides the course with our riders. 

What will the event look like? 

The Haute Route classifies themselves as the 'highest and toughest cyclo-sportives in the world'. This three day race will include different formats which are still to be confirmed at this stage. Riders can expect to see : classic stages, marathon stages and an individual time trial -ITT. The first two stages should see riders complete two 100+km days and then participate in the ITT on Stage 3. 

Women Riding in Oman

In 2019 we had one woman rider join us on tour, she had no issues at all during our time in Muscat or during the event in Nizwa. 16% of the race entrants were Women in 2019.  

We also had four other women join as non-riders. There were no issues with safety. Women wore conservative clothing, especially when we visited remote villages and the 

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Muscat where women are required to cover their heads, arms and wear long pants or floor-length skirts

The Road Book 2020                                                              The Guide 2020

LINK                                                                                               LINK 

Example of a PAST EDITION - Guide Book for Haute Route Oman 2019

GPX Files

We will also receive the GPX files before the event. We (twowheeltours) turn them into ‘ride with GPS’ files and then email them to our riders so you can see the elevation gains etc. EG from 2018:

Stage 1  - March 2020
https://ridewithgps.com/trips/45141510
84km with 2,869m

Stage 2 - March 2020
https://ridewithgps.com/trips/45141511
140.7km with 2,058m

Stage 3 - March 2020
https://ridewithgps.com/trips/45141513
28.1km with 438m

Grimpeur Magazine 

The Haute Route quarterly digital magazine is the go-to reference for all things Haute Route. Featuring exclusive interviews, rider profiles, event previews, unique articles, guest columns and much much more. A great resource for all Haute Route riders.

February - Spring 2019                                                            Summer 2019

Autumn 2019                                                                                  Winter 2019

Spring 2020

What will your Haute Route Race day will look like?

• Wake up between 0530 and 0600 - depending on the stage start time
• Breakfast between 0530 and 0700 - depending on the stage start time. All breakfasts are included
• Drop your mussette(s) at reception, you will see those bags again on course/at the stage finish. In those bags you can put nutrition, extra clothing and/or leave clothing at the rest stops. For you finish bag you can pack comfortable shoes, t-shirt or wind vest and any other clothes
• Stage start between 0700 and 0800
• You will see on of our vehicles during each stage for assistance. Where they are located depends on each stage, taking into consideration, weather and the distance of the stage. At the end of each stage you will find a twowheeltours staff member to welcome you. You can get a cold drink, offer you something to eat, pass along your mussette and give you directions to lunch and the location of the hotel 
• Stage finish between 1130 and 1700 
• A hot lunch is served by the race organisers
• Massages and hot showers are available near the finish line. If you want a massage from the race organisers, you will need to register when you arrive. A time slot will be given to everyone, to avoid waiting. twowheeltours will have their own massage therapist on tour
• Briefing for riders at 1830 in the race village - a twowheeltours representative will be at the briefing to collect information to share with you at dinner
• Dinner with twowheeltours usually from 1830

Extras you will receive

• Full Haute Route cycling kit including a jersey, knicks and arm-coolers
• Hundreds of Marshals along the route and at intersections
• Motorcycle escorts, many of whom have assisted at the TdF in years past  (1 escort for every 15/17 riders)
• Presence of security vehicles to escort the peloton (including a sag wagon/bus)
• Medical team who are also on the road during the event and at each finish village
• Mavic Mechanical support during the race and at the villages
• Timing and tracking system, see how fast you got to the top of all the cols
• For your bike and for identification you will receive a personalised frame plate and two official numbers to wear daily
• Rest stops at the tops of cols and also along the route with food, drinks and energy products
• Daily rankings (Solo, Team, and by age group and sex)
• Hot lunch at the end of each stage
• Each night there is a safety briefing followed by an aperitif but we will have our own briefing at the hotel
• Closing party held at the finishing city
• A medal for each finisher
• A finishing shirt 
• A personalised certificate to download

Other benefits which are available but not necessarily needed as you are on thetwowheeltours package:

• Secure bike park at each finish village
• Hot showers at each finish village
• Access to a bike wash area at each finish village
• Videos produced daily and published to youtube which are shown during safety briefings
• You will also receive a Haute Route ‘race day’ back pack 

Official Guide - maps - route details:

All riders receive via e-mail, the Haute Route Official Guide - below is an example from 2016 of what the document looks like:

What other support over and above that provided by the Haute Route organisation does twowheeltours offer?

