Stage 18 of the 2026 Tour de France: Voiron, gateway to the Alps, to Orcières-Merlette, summit in sight

A demanding mountain stage through the Chartreuse and Dévoluy massifs, featuring legendary climbs and breathtaking scenery.

Stage 18 of the 2026 Tour de France is a pure climber’s challenge. Starting from Voiron, a town famed for its walnuts, the riders will head towards the Alps on a rolling course before tackling the first serious ascents. The profile is unforgiving: after a gradual climb to the Col de la Croix-Haute, the stage continues with the Col du Noyer, culminating in a spectacular finish at Orcières-Merlette, a resort perched at 1,800 metres. A thrilling finale for mountain purists.

Col de la Croix-Haute

This iconic climb, often used in the Tour, offers stunning views over the Chartreuse and Vercors massifs. Stop at the summit car park to take in the panorama, especially on clear days.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping Belle Roche Campsite ★ 4.6 3-star campsite with pool, clean facilities. Sleep in the valley and watch the riders pass 42 minutes away on foot. › Parking by quiet road Glandage Parking ★ 4.8 Free parking, 1-2 flat spaces. Absolute peace, riders 8 minutes away by car. › Shaded roadside parking Saint-Maurice-en-Trièves Parking ★ 4.4 Secluded spot with clear views over the Trièves. 6-minute drive, ideal for vans. › Roadside parking in Saint-Maurice-en-Trièves Parking ★ 3.3 Parking with bakery and terrace. Amenities nearby, riders visible 6 minutes away by car. › Lus-la-Croix-Haute Parking ★ 2.7 High-altitude parking with mountain views. Sleep near the climb, riders 5 minutes away on foot. ›

Village of Mens

Tucked away in the heart of the Trièves, this medieval village with its narrow streets and stone houses is a hidden gem. Take time to wander the market square and sample local specialities like ravioles.

Where to sleep nearby

Larch parking with tables in Saint-Michel-de-Chaillol Parking ★ 4.9 Sleep at altitude with stunning views. 14 minutes from Mens, guaranteed rider sightings. › Camping Les Pins Campsite ★ 5 5-star shaded campsite, lake 5 minutes away. 19 minutes from Mens, spacious flat pitches. › Parking with Gapençais view Ancelle Parking ★ 4.8 Panoramic mountain parking. 15 minutes from Mens, compost toilets on site. › Viewpoint overlooking Embrun Embrun Parking ★ 4.8 Viewpoint over Lake Serre-Ponçon. 19 minutes from Mens, drinking