The Tour de France, an iconic event in world cycling, attracts millions of spectators each year. With a route that changes from year to year, one question often arises: where exactly does the Tour de France go? This carefully crafted route crosses iconic regions of France and, sometimes, other countries. In this article, we will explore in detail the Tour's route, the legendary stages and the criteria that determine its itinerary.
A constantly evolving route
1. The selection criteria for the stages
The Tour de France route is redefined every year, offering a diversity of landscapes and challenges to the riders. Several criteria come into play when selecting the stages:
- Geographic balance: The organizers ensure that the Tour covers different regions, highlighting the cultural and natural wealth of France.
- Sports equity: The route should include flat stages for the sprinters, mountain stages for the climbers, and time trials for the specialists.
- Popularity of host cities: Cities that host the start or finish of a stage benefit from high visibility, which motivates their candidacy.
New products every year
To keep fans and riders interested, the organizers regularly introduce new routes and challenges. This allows for variety in strategies and makes each edition unique.
2. The Great Departure
The Grand Départ, the first stage of the Tour, is a key event that attracts worldwide attention. It takes place every year in a different city, sometimes even outside France.
An international dimension
In recent years, cities such as Copenhagen, Brussels and Düsseldorf have had the honour of hosting this prestigious start, reinforcing the international image of the Tour de France.
The emblematic stages
1. The legendary passes
The Tour de France is famous for its legendary climbs in the Alps and the Pyrenees. Passes like Alpe d'Huez, Tourmalet or Mont Ventoux have become symbols of surpassing oneself.
A challenge for runners
These mountain stages test the physical and mental strength of the cyclists, providing a captivating spectacle for spectators.
2. The urban stages
The Tour also includes urban stages, with arrivals in major cities such as Paris, Lyon or Bordeaux. These stages bring the event closer to a wider audience.
A cultural and economic impact
Stage cities benefit from increased visibility, attracting tourists and media from around the world.
A route designed for the show
1. The plain stages
The flat stages, often conducive to mass sprints, offer moments of intensity where speed is king. These stages are also an opportunity for spectators to discover bucolic landscapes.
A field for sprinters
These stages allow the sprint specialists to shine and compete for the green jersey, which rewards the best sprinter.
2. Time trials
Time trials, whether individual or team, are strategic stages where every second counts. These stages test the technical and physical abilities of the riders.
Guaranteed suspense
Time trials often provide twists and turns in the general classification, captivating fans until the final kilometer.
The regions crossed
1. The essentials
The Tour regularly passes through emblematic regions such as Brittany, Provence and Burgundy. These territories rich in history and traditions add a cultural dimension to the competition.
A tribute to French heritage
Each region crossed is an opportunity to highlight its specificities, whether through its landscapes, its gastronomy or its architectural heritage.
2. Foreign Incursions
The Tour de France is not limited to the French borders. Incursions into neighboring countries such as Spain, Switzerland or Italy enrich the route.
An international reach
These stages strengthen ties between nations and allow the Tour de France to establish its reputation on a global scale.
How to follow the Tour route?
1. Official maps
Each year, the organizers publish a detailed map of the route, available on the official Tour de France website. This map includes routes, schedules and points of interest for spectators.
An essential tool
These maps allow fans to plan their attendance and choose the best locations to cheer on the runners.
2. Mobile applications
Dedicated applications allow you to follow the Tour in real time, with information on rankings, gaps and key events.
An immersive experience
These modern tools make the Tour de France accessible to everyone, wherever you are.
Conclusion
The Tour de France crosses through diverse and emblematic regions, offering a unique spectacle at each edition. Whether you are on site or behind your screen, the route of this competition remains a journey through the beauty and diversity of France. To learn more about the history and symbols of the Tour, visit Flags Expert.