We are a Fully Catered tour, we provide you with all land based transfers from the closest airport / train station / your hotel in the host city to our top level accommodation in Muscat. There we will enjoy a few days before heading out into the desert, where we will spend one night away from everything before heading to the event hotel in Nizwa. We provide all breakfasts and dinners, drinks including alcohol, bag logistics, staff on course and also at the finish line of each stage, staff member riding the course taking photos*, laundry, non-rider partner program with their own guide and daily activities, cooler and baskets stocked with extra food and beverages post race and personalised attention. 

You will also see twowheeltours staff on course during each stage. Each morning riders will drop their mussettes / feed station bags at our hotel's reception which will be taken to the designated mountain passes / feed zones. Riders receive a back pack from the Race Organisers plus a musette from twowheeltours to be used for these bags. In these bags riders can put clothes / food / bottles etc. Each stage varies but you will usually see two twowheeltours staff members on each stage. 

*Bring an 8G thumb drive and receive the photos for nothing at the end of the trip.  Or if you have an Apple Product we can Air Drop.

Haute Route Video

Have you watched the HR Video on what to pack / bring? Now you will have some questions, not all points relate to you as your are on our tour:

Haute Route Bag - You can take the HR bag IF YOU WANT, we give you twowheeltours luggage tags which you put on your bags, preferably two which we move everyday, one large bag and one backpack. You drop your bags to reception each morning and our team move them to the next hotel. We recommend that you take the HR (small) back pack, you can use that on course. Also, we give you another little bag which you can use for another rest stop during the stage. At reception each morning we have signs to designate where our staff will be on course and you put the bags where you want to see them. At the end of the day, our staff bring them back to the hotel.

Our staff on Course - The location of our staff on course varies each day, due to weather, distance and other logistical factors.

Bike Bag - The race organisers take your bag from Registration to Stage 7 - ie Geneva to Venice or whichever are your start and finish villages. You can put any gear in the bike bag which you do not want to see for eight days. Many of our clients will place their HR Travel Bag (90 litres) in their bike box for a momento. There is no access to your bike bag once it is dropped off on the registration afternoon through to after Stage 7.

Rules - if you DNF one stage you can still start the next stage. You may not receive a shirt at the end but you will receive a medal.

Teams in 2021

This will replace the Duo competition within each Haute Route event.

Some riders may remember the HR used to have a team competition a few years ago and by popular demand it will make a return in 2021. The beauty of the team classification is that each rider will still get an individual time as well as an overall time for the team worked out on the fastest 4 members to finish each day.

So a group of friends/ colleagues/ members of a club can both race and have fun as a team while still knowing how they measure up against the rest of the opposition.

Team from 4 to 6 riders - Team Men only (3 fastest times counting) - Team Women only (3 fastest times counting) - Team Mixed (3 fastest times counting – 1 at least must be a female or a male).

Riders competing in Team category will also be ranked individually in Solo Man or Woman.

twowheeltours can assist in supporting your team to help reach your goals with on course support, bottles on the fly etc.

How hard is the Haute Route?

It is hard, no doubt about it, there is a reason why it is called the 'Toughest and Highest Cyclo-Sportives in the World'. 

The Oman event has something different to other HR events - it has Jebel Akhdar - GCN did a video about the steepness of the climb. They specifically mention the climb around the  6:42 min mark of this clip.

Luckily enough, I was intereviewd at the finish line of the Haute Route Dolomites 2016 event, here's what was reported:

Forty-year-old Sydneysider Will Levy was celebrating a unique achievement, having become the only rider to complete every Haute Route event since the first one in the Alps in 2011. “I feel good…probably better than I did after the first one in 2011, that was extremely hard because you didn't know what was going to happen with riding for 7 days in a row. It has been an amazing experience to go through from the beginning until now and on into the future. Things certainly become easier once you have one Haute Route under your belt.” 

