Pra Loup and the Tour de France
The Tour de France at Pra LoUPA story of emotions and summits
Did you know that Pra Loup has hosted a finish of the mythical Tour de France three times ? Nestled in the heart of the Ubaye valley, between grandiose peaks and alpine forests, Pra Loup is not only a ski resort: it is also a must-see spot for cycling enthusiasts.
1975 A mythical stage that becomes a legend
On July 13, 1975, history was made in Pra Loup. The Frenchman Bernard Thévenet created a surprise by beating the immense Eddy Merckx, who had been untouchable until then. A mythical stage, engraved in everyone’s memories. This victory marks the beginning of a new chapter for French cycling. The emotion was immense in the valley, and even today, the elders talk about it with stars in their eyes. And so do the Belgians!
1980 A Belgian rider wins in Pra Loup
Five years later, in 1980, Pra Loup once again hosted an altitude stage. This time, it was the Belgian Joseph Deschoenmaecker who won at the top, at the end of a demanding climb from the Ubaye valley.
Further proof that Pra Loup is an ideal playground for the great battles of the Tour.
2015 Simon Geschke tames the climb of Pra Loup
In 2015, the Tour returned to the valley, and it was the German Simon Geschke who won the stage after a heroic breakaway.
The arrival at Pra Loup 1600 m is marked by breathtaking landscapes and an unforgettable atmosphere.
2024 The Tour de France passes through Ubaye again
In 2024, the Grande Boucle did not stop at the resort, but it crossed our beautiful valley again. The peloton crossed Uvernet-Fours, at the foot of the Maure, before reaching Barcelonnette for a spectacular finish in the heart of the city.
A beautiful spotlight on our territory and its exceptional landscapes.
Want to ride in the footsteps of the Tour de France?
Discover our cycling routes, our accommodation adapted to cyclists, and our tailor-made services for a 100% cycling holiday in the mountains.
Pra Loup 1500mAn arch in tribute to the Tour de France in Molanès
To celebrate this strong link between Pra Loup and the Tour de France, a commemorative arch has been installed in Molanes – Pra Loup 1500 m.
This monument pays tribute to the highlights experienced here, and reminds all visitors that Pra Loup is a land of champions, passion and challenges.
Pra Loup, a resort made for cyclists
With its high-altitude roads, its mythical passes (Col d’Allos , Col de la Cayolle, Col de Vars…) and its sublime landscapes, Pra Loup is an ideal base camp for all cyclists, whether you are an amateur or an experienced cyclist.
Whether you want to relive the stages of the Tour or simply pedal in the middle of the peaks, you’ve definitely come to the right place!
