Broadly, the route seems to focus on the south of France with the exception of a trip to the Vosges and obviously the final stage in Paris. From Barcelona, it’s straight to the Pyrenees, up to the Dordogne, across through the Massif Central, up to the Vosges and back down to the Alps for the final few stages before Paris. Fun!

Pyrenees so soon!

The pros will have their own take on whether it’s good or bad to go from the first couple of Spanish stages straight into the mountains (with summit finishes expected on stages 3 and 4 ,and/or 5). The lesser visited east of the Pyrenees will see stage 3 and stunning views of the Mediterranean as we cross the border into France. Then a possible stage in the east of the Pyrenees and another as good as confirmed to finish at the bottom of the Cirque de Gavarnie; a first for the Tour and as such a real treat. It’s a well known area for hikers and for good reason with spectacular rock formations and a real “off the beaten track” feel.

Sunshine…

After the early mountains it looks like we’re heading for the sunshine; probably via Bordeaux (flat and hot) to the Dordogne (less flat, still hot!) for gorges, beautiful villages and a great way to transition to some more hills…

The Massif Central

It’s almost sure there’ll be a couple of stages based in the centre of France, far from the crowds so that we can enjoy the incredible scenery and gorgeous cycling that holidays don’t often go to. We’ve heard rumours of a stage finish in Le Lioran and definitely the opportunity to cycle over at least one “Puy”; France’s green volcanic landscape.

The Vosges are back!

The rumours are less concrete here but the Planche des Belles Filles must have a look-in alongside the main towns of Epinal and Belfort. The amount of time we spend in the Vosges will influence how mountainous this Tour feels and whether there’s any respite before we hit the Alps or whether the climbs just keep on coming!

An Alpine finale…

The 2026 biggy seems likely to be the Alpe d’Huez so we can expect a fun, classic-feeling queen stage. That may be followed by a trip deeper into the Alps to Barcelonette or Orcieres or possibly just a bit further south to Gap. A few more mayors will need to blab before the rumour mills give us more solid information and where the Alps are concerned, the detail is everything because stage distances, numbers of climbs and total elevation can obviously make all the difference.

We’ll keep an eye on things and blog again in a week or so when there’s a bit more to add. The good news is that there isn’t much longer to wait… the 23^rd October is our Christmas and it’ll come round in no time.