What is Will’s advice to someone thinking of taking on an Haute Route event? “The fitter you are, the more fun you’ll have. These are not just Saturday or Sunday rides – you need to come prepared and the better prepared you are the more fun you will have,” he said.

Is it a ride or a race?

The top 50, or so, riders go hard. They do not mess around, do quick rest stops, many times miss the timed rest stops and not much chatting in the bunch. Not to say that the riders from 51 to the back of the bunch do not ride hard but there is definitely a different mentality. There is nothing worse than going hard on Stage 1 and cooking yourself for the remainder of the stages. 

Timed sections

This varies each day, there is no set rule. The Haute Route try to get as much of the day’s ride as a timed section. Some days there may be a 10km neutral ‘roll-out’ from the start while other days there may be 1km, each day is different. The weather also plays a major part, if it is wet/raining etc they may cancel the timed descents for safety reasons. 

When there are non-timed descents, riders will go as fast as they can up the hill and cross the timing mat. More than likely, there will be a feed-station at the top of that climb, where the timing will stop. These feed stations are very relaxed and people ‘hang-out’ to refuel, rehydrate etc.

Then riders usually take the descent ‘easy' and many times you will find a large group waiting before the timing mat, which is generally located at the bottom of the hill/mountain. This situation happens more-so if there is a valley or long flat section. Then someone usually takes change and decides when to roll out when the group looks ’strong enough’.

If there is a non-timed descent going straight into another timed climb, people will just roll across the timing mat as they please. 

I think I need a training program?

Each rider is different. A training program certainly helps, especially when talking to a coach who has a wealth of experience and who has completed many cyclo-sportives.

We like to encourage riders that the fitter they are, the more fun they will have. 

We have a range of coaches who we highly recommend. For further details on training programs, costs etc - CLICK HERE. 

Riders may also be interested in reading a paper by Geoff Nash who has written an in-depth paper on a riders power from the Haute Route Dolomites - CLICK HERE for the paper.

I would like to have a 9 or 11+ day package

twowheeltours is more than happy to assist with this request. Please email us on info@twowheeltours.com.au so that we can organise exactly what you would like. We are more than able to assist you if you would like to come in two nights before the tour or spend extra nights in Muscat. We can be as flexible as you need.

You're an Australian tour company, do you have riders on your tours who are not from Australia?

We have clients on our tours from all over the world, Russia, Australia, NZ, UK, USA, Canada, Japan, South Africa, Brazil, France, the Netherlands, Italy, Czech Republic and Spain. Each year many of our riders return to do the Haute Route with twowheeltours, which is a great honour. 

Rooming

All prices listed are single supplement. For dual occupancy, other than your wife, please email us on info@twowheeltours.com.au

Hotels 

Hotels are listed soon after the Haute Route releases the race routes. We strive to get the best possible accommodation during the race. 

Wifi - Internet Access

Our hotels all have internet. We have never had problems getting on line with multiple devices for the one person - so using your mobile, laptop etc is okay.

What about transporting my bike to the event?

Packing your bike with care and in a specific case. This is the safest way to get your bike to the start of the event in one piece. Youtube clip on how to box your bike.

How do I pack my bike? 

Drop into your favourite Local Bike Store (LBS) and ask them to assist you. You could ask them to do it first then build it up, then you have a go - all for a price. Or you can become a profession via youtube - LINK. We will be there to help you build your bike. 

Which bike box should I use?

How long is a piece of string, there are SO many out on the market it is amazing, each year there seems to be something new and improved. We have used the EVOC Bike Travel Bag for the last 4 years - they have now updated to the PRO. We have used the EVOC Travel Bag countless of times for our MTB and road tours. It has NEVER had any issues, NEVER had my bike damaged and we really like it. I also have two ‘bits’ to make life a bit easier - CHAIN COVER & ROAD BIKE ADAPTOR. It may take a little longer to use this bike but once you have done with travel the bag compacts down. When boxing the bike, we would highly recommend removing the derailleur from the derailleur-tip but that takes a few extra seconds - youtube clip - this is a clip is by 'Computer' a Sydney mechanic, excuse his hair and finger nails, he really is a good guy! Other options are : Polaris do some very good models - LINK or Scicon Bags - LINK or there is the Helium one which gets great reviews - LINK OR go to your LBS and get a cardboard box.

