Mountains : Epic Cycling Climbs - Michael Blann

A landscape and photography book of Europe’s most majestic mountains and historic cycling climbs for the growing audience of enthusiasts and participants around the world

The mountains of Europe have many different meanings to many different people. For the locals they are a way of life; for visitors they represent breathtaking beauty, active holidays and peaceful moments. For cyclists, however, the dramatic landscapes mean something quite different: suffering, pain, agony – and glory. From the Ardennes to the Alps, for over a century the mountains have provided the setting for the greatest cycling contests, where human determination and willpower can triumph over nature and opposition.

In recent years, the mountains of Europe have become the primary destination for urban riders who want to challenge themselves, experience the storied roads and escape their everyday lives. This publication is aimed at all who wish to be inspired by those challenges or celebrate those personal victories.

A reference section includes locator maps and climb profiles. With personal recollections from leading road-racing cyclists, photographs and words coalesce into a visual depiction that transcends any single perspective and will evoke awe and wonder in anyone who wishes to confront the power of the mountains.

With contributions by:Lizzie Armitstead, Romain Bardet, Ivan Basso, Bernie Eisel, Maurizio Fondriest, Andy Hampsten, Tao Geoghegan Hart, Sean Kelly, Greg LeMond, Robert Millar, Allan Peiper, Stephen Roche, Shane Sutton, Geraint Thomas

Michael Blann is a former professional cyclist turned photographer who works for the world’s leading creative agencies.