Entries for the Alpine Challenge 2014, due to take place from September 3 to September 7, are now open.

Part of HotChillee’s Global Event Series, participants on the three-day event will face more than 8,000m of climbing on the 330km route.

Conquering some of the Tour de France’s most toughest ascents – this year’s route included Col de la Croix Fry, Col des Aravis and Col de la Forclaz – the demanding Alpine route attracts riders from across the globe.

Marketed as offering sportive riders the ProTour experience, the event starts with a prologue which includes 844m of climbing into the mountains surrounding Annecy.

Times in the prologue then determine the speed groups participants will be part of for the next three stages, ensuring riders are in a peloton with those of a similar ability.

Each group is provided with ride captains, Skoda lead cars, moto outriders and a full support crew of mechanics and paramedics.

The Alpine Challenge is open to riders of all abilities, and there are red and pink leaders’ jerseys for those looking for a more competitive challenge and a best team award for teams of up to four riders.

Rob Dewer, who completed in this year’s challenge, said: “The Alpine Challenge is exhausting, but coming into the finishing straight is unbelievably rewarding.

“The organisation is second to none and I loved every section. Being able to socialise with riders of all abilities, from former Tour de France winners to those that are fairly new to riding, on the shores of Lake Annecy is great.”

Riding starts at 9am each day, from the rider village on the shores of Lake Annecy, and is complete by mid-afternoon with a 30-minute Eurosport programme on the event aired after the finish.

Stephen Niblett, from this year’s best team award winners, Team Chain Reaction Cycles, added: “It’s been brilliant and completely outperformed my expectations. It’s a fantastic event, with amazing climbs and stunning views.”

To enter the 2014 event or for more information visit www.thealpinechallenge.com