Where can I build my bike?

We will have a designated area at the start and finish of the tour which can be used to build your bike. We will be there to assist with the building of your bike. 

Help will be there if necessary

To assist you in building your bike there will be the required tools plus bike stand, track pumps, torque wrench, grease, chain lube, rags, plastic gloves and hand wipes.

Have you ever had troubles transporting your bike on airlines?

In many years of traveling with a bike, there has never been any issues with boxing and flying with our bikes. Note, some airlines do charge for excess baggage while others do not. We do not know the policy on each carrier but we know that United, American Airlines and Lufthansa charge for bike boxes whereas Virgin Atlantic does not so long as it is under 23kg / 50 lbs & 62” / 158cm total linear cm and Qatar / Qantas allow you to bring your bike as long as it is within your 30kg limit. Please make sure you weigh your bike before you get to the airport and it is also highly recommended that you check prices and the fine print for excess luggage (ie bike bags / sporting equipment) with whoever you are flying with. Please do this before you get to the airport.

What time does the race start each day?

Riders start each days stage from the Haute Route Village at various times depending on the length of the day's stage. The earliest has been 7:00am. On the time trial day start times differ depending on your over-all accumulated standing. That day the starts go from last to first.

What time does the race finish each day?

Again depending on the length of the day and how fast you ride. From the previous Haute Route stages finishes have concluded anywhere from 1pm through to 5pm.

Is there a minimum speed average?

Each day the race organisers set a cut off time and minimum average speed depending on the length of the stage.

What is there to do at the end of the days rides?

Relax, put your feet in a fountain, shower, eat, talk to other riders, take a nap, rehydrate, grab a massage then eat and drink some more. There is generally a reasonable amount of time to relax before dinner.

Tools and other equipment

twowheeltours will have a full tool kit for your use on the tour as per listed above including track pumps.

What should I bring?

It is highly recommended that riders bring tubes, mini tool, levers etc which you would normally take on a long ride - recommended pack list.

During the HR riders will need to be somewhat self sufficient. There is always a company associated with the event who are there to assist where needed but will not change tubes for you. It is also recommend that riders bring specific spokes and derailleur tip/hanger - you will be reminded of this during the booking phase. There will be cables, chains and tires, if it gets to that point, available at stage finishes. 

Mandatory Haute Route Packing List

The Haute Route wants to ensure that each rider comes to the event fully prepared for colder temperatures, and not only rainy weather. The Haute Route Oman event is slightly different to the other HR Events. They still require the mandatory items:

Hardshell helmet

Rain jacket / Spray Jacket

Average Temperatures

October : Muscat 24C > 34C // Nizwa 22C > 36C // Desert 22C > 33C // Jebel al Akhdar 14C > 27C

What role do the Roving Event Mechanics Play?

There will be around 5 staff, in a fleet of 3-4 cars, which follow the peloton throughout every stage. During the event, technicians in cars - or at fixed service points - will ensure rapid repairs in the case of any mechanical problems.

Bike servicing and washing

All riders, pre Haute Route, should have their bikes FULLY serviced including, bottom bracket wear/tear, rims checked, new tires, inner tubes, brakes and cables. At each village there are facilities to wash your bike and yes you will be able to use our tools for any of your needs. There is NO charge for our mechanical work.

Bike washing

Bikes do not need to be washed each day.  

Gearing

It is recommended to have a compact crank. In previous years there have been just a few riders who had standard cranks. About what to run in the rear, ask yourself this question, do you spend much of your time riding in the granny around home? If so you'll be in it a lot during the Haute Route. Also think about climbing a mountain which is 20+ kms, that can be around 2 hours of going up. Most of our clients have a compact at the front and 11-32 cassette, the climb up Jebel Akhdar is very tough with many sections +15% (this strava link is from the test event in 2018 and may not be the same for the following years events).

Travel Insurance 

You MUST organise your own travel insurance. You MUST make sure all aspects, medical, flights etc. are covered.

