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Le Grand-Bornand
169.5 km
Wednesday 22 July
This is the Tour’s densest mountain stage with five passes that count towards the best-climber classification. The challenges will rise with the terrain and the relatively short distance promises a decisive struggle between the front-runners. The climb to Romme Pass, a Tour first, will make the ascent to Colombière Pass, which starts at Reposoir, even more gruelling.
Bourg-Saint-Maurice dairy cooperative© Tourism office of Les Arcs
• 2-time stage-town
• Population 8,000
• County town of Savoie canton (73)
In the foothills of the legendary cols de l’Iseran, du Petit - Saint - Bernard and du Cormet de Roselend, Bourg-Saint-Maurice – Les Arcs is establishing itself as a landmark cycling destination. The celebrated mountain climbs and passes are for the purists; families can enjoy the 12 kilometre cycling path that runs along the banks of the Isère River and the internationally renowned white water base, a ride right at the heart of nature, in a 100 % natural environment. The 6th “Cyclocœur” competition, which will take place on the 8th and 9th of August, is organised in aid of the disabled in the valley region, a fine example of the cycling tradition to which the local inhabitants are devoted.
Further up, the high-altitude Arc resorts are also ideal for mountain biking, with one hundred kilometres of marked cycling trails, adapted to suit all levels and, in particular, the brand new Bike Park.
In winter, the towns of Bourg-Saint-Maurice – Les Arcs are transformed into a mega ski resort on one of the most immense ski areas in the world, “Paradiski”, with its 425 kilometres of ski runs. Action - packed fun in the snow is guaranteed!
The Grand-Bornand global view© Tourism office of Le Grand-Bornand
• 4-time stage-town
• Population 2,202
• Town of Haute-Savoie (74)
Nestled at the foot of the Aravis mountain range, Le Grand-Bornand is a traditional French alpine village and a booming and vibrant ski resort.
The birthplace of Reblochon cheese in the 13th century, the town is also the birthplace of Roddy Darragon, the first French Olympic medal winner in the history of cross country skiing, and Sylvie Becaert, double world biathlon champion. Le Grand-Bornand is a thriving agricultural centre but nonetheless a major winter sports resort, with 90 kilometres of alpine ski runs, 60 for cross country skiing, and 45 snowshoe trails. In the summer, its high-mountain pastures are home to hikers and gliders.
The resort organises numerous events including, notably, regular hosting of the Tour de France and the International Festival Au Bonheur des Mômes for young audiences, whose 18th edition will take place from the 23rd to the 28th of August.
Le Grand-Bornand is also part of the Annecy Olympic project - Annecy is France’s candidate city to host the Winter Olympic Games in 2018 - and will host the biathlon competitions on its slopes.
