This will be a decidedly bumpy day, with 3,800 metres of ascent, and five categorised climbs, though never more than 6km of uphill in one go. We’ll warm up our legs with a gentle climb out of the Saône valley, through Beaujolais vineyards and forested valleys, before tackling the Col de la Croix Montmain and then swooping down into the Azergues valley.
For every up, there must be down and we’ll be rewarded with some spectacular (and not too technical) descents: cycling joy, TDF style! The second half of the day will take us through an enchanting landscape of winding lanes, wooded climbs and spectacular views, before we descend to Saint-Étienne, home of bike wheel manufacturer Mavic.