For Australians, twowheeltours can recommend velosure - they are aware of our insurance needs. Each policy will differ due to a variety of circumstances, ie age and dates travelled etc. They are happy to assist in giving an obligation free quote. Please head to their website for more information. 

COVID & HR Insurance : Four Points

1. Get extra cover with the Haute Route optional Insurance Policy

The HR insurance covers accidents, injuries, or even changing your mind (for all events except for Mexico and Brazil). 

The cost for the HR Insurance Policy is 15% of the value of your package (for example, your entry fee as your accommodation and other details are covered by twowheeltours) and it must be purchased at the time of registration. Riders who you have an entry code from twowheeltours, can purchase this during their booking on the HR website. 

The HR Insurance Policy does not require you to give a specific reason for cancelling your registration, but like most insurance companies, Circle Policy excludes COVID-19 from their coverage. Riders will deal direct with the HR to claim their Insurance. 

If any rider is unable to attend an event due to COVID-19, we will offer them the chance to transfer their registration to another event in 2021 or 2022 as detailed below. 

Please note that HR Insurance Policy option is only available for European events and Oman. 

Learn more about insurance : https://faq.hauteroute.org/knowledge/cancellation-insurance

2. You don’t need insurance to cancel    

If any rider cannot or does not want to come to an event, they can cancel their HR registration at any time. 

Once riders have booked with twowheeltours, you are to let us know that you will not longer be able to attend and we will deal direct the the HR.

Entry fees and extra services will be refunded, minus a percentage which varies depending on the length of time before the event.   

You can find the details of these rates in the sales conditions. 

The full sales conditions : https://www.hauteroute.org/policies/view/general-sales-conditions

3. Transfer your registration

Things are changing fast at the moment, so we are keeping things flexible. If COVID-19 is still impacting our events in 2021, we will give affected riders the opportunity to transfer their registration to another event in 2021 or 2022 for an administration fee of €50.   

Once riders have booked with twowheeltours, you are to let us know that you will not longer be able to attend and we will deal direct the the HR.

Each case will be reviewed individually so we can work with riders on the best solution for their particular situation.

4. If HR have to cancel an event, riders will have options.   

As Haute Route events have smaller participation numbers than many other sporting events, we are exempt from many current restrictions. This gives us confidence looking forward to next year’s events.   

However, if we are forced to cancel one of our events, all registered riders will be given the opportunity to transfer their entry to another event in 2021 or 2022.

Do I need a Cycling Licence?

There is no cycling licence needed. A medical certificate signed by your Dr stating that you are fit for cycling is required. You will receive this once you have completed the HR registration. Once you have it signed by your Dr, you will be required to upload it to the HR website. twowheeltours can assist with this if necessary. Please make sure that you BRING the original document to the start of the tour. If you are from the EU a Cycling Licence is necessary.

Diet - Food on Trip

Travelling away from home is always an adventure. The food in Oman is not the same as 'home'. 

As we offer Fully Catered tours we supply you with breakfast and dinner. The race organisers supply you daily with lunch during the tour. The food in Oman is excellent, we will experience top level hotel meals and also stop at some road side restaurants to sample true Omanie food. 

If you have eating requirements/needs please let us know when you book in the comments section and we will endeavour to meet your needs.

Sports Nutrition

Everyone has their favourites nutrition companies. Please bring along what you are happy with. Please remember that some host villages may not have what you want. 

Want more information about Specific Sports Nutrition for the Haute Route - Chloe McLeod is a Sports Dietitian who we used to help guide our clients to smarter eating for such events - more information click here. 

Bringing my own nutrition, any issues with quarantine?

In regards to bringing your own powders and large tubs of powders, we have had clients bring their own from home and they have never had an issue. Most put powder into a zip lock bag, leaving the big tub at home. We would not recommend for you to bring copious amounts of gels/powders etc as there may be an issue. If forms require please declare what you have in your bag. Lastly, please pack it in your checked luggage. 

Food at rest stops

At the top of each col there are 'full stations' and these have: Fresh fruit - oranges and bananas; Dried fruit - figs, apricots, sultanas; Cereal bar; Cake - savoury; Cake - sweet; Coke or cordial; Water; Energy powder; Energy bars; Energy gels - more info below.

