2022 Tour de France Route and Predictions

The Tour de France is one of the most prestigious bicycle races in the world. The race is held annually in July and covers approximately 3,500 kilometers (2,200 miles) throughout France and sometimes into neighboring countries. The route for the race changes each year but usually includes several mountain stages, flat stages suitable for sprinters, and time trials. The Tour de France is a grueling race, and riders often complain about the difficulty of the course. Riders also sometimes complain about the weather, which can be hot and humid during the summer months. There are a number of reasons why professional cyclists like the Tour de France. The race is one of the most prestigious tournaments in all of cycling, and it provides riders with an opportunity to test themselves against some of the best competition in the world. Additionally, the race's course changes every year, which keeps things interesting for both riders and fans alike. Finally, the large prize purse available at the race (which is traditionally spread across the team) means that there is a lot on the line for those who compete, and winning can lead to increased fame and fortune.

A standard sight on the tour, as the peloton twists around a serpentine bend.

Route Preview

This year is an interesting one because the grand departure is an individual time trial taking place in Denmark, where riders will remain for the first three stages followed by a transfer day. The fourth stage is a treat for English riders, as the route begins in Dunkirk and passes through some popular ferry ports before ending in Calais. Cobbles make a return in stage five, and finally, the rest of the routes are mostly mountainous. This year is a tour of the eastern side of France. The entire route is 3328km in length. The most elevation gained occurs on stage 11 at 2646m on the Col du Galibier, which peaks around 2646m.

More information, larger maps, and downloadable route maps can be found on the official tour website.

The full official 2022 TDF route guide, although subject to change by race organizers.

Stage 1: Friday, July 1 – Copenhagen, Individual Time Trial, 13km

The 2022 Tour de France stage 1 will be a flat, fast time trial through the streets of Copenhagen. The route will take riders past some of the city's most iconic landmarks, including The Little Mermaid and Amalienborg Palace. This stage is perfect for specialists who can make the most of their speed and power to put in a strong performance. However, some GC contenders will need to be careful not to lose too much time on this relatively short stage.

Stage 2: Saturday, July 2 – Roskilde to Nyborg, 199km

The second stage of the 2022 Tour de France will take riders from Roskilde to Nyborg, a mostly flat route that is nonetheless challenging due to the possibility of crosswinds. GC contenders could lose precious seconds if they are caught out by the winds, while other riders may use the opportunity to gain an advantage. The stage will also feature three Category 4 climbs and 50km of scenic coastline riding along the coast.

Stage 3: Sunday, July 3 – Velje to Sønderborg, 182km

The 2022 Tour de France stage 3 will see the riders take on a flat course through Vejle and Sønderborg. The stage is likely to end in a bunch sprint, with three categorized climbs along the way. The first climb is Koldingvej (1.4km, 4.4%), just 27km into the stage. The second climb is at the 83km mark with Hejlsminde Strand (850m, 4.7%). It's followed by an intermediate sprint near Christiansfeld before the final climb of Genner Strand (1.6km, 3.3%). From here, it's a relatively straightforward run-in to Sønderborg where the stage should finish in a bunch sprint. Transfer day: Monday, July 4 Since the tour starts in Copenhagen, there is a transfer day written into the schedule that allows teams to transfer to the next area, Dunkirk.

Stage 4: Tuesday, July 5 – Dunkirk to Calais, 172km

This stage of the tour will take place entirely in northern France, with riders starting in Dunkirk and finishing in Calais. The route is hilly, with several challenging climbs, but the scenery along the way is sure to be beautiful. Fans based in England will have easy access to this stage via the two ferry ports.

Stage 5: Wednesday, July 6 – Lille to Wallers Arenberg Porte du Hainaut, 155km

There's nothing quite like the Tour de France, and stage 5 is always one of the most anticipated stages. This year, the race will take place on July 6th, and it promises to be another exciting day of racing. The route will take riders through some of France's most beautiful countryside, including 11 sectors of cobbled roads. It's sure to be a challenging stage, but one that any fan of the sport won't want to miss. Stage 6: Thursday, July 7 – Binche to Longwy, 220km

This stage will be one for the climbers, with two category 3 climbs and a stage 4 climb. The first climb is the Côte de Puiventeux, which is 800m long with an average gradient of 12.3%. This will be followed by a sprint section before the final climb up to Longwy. Sagan will be looking to repeat his 2017 victory on this stage.

