The Tour de France is one of the biggest cycling competitions in the world. Among the legendary places that mark this race, Oisans occupies a special place. This Alpine territory, with its legendary passes and vertical landscapes, offers riders intense moments and attracts millions of enthusiasts in a festive atmosphere.
of the Tour de France
Oisans, land of challenges
Located in the French Alps, between Grenoble and Briançon, Oisans is full of challenges for cycling enthusiasts. Its winding roads, steep climbs and legendary passes make it a popular terrain for the Tour de France. Among the unmissable passages are:
The legendary passes of the Tour de France
Alpe d'Huez: Its 21 hairpin bends over 13,8 km, with an average gradient of 8,1%, are a challenge feared and appreciated by the riders. This climb is also associated with moments of incredible fervor. The spectators, from different nationalities, adopt “their” bend to support the cyclists. Some bends are even traditional gathering points, such as bend 7, often filled with Dutch fans.
Le Col du Lautaret : culminating at 2 m, its route is winding, long (057 km) and climbing (34,8 m of D+). Since its introduction into the Tour de France in 1379 (the same year as the Galibier), the Col du Lautaret has been used many times. It is often used as a gateway to the Galibier or other alpine climbs, making it a strategic point.
The Croix-de-Fer and Glandon : runners often have to cross the Croix de Fer and Glandon, other iconic passes of Oisans. This 29 km climb, first introduced in the Tour de France in 1947, is a formidable introduction. In 2015, Vincenzo Nibali launched a decisive attack here, proving that these passes could play a key role in Alpine stages.
The history of cycling
Oisans & Tour de France
Since its first appearance on the route in 1911, the roads of Oisans have become essential parts of the Tour de France. These stages are marked by sporting exploits, twists and turns, and a unique atmosphere brought by spectators from all four corners of the world.
When Alpe d'Huez was introduced into the Tour de France in 1952, this stage became one of the first finishes broadcast on television. Fausto Coppi's victory that day helped to popularize not only this climb, but also the Tour de France to a wider audience, making Alpe d'Huez a legendary place.
The 1986 stage between Grenoble and Alpe d'Huez is marked by the alliance between two teammates, Bernard Hinault and Greg LeMond. Rivals for the final victory, they nevertheless crossed the finish line hand in hand. One image remained etched in memories.
In 1996,, during the stage passing through the Galibier and Lautaret passes, a snowstorm transformed the course into an even more extreme challenge, forcing the organizers to adapt the race.
In 1997,, Marco Pantani sets the Alpe d'Huez climb record in just 37 minutes and 35 seconds, still unbeaten today. This time remains a reference in the history of cycling.
A party for everyone in Oisans
Tour de France
The Tour de France in Oisans is not just a sporting competition, it is also a popular celebration. The towns, such as Bourg-d'Oisans or Alpe d'Huez, are transformed into the epicentre of events offering: concerts, activities for the whole family, tastings of local products, etc.
The Tour de France in Oisans is a unique experience, a mix of performance, magnificent landscapes and moments of sharing. Whether you are passionate about cycling or wide open spaces, Oisans promises you unforgettable memories. So, prepare your visit and come and experience the excitement of the Tour in one of the most beautiful regions of the Alps!
Would you like to know if the Tour de France is passing through Oisans this year?
Then check out the organizer's website.
FAQ
Everything you need to know about the Tour de France in Oisans
What makes Alpe d'Huez famous in the Tour?
Alpe d'Huez is famous for its 21 numbered laces, each bearing the name of a former stage winner. These hairpin bends, spread over a 13,8 km climb with an average gradient of 8,1%, offer an impressive visual spectacle and a formidable challenge for cyclists. The combination of the steep gradient, the often intense heat in summer and the altitude (summit at 1 m) makes this climb extremely demanding physically and mentally. It is also known for favoring explosive climbers capable of imposing themselves on this type of short but intense climb.
His legend began in 1952, when this climb was first included in the Tour de France, coinciding with the first television broadcast of the competition. Thousands of viewers were able to witness Fausto Coppi's victory on this formidable summit, marking the beginning of his myth. Since then, Alpe d'Huez has often been the scene of decisive moments in the Tour, where the favourites fight for the yellow jersey or the stage.
The climb of Alpe d'Huez is also a incredible atmosphere with enthusiasts camping several days in advance, transforming the climb into a real cycling festival. The massive, sometimes compact crowds create a special atmosphere where the riders move in a human corridor.
What is the Alpe d'Huez climb record?
The record is 37 minutes and 35 seconds, set by Marco Pantani in 1997.
What are the other famous passes in Oisans, used by the Tour de France riders?
Le CIron Cross, the Col of the Glandon, Col du Lautaret et le Col of Sarenne are among the passes often used by the Tour de France.
What activities are planned during the Tour?
The localities, as Bourg-d'Oisans, Alpe d'Huez or Allemond, organize festive activities for spectators during the stage.
Why is Alpe d'Huez so popular with spectators?
BecauseThe atmosphere is exceptional with massive crowds. from all over the world, including supporters in orange uniforms at turn 7, en tribute to Dutch victories.
How many spectators follow the Tour in Oisans?
Around 15 million spectators follow the Tour along its entire route, with massive concentrations in stages such as those in Oisan.s.
What challenges does Oisans offer to cyclists?
The Oisans stages feature long climbs and steep slopes, sometimes totaling more than 5 m of positive elevation gain.f on the step.
What are the best places to watch the Tour de France in Oisans?
Le pass of the Glandon and Iclimbed towards theAlpe d'Huez are privileged spots, offering spectacular views and an atmosphere festive.