There are also 'light stations' - these are located half way up some col's or after a long flat section. These stations have: Dried fruit - figs, apricots, sultanas; Cereal bar; Water; Energy powder.

Medical assistance during the Haute Route

Riders’ safety is the N°1 priority of the organisers of the Haute Route. Each year they entrust medical support to a team of professionals who are experienced with large endurance participation events (cyclosportives, running, trail running, adventure raids...).

The medical service on the Haute Route will be provided by a team of doctors, nurses, emergency technicians, and ambulances in sufficient numbers depending on the current rules and the specifications of the event. For medical reasons, a participant can temporarily or permanently be withdrawn from the race. A medical emergency number will be put in place so that each participant can easily, in case of a medical problem, let the Race Organisation know.

How safe is the Haute Route?

The route is not closed to vehicles, but it is secured and riders will benefit from a right of way during the timed sections of the race. Several hundred marshals will be present on the road to ensure the peloton’s safety, but ultimately YOU are responsible for your own safety whilst on your bike. It is an amazing experience seeing all the 'lollipop' men and women at the hunderds of intersections! In addition to the race management cars (head, middle and back of the peloton), motorbikes specialised in cycling races will surround the Haute Route participants.

In some regions, the Haute Route will benefit from the support of the local and State police to secure the strategic crossings. An “end of race” vehicles will close the race. All riders must respect the traffic laws:

• To cycle on the right hand side of the road, at ALL times
• To respect the road signs put in place by the organisation
• To respect the traffic lights if they are not secured by motorbike or by a marshal
• To respect other road users who are not involved in the race
• To wear your helmet at all times
• To display your bib on your back and your frame plate on the front of the handlebars at all times.

Most stages start with a secured and non-timed convoy of all the participants, at a regulated speed, until the real start line (when timing starts). Each rider will have to scrupulously respect the instructions given by the race management team. When the real finish line of the stage (when timing stops) is located before the arrival in a host city, riders will have to continue to abide by the traffic laws for the remaining kilometers, especially as they won’t be benefiting from any right of way.

Bike Bags

Bike bags will be transported from the start village to the end, you will NOT see that bag till the end. They are transported by twowheeltours.

How fast is each stage, what level of cyclist do I need to be to complete the Haute Route?

The fitter you are the more fun you will have. The race orgnisers have a cut off time for each stage. That can vary depending on the distance of the day and the difficulty of the day's stage. We have had many clients on our Haute Route tours over the years. Some have finished in the top 5 and others have finished in the bottom 5. The secret to finishing the tour is being able to complete back to back difficult rides. Also not to stop for 30 mins at the rest stops. 

If you continue to cycle for the entire stage and take note of the cut off times, posted at the tops of hills and also on one of the motorbikes, you will have a very good chance of completing the stage in the allotted time.   

Clothing and washing

It is recommended that riders bring at least 3 sets of cycling clothing. twowheeltours gives you a wash/laundry bag [WB] at the start of the tour. We will wash your kits during the tour. We will not put the WB in the dryer. On wash days there is a collection bag left near reception. Riders get their WB back before dinner. 

You will receive a Haute Route cycling kit which all riders are encouraged to wear on the first and last day.

Other info on what to bring can be found here. Unfortunately we cannot wash all your day to day clothes. 

Is there gear that I HAVE to wear?

You can cycle in whatever gear you would like. It is not mandatory to cycle in the Haute Route race kit but they appreciate you wearing it on the first and last day. 

Clothing

For the official dinners and functions - there is no dress code. Even at our welcome dinner and farewell dinner there is no specific dress code, jeans, t-shirt and sneakers are more than suitable. There is only so much you can pack.

On one day we will visit the truly amazing Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. They have a dress code - men and women must be dressed conservatively. Men long trousers and covered shoulders : Women covered head, covered arms, and long pants or floor-length skirts. 

I've booked my ticket via twowheeltours, what next?

You main focus once you have booked with us is training and booking your flights. You will be required to completed some twowheeltours paper work.

You will also be required to complete the online-entry from OC Sport.

Paper work

We require you to sign a waiver from twowheeltours. You will also be required to complete a medical form from OC Sport - this form will need to be completed by a Certified Doctor and stamped by them. This is MANDATORY, if you do not have this you will NOT be able to race.  

