On 26 July 2025, Stage 20 of the Tour de France will see cyclists tackle a 184.2-kilometre hilly route from Nantua to Pontarlier, a stage ripe for breakaway specialists seeking glory in the Jura mountains. With four categorised climbs, including the lengthy Col de la Croix de la Serra and the sharp Côte de Thésy, the parcours offers just enough challenge to tempt adventurous riders while keeping the general classification contenders on guard. The final seven kilometres into Pontarlier are flat, opening the door for a reduced sprint or a solo escapee to steal the day. This penultimate stage, weaving through the scenic Jura region, provides a final opportunity for non-climbers to shine before the traditional Paris finale.
The stage begins in Nantua, a small town in the Ain department, known for its serene lake and surrounding forested hills, offering a tranquil start for the peloton. From there, the riders pass through Oyonnax, an industrial hub with a proud history of craftsmanship, its modern streets contrasting with the nearby Jura peaks.
The route continues to Saint-Claude, a historic town set in a deep valley, famed for its pipe-making tradition and the imposing Cathedral of Saint-Pierre. As the peloton navigates the rolling terrain, they reach Les Rousses, a lively ski resort close to the Swiss border, its high-altitude setting adding a touch of Alpine air to the day’s racing. The stage concludes in Pontarlier, a bustling town known for its absinthe heritage and gateway to the Jura’s outdoor pursuits, where the flat finish line awaits a potential sprint or a breakaway hero.
This stage, with its mix of climbs and open roads, offers a classic Tour de France experience, showcasing the understated beauty of the Jura and the tactical nous of riders chasing a hard-earned victory.
