From the Roman arenas in Nimes that are considered as the most well preserved in the world to the medieval city of Carcassonne part of the UNESCO world heritage, this stage will follow the course of history. A sprint seems certain but apparently a finish by the Carcassonne towers has never finished with a bunch sprint before, so we could see a successful breakaway today.

Izoard finish line hospitality

The Tour de France sets up a limited number of areas located on course within the final portion of the stage. These have names like Tourmalet, Izoard and Galibier. Access to these areas is reserved and by invitation only. You will see famous ex-cyclists, sponsors and team guests. Typically these areas are within 200 metres or so of the finish line. There is also a spectator friendly elevated viewing area. You will be served with drinks and snacks and there is a big screen to watch the LIVE action as it unfolds. After watching the finish, you will celebrate the victory with Champagne.

You can also watch the video so you know what to expect. What to expect from Tour de France hospitality – watch the video here

Provisional timings (may change once final logistics are confirmed)

14:30 – Opening of the Tour de France Izoard Area
15:45 – Publicity Caravan passes the Izoard area
17:35 – Estimated finish time for stage winner
18:15 – Izoard Area closes

After the start in Carcassonne today’s stage is fairly easy up to Lavelanet. After this the hills come thick and fast. Montségur is the citadel of vertigo and rough climbs. After this follows the Col de la Croix des Morts and Col de Saint-Louis via the spectacular Viaduc de l’Escargot. The climbers will be excited for this one.

Today you have access to the Village Depart/ official start village. Here you’ll see the riders arrive and warm up in the rider’s paddock next to the team bus and sign on for the stage.

Village Depart

The 2021 Tour de France entourage and organisation travel around with the riders. The team buses park within an enclosed and restricted area. An expo type village is created at the start of each one of the stages. It is usually here that everyone who is linked in any way to the Tour de France like TV, sponsors and celebrities from the cycling world will show themselves. Also local companies will be keen to show off their wares. Your VIP passes will give you access to the village and the rider’s paddock.

Provisional programme (will be different on each stage)

10:00 – Opening of the Tour de France Village
11:05 – Departure of the Caravan and arrival of the riders in the Teams car park
12:00 – Beginning of the presentation of the riders on the signature podium
13:05 – The stage starts
13:10 – Closing of the Tour de France Village

Provence leisure cycling holidays

Nimes and its surrounding region is beautiful. Before or after joining us for the Tour de France, why not take a tour and discover this region by bike? Accommodation, maps, route guides, bike hire and luggage transfers. Optional extras such as half board and E-bikes are available as well. Click here for more information.