Hotels - are the hotels used by twowheeltours different to those used by the Haute Route organisation?

As the route changes yearly this is difficult to answer. We at twowheeltours offer you the best accommodation that is available to us, some hotels are very large while others are small. 

Location of Hotels

How close is the accommodation to the start/finish? We aim to put you in the best accommodation that is as close to the start/finish line as possible. 

Non-riding partners

For non-riding partners - what activities are planned? This varies year to year. We take pride in offering those partners who do not ride the opportunity to have an enjoyable time, not just sit in the van and watch/wait for the riders. When your partner signs up we like to find out what he/she enjoys to do, whether that be hiking, visiting villages, cooking classes and/or markets and provide them with a variety of activities during the tour. Non-riding partners will catch up in the evenings with the riders. We all dine together and you will spend the night together.

Payment

Upon booking a deposit is required, all details of payments will be outlined on your invoice.

How do I make the remaining payments?

Via direct deposit, all details of payments will be outlined on your invoice.

What wheels should I bring?

Over the years we have ridden the Haute Route with the aluminium wheels, fitted with clincher tires. An Alloy set-up is also recommended by the race organisers due to the length and steepness of the descents in Oman. We would HIGHLY recommend that you leave tubular tires at home. 

twowheeltours has been lucky enough to have been involved with events such as the Haute Route (since 2011) and the Ride Across Portugal (since 2017) - both of their inception years. Since then, we have had hundreds of riders from +20 countries join us on cyclo-sportive tours.  

Some of the most important factors to remember:

Events like the Haute Route and Ride Across Portugal have been around for years and if this is your first multi-day, welcome to the family.

The stages are not ALL about climbs, remember, what goes up must come down and then there are all those rolling hills plus flat sections where teamwork is an advantage!

Make sure you have done some bunch riding.

Also, make sure you have done some riding in the rain. Nobody likes getting wet but there is always the chance that a stage may be a damp one.   

At the end of each tour, we ask our clients for advice for those who are attempting a multi-day cycling event:

Use a Tour Operator, twowheeltours.

Paolo - Italy 

If travelling with twowheeltours, you don't need to think of, or stress over, any details. Everything is taken care of.

Steve - Wales

Train, train and train.

Eimear - Ireland

On the bike > breathe ... eat ... drink ... enjoy!

Owen - Australia

Embrace the experience! Rain, punctures, cramp, bone-chilling cold, transfers - they are all part of what makes the Haute Route such a challenge. And talk to your fellow riders - everyone has a story to tell.

Adrian - Australia

Have the utmost confidence in the professionalism of twoweeltours and Will's staff.

Sergio - Italy

Preparation. Most important is consistent training and lots of it. Work on strength and endurance. Focus on getting the body to recover from a long day and be ready for the next.

Grant - Australia

Preparation and attention to detail. Put in the kms of training. This is not something that can be finished without true training preparation in the legs. Also, invest in a really good "butt butter" type product that works for you and figure out how to minimize saddle sore discomfort.

Paul - USA

Buy a Castelli Gabba!! [Prepare for all weather conditions]

Mark - Australia

Train - simulate actual event.

Stan - USA

Train a lot. Prepare for all weather conditions. Eat a lot on the bike. Take in the scenery.

Dave - Australia

Train, train and train to be able to enjoy the HR and not suffer every day.

Mike - Netherlands

Install a climbing cassette before you leave.

Stephen - Australia

Haute Route is a long event - bad days could be followed by good days...so take it easy the first two days and always pay attention to good nutrition.

Stefan - Brazil

Train for a solid three months including a significant amount of hill climbing. You must have a high dgree of fitness otherwise you are wasting your time. Also put on a 32 cassette. 

Noel - Australia

Don't allow the physical and psychological challenge of the HR to get in the way of enjoying the wonders associated with riding a bike through some of the most beautiful natural scenery one can find anywhere.

Paul - Switzerland

Arrive fit with experience of 10km climbs.

