Stage 13 Route and Profile: Dole to Belfort, 205.8 km

Overview of Stage 13: Dole to Belfort

Stage 13 of the 2026 Tour de France is set to take place on Friday, July 17. The stage will cover a distance of 205.8 kilometers, starting in Dole and finishing in Belfort. The peloton will begin their journey at 1:20 p.m., with the expected finish time around 5:59 p.m. This stage stands out as the only one in the entire 2026 edition that exceeds 200 kilometers, making it a significant challenge for the riders.

The route will head eastward, offering a unique opportunity for breakaway riders due to the tough terrain. After passing through Mélisey, which is Thibaut Pinot’s hometown, the race will reach the Ballon d’Alsace. The final stretch will involve a descent toward Belfort, where the stage will conclude.

Route Analysis by Romain Grégoire

Romain Grégoire, a local expert from Groupama-FDJ United, has provided an in-depth analysis of the route. He notes that this stage is particularly special because of a climb that occurs late in the race. However, the finish line is located at the bottom of the course, and with a relatively flat start, it’s likely that a winning breakaway will emerge.

Grégoire explains that there won’t be many difficulties in the first 70 kilometers, although the roads may be winding between Éclans and Orchamps, especially around kilometers 53 and 71. After covering 148 kilometers, the breakaway group will likely be eliminated, leading to a second phase of the race focused on securing the stage win.

The Col des Croix will be a key point in the stage, followed by the ascent of the Ballon d’Alsace. This climb is described as steady, with a consistent gradient of 6–7% and some switchbacks. There will be a short kilometer of downhill before the descent toward Belfort. The finish could potentially lead to a small sprint among four or five riders, unless climbers manage to make a difference.

Must-Do Stops Along the Way

For those following the race, Grégoire recommends visiting Saint-Vit, his mother’s village. He describes it as an ideal spot for enjoying a coffee by the roadside, offering a glimpse into the local culture and charm of the region.

Additional Information

For more details about the 2026 Tour de France, readers can refer to Vélo Magazine, which is currently available on newsstands and in its digital version. The magazine provides a comprehensive overview of the entire event, including detailed profiles of each stage.

Key Details About Stage 13

• Route: Dole to Belfort
• Distance: 205.8 km
• Start Time (Dole): 1:20 p.m.
• Finish Time (Belfort): 5:59 p.m.
• Caravan Start Time (Dole): 10:35 a.m.
• Estimated Caravan Arrival Time (Belfort): 4:38 p.m.

This stage promises to be a thrilling addition to the 2026 Tour de France, combining challenging climbs, scenic routes, and opportunities for breakaways. Fans and spectators will have plenty to look forward to as the race makes its way through the beautiful landscapes of eastern France.