Stage 7: Friday, July 8 – Tomblaine to La Super Planche des Belles Filles, 176km

The stage will start in Tomblaine and end at La Super Planche des Belles Filles. The stage is 176 kilometers long and includes several mountain points. This will be a difficult stage for the riders, but it should be an exciting one to watch.

Stage 8: Saturday, July 9 – Dole to Lausanne, 186km

Stage seven of the Tour de France will take riders from Sallanches to La Roche-sur-Foron, covering 186 kilometers. The route features four categorized climbs, including the first category Col des Aravis just 12 kilometers from the finish line. This stage could be one for the GC contenders as they look to gain time on their rivals before heading into the mountains in Stage 8.

Stage 9: Sunday, July 10 – Aigle to Les Chatel Portes du Soleil, 183km

The 9th stage of the 2022 Tour de France will be a 183km route from Aigle to Les Chatel. The stage will feature several climbs, including the Col du Corbier and the Portes du Soleil. This will be a difficult stage for the riders, but one that could see some interesting battles between the GC contenders.

Rest day: Monday, July 11 – Morzine

Morzine is a town and commune in the Haute-Savoie department in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of south-eastern France. The town is a popular tourist destination due to its location in the French Alps. Morzine has been twinned with Coventry, UK since 1991.

Stage 10: Tuesday, July 12 – Morzine to Megeve, 148km

Riders will head to the familiar towns of Morzine and Megeve. The final climb up to the Altiport de Megève will be a tough one, but it's one that both towns are used to. There is also a section of the route that takes riders into Switzerland. This stage should be a good one for the GC contenders.

Stage 11: Wednesday, July 13 – Albertville to Col du Granon, 149km

Another mountain stage and a great opportunity for the GC contenders to show their skills. The Col du Télégraphe, Col du Galibier and Col du Granon are all tough climbs that will test the riders. This stage will be a great chance for someone to take an early lead in the race.

Stage 12: Thursday, July 14 Bastille Day - Briancon to Alpe d'Huez, 166km

The 2022 Tour de France's stage 12 will be a repeat of the 1986 Alpe d'Huez stage. The first town on the route is St-Jean-de-Maurienne, located in southeastern France near the Italian border. Next up is Col du Télégraphe (11km at 7%), followed by Col du Galibier (25km at 6%). From there, it's a long descent into Valloire before beginning the final ascent to Alpe d'Huez. This will be an extremely difficult stage, testing even the strongest cyclists out there.

Stage 13: Friday, July 15 – Bourg d'Oisans to Saint-Etienne, 193km

This is a relatively flat stage, so it should be good for sprinters looking to add to their points totals in the battle for the green jersey. These two towns are both located in southeastern France and are known for their history and culture. Saint-Etienne, in particular, is known as a hub of art and design.

Stage 14: Saturday, July 16 – Saint-Etienne to Mende, 195km

This stage is relatively short at just 195 kilometers, but it features a number of challenging hills that will make it difficult for the peloton. The town of Saint-Etienne is located in eastern France and is known for its manufacturing industry. The town of Mende is located in southern France and is known for its picturesque setting.

Stage 15: Sunday, July 17 – Rodez to Carcassonne, 200km

The sprint teams will be looking to take advantage of the flat stage 15 route from Rodez to Carcassonne. The 200km journey should provide ample opportunity for the likes of Cavendish, Kittel, and Greipel to add to their stage tally. Fans of those sprinters will remember Carcassonne as the site of Cav's 34th Tour stage win in 2021.

Rest day: Monday, July 18 – Carcassonne

The French town of Carcassonne is located in the south of France, about 60 kilometers from Toulouse. It is best known for its medieval fortress, which was built in the early 13th century and is one of the largest fortified castles in Europe. The castle includes a walled city with 52 towers, as well as a moat and drawbridge. Today, it is a popular tourist destination and has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Stage 16: Tuesday, July 19 – Carcassonne to Foix, 179km

This stage will be a hilly one, with two tough climbs to contend with. The first is the Port de Lers, which is 11.4 kilometers long and has a 7% gradient. The second is the Mur de Péguère, which is 9.3 kilometers long and has a 7.9% gradient. This stage will likely be won by a strong climber who can handle these difficult ascents well.

Stage 17: Wednesday, July 20 – Saint-Gaudens to Peyragudes, 130km