Geoff - Australia

Train, train and then train more. If your goal is too complete a seven day event, make sure you pace yourself on the first few days and then if you feel good you can increase your effort on the later stages. If your goal is to position as high as possible I now know that you need to push yourself hard from day 1! But no matter what your goal is just try and take it all in and enjoy the moment. 

Will - UK

Trust Will’s advice and descend within your abilities.

Bruce - Australia

Don't worry about going hard to stay in a group as the twt guys will be there to support the first and last rider.  

Richard - Australia

Do the necessary hill training and endurance work. Use hill repeats if no long hills available.

Aidan - Ireland

Train, Prepare mentally, get use to eating a lot of food with heavy training. Learn the in’s and out’s of your bike, you will pick up early if something isn’t right.

Mitch - Australia

Don't pack too much cycling gear, there are wash days.

Graham - Australia

Train well, get a a couple of back to back days in ideally in mountain terrain.

Kieran - Ireland

Talk to as many of the group as you can - all great people with different experiences as riders and otherwise. Don't stress about the weather- you cannot change it. 

JR - Australia

Train to do the length of rides that are planned so you can enjoy them.

Mark - Australia 

Train hard. Seek advice from others. Understand you will be grinding / spinning up a slope for what main be two or more hours. Hopefully you are confident with that.

David - Australia

Keep riding, let Will tell you stories, use his energy, if everyone else is doing it you can too (in terms of fitness), relax and have fun. For Ride Across Portugal, it’s not a race it’s a ride, you literally have nothing else to do all day other than ride your bike.

Kristin - USA

Good gearing, avoid deep dish wheels up high in the wind, and do not chase on day one. 

Stephen - Australia

It's worth getting fit for the trip rather than hoping you'll ride into it. If you're fitter and therefore don't struggle as much on the climbs you can enjoy the scenery.

Adrian - Australia

It's a 7 day race. Pace the 7 stages, save something for the end of each day and the last couple of days. For a HR 3 day event, it is lot different from HR 7 day. 3 day with add-on tourism package means you can really enjoy it. I guess only advice would be to train right ahead of time. Make sure you are ready for climbing.

Brent - USA

I want to say do it with an organised group like twowheeltours but in hindsight, I appreciate that my first HR was done with friends only, doing all the extra bits myself. It made me really appreciate the luxury of Will & crew and how much easier it made the stages. So my real advice to a first timer is to ask advice, from people that you know that have done it before. Even regarding travel and best routes etc. Understand all the logistically elements before you arrive, so that you can have fun in the race and don't have to sweat the small stuff either side of the stages. It makes the whole event more relaxed and enjoyable

Jocelyn - Australia

Go easy on day one! 

Simon - Australia

Find an experienced coach and ask him to make a training plan for Haute Route. If the coach has done a Haute Route or done stage racing that would be better. Spend time on training as much as you can so that you will not regret. You need to do some 6+ hour days as part of your training.
Don't care about other riders who pass you. 
Keep your pace - the Haute Route is long.
Never work too hard especially on the first day.
Don't think about the upcoming passes and stages which remain, just concentrate on the climb or descend you are facing.

Kenji - Japan

Pace yourself - don't go full gas on day 1 or at the start of any stage unless you are an experienced stage racer.

David - Australia

Get a good training program that focuses on hill climbing and endurance - do the prep, ride to your ability, pace your efforts to enjoy each day. 

Michelle - Australia

We also offer a NON RIDING partner program - imagine your own multi-lingual tour guide, taking you to cultural and architectural highlights of the region then meeting up with the riders after each stage at the best local restaurants

In conjunction with and supporting the fully catered rider’s tours to all our events, twowheeltours offers partners a very special travel experience. Our Non-Riding Partner Program is led by a multilingual guide who will take you on a cultural journey covering the following highlights:

                All lunches and morning/afternoon teas

                Visits to unique historical landmarks

                Walks through national parks

                Cooking classes at exceptional restaurants

                Casual riding on electric bikes through picturesque villages and landscapes

                Wine tasting and vineyard tours 

                Opportunity to customise the Program to your own interests

• 11 Days €3,400
• 10 Days €3,200
• 6 Day Tours vary depending on the event location - please contact twowheeltours for more information  

Please contact twowheeltours  for further information and to register your interest for this unique and exciting program