Stage by stage

stage 15 - Foix Loudenvielle - Le Louron 196 km
Monday 23 July

High mountain stages - A sporting perspective

Thierry Gouvenou, regulator, 7 Tours de France:

"Without a doubt, this will be one of the major stages of the Tour, with no fewer than five referenced mountain passes - including the Port de Balès (19.5 km at 6.2%), a first for the Tour. A tense stage, which will be reserved for the true mountain specialists, with many points to be taken for the polka dot jersey."

 
 
Maps and routes

The route

Foix Loudenvielle - Le Louron - 196 km
 

Foix

Comtal castle (Picture: City of Foix)

Proudly hailing its red and gold colors, Foix lies at the center of Ariège department and draws many tourists, thanks to its great historic tradition, both medieval and Cathar. Famous for the Castle of the Counts of Foy
(10th-15th centuries) which stands atop a rocky peak, Foix hosts a variety of public services as well as dynamic companies. Within exceptional natural surroundings, the city provides a diversity of services and shops, as well as a wealth of cultural and artistic opportunities (l’Estive Theater, cinemas, Media library, Museum of Ariège at the Castle, Museum of hunting...) as well as numerous sports facilities (pool, kayaking course, cycling track, gymnasium, martial arts dojo...). Over the summer, a very festive atmosphere takes over the town: jazz festival, « Trad’estiu » traditional festival, historic show (involving more than 200 amateurs, held for over 20 years), African festival...

 

Loudenvielle-Le Louron

Town Hall (Picture: J. Masson)

Loudenvielle, a little mountain village at the side of a lake, lies in the Louron Valley, at the foot of the mythical col de Peyresourde, in the Hautes-Pyrenees. The valley environment is intact, with multiple activities and a rich heritage: a real jewel in the heart of the central Pyrenees. In winter, there are two ski resorts, Peyragudes and Val Louron, to satisfy all snow lovers: on piste skiing, cross-country skiing, raquettes, huskies, speed-riding, etc.
In summer, the valley is transformed into a realm of trekking and open-air leisure activities. Sportsmen or amateurs, as a family or with friends, numerous itineraries invite you to discover this listed site. All year round, the 15 picturesque villages of the valley welcome you warmly and unveil to you the amazing 16th Century murals in their Roman churches. Those seeking more relaxing activities will be charmed by Balnéa, the health and well-being centre with its thermal springs.

 

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