The Critérium du Dauphiné 2024 route, one of the main preparatory races for the Tour de France, promises great challenges for cyclists, which will take place from June 2nd to 9th and will be the last major test before the Tour de France.
The competition will start with a relatively flat stage, starting and ending in Saint-Pourçain-sur-Sioule. Despite having three categorized climbs and more than 2,000 meters of altitude, the last 100 km do not present any major obstacles, offering one of the few opportunities for sprinters.
Mountain stage on the second day
The second day of the race will represent a considerable challenge for climbers. The final part will feature an intense sequence of climbs, starting with the Côte de Saint-Georges-en-Couzan (7 km at 5.8%), followed by the Col de la Croix Ladret (3.1 km at 6.1% ) and culminating in the Col de la Loge, where the finish line will be situated.
The third stage will maintain the challenging tone with more mountains. Although it does not include the highest and most difficult climbs, the stage will feature almost 3,000 meters of climbing, with one 2nd category and two 3rd category climbs. Cyclists will finish the stage on the second third-category climb to Les Estables.
Individual time trial promises excitement in the fourth stage
The fourth stage will mark a change of pace with a 34.4km individual time trial. The race will start in Saint German Laval and end in Neulise.
There will be one last chance for the sprinters in the fifth stage to Saint-Priest, although a breakaway could triumph in this stage.
Exciting finale awaits cyclists
Stages six, seven and eight will be dominated by climbers. The sixth stage will feature the heavy climb of Le Collet d’Allevard (11.1 km at 8.1%) as the main challenge.
The seventh stage will feature four important climbs, culminating in a 10 km climb to the Samoëns 1600 ski resort.
And finally, the organization has a big surprise in store for the eighth and final stage. Cyclists will face the Col de la Forclaz de Montmin(7.1 km at 7.3%), Mont Saliève(12.1 km at 6.8%) and the final climb to the Plateau des Glières (9.4 km at 7.1%). At the end, the route involves another two kilometers on a gravel surface after the final climb.
Watch the video of the race route