Tour de France Route Includes Mountain Climbs
The Tour de France starts with a mountain stage in the Alps. Riders will climb from Voiron to Orcières-Merlette. This stage is expected to be very difficult.
The first mountain stage of the 2026 Tour de France begins in Voiron. The route goes to Orcières-Merlette, a high-altitude ski resort. This stage is described as challenging for riders. It tests the strength of those who cannot handle steep climbs. The stage is considered a ‘queen stage’ of the race.
Summarized from the sources above. Read the originals for the full story.
Highlights
First Mountain Stage Begins
The Tour de France riders started the first mountain stage in the Alps.
Stage Route Details
The stage goes from Voiron to Orcières-Merlette, a ski resort.
Challenge for Sprinters
The stage is difficult for sprinters on steep climbs.
'Queen Stage' Announcement
The Bourg-d’Oisans to l’Alpe-d’Huez stage is called the ‘queen stage’.
Route Announcement Provided
The announcement gives details about the Tour de France route.
Perspectives
- The 2026 Tour de France will have mountain stages.
- The first stage starts in Voiron and ends in Orcières-Merlette.
- The stage is challenging for the riders.
- The stage tests sprinters' abilities.