In this guide
Looking back at 2026: two finishes at Alpe d'Huez
The 2026 Tour delivered something never seen before: two consecutive finishes at Alpe d'Huez on the last two mountain stages. The first returned to the classic 21 hairpins; the second came in via the Col de Sarenne after a stage through the high Alps.
Friday 24 July 2026
Stage 19: Gap → Alpe d'Huez — won by Tadej Pogačar
127.9 km · mountain stage · around 3,500 m of climbing.
The route took in the Col Bayard, the Col du Noyer and the Col d'Ornon before the final climb up the 21 hairpins, where Tadej Pogačar won ahead of Lenny Martinez.
Saturday 25 July 2026
Stage 20: Le Bourg-d'Oisans → Alpe d'Huez — won by Richard Carapaz
170.9 km · major mountain stage · over 5,400 m of climbing.
After the Croix-de-Fer, the Télégraphe and the Galibier, the riders reached Alpe d'Huez via the Col de Sarenne, where Richard Carapaz took the stage win.
Why is Alpe d'Huez so legendary?
In 1952, Alpe d'Huez hosted the very first summit finish in Tour de France history. Fausto Coppi won solo. After a long absence, the climb returned in 1976 and gradually became one of the most iconic places in the race.
The 21 hairpins, the crowds packed along the road, the flags from around the world and the sometimes decisive gaps between the favourites have turned the climb into a true open-air stadium. The resort was a stage town for the 32nd time in 2026.
Where to watch the Tour
To see riders at full effort
The first hairpins are very steep. Riders arrive at speed after the approach from Bourg-d'Oisans, but the gradient soon opens up gaps. Getting there on foot is demanding.
For a village setting and facilities
The section through La Garde has a different atmosphere and some practical facilities. Check the exact restrictions in advance.
For the biggest party atmosphere
Dutch Corner is famous for its sea of orange and its electric atmosphere. It gets extremely crowded and isn't ideal for young children or anyone looking for somewhere calm.
For the views
Higher up, the views over the hairpins are spectacular. The crowds are still big, but some sections give you more space to photograph the race.
To see the riders up close
Speeds can pick up on the less steep sections. Barriers and restricted areas limit the available spots.
For the podium and the giant screen
This is the most controlled area and often the busiest. Access may be filtered and some zones require accreditation.
Which spot suits you?
| Profile | Recommended spot | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| Family with children | The resort or an easily accessible section | Avoid the densest crowds |
| Photographer | A hairpin with a view looking down | Arrive very early and respect the safety zones |
| Atmosphere seeker | Bend 7 or a lively section | Noise, crowds and possible heavy drinking |
| Cyclist | The middle bends | Cut-off time for riding up and a late return |
| Reduced mobility | An accessible area in the resort | Contact the organisers in advance |
Access, parking and road closures
For Alpe d'Huez stages, road access is heavily restricted. On finish days, the 21 hairpins road is usually closed to all vehicles except authorised users with the appropriate passes. Exact times vary by stage and are set by official decree.
The official plans detail closures on the D211 and D1091, access to Bourg-d'Oisans, shuttles, lifts and temporary car parks. Check these documents a few days before the event and once more the day before.
Lifts and shuttles
Lift access may be available from the valley or from the linked resorts. The Eau d'Olle Express is usually one way to reach the ski area without using the Alpe d'Huez road. However, check the specific Tour arrangements: times, capacity, tickets and any interruptions.
How to plan your day as a spectator
The day before
- Check the official decrees and traffic plan.
- Work out how you'll get there and back.
- Charge your phones and power banks.
- Pack water, food, clothing and sun protection.
- Download maps and timetables for offline use.
In the morning
Set off very early. The best spots fill up hours before the publicity caravan. Once you're in place, don't cross the road as the race approaches, and follow the marshals' instructions.
While you wait
Stay hydrated, protect yourself from the sun and take your rubbish home. At altitude the weather can change fast: heat, rain, wind and a drop in temperature can follow one another.
After the finish
Don't try to leave straight away. The roads stay closed and thousands of people are on the move at the same time. Plan for a meal, a wait and possibly a journey home after dark.
Watching the Tour with children
It can be an unforgettable day, but the wait is long and the crowds are overwhelming. Choose a spot with a clear way out, stay away from the rowdiest sections and write a phone number on a wristband or a card in your child's pocket.
- Cap, sunglasses and sun cream.
- A warm, waterproof layer.
- Plenty of water, food and snacks.
- Ear protection for the youngest.
- Quiet games to pass the time.
- An agreed meeting point in case you get separated.
Campervans, tents and setting up on the bends
The rules are tightened during the Tour. Parking may be banned several days before the stage, some natural areas are protected and fires are prohibited. Don't rely on what you saw at previous editions: check the current year's decrees.
Map of the 21 hairpins (for guidance)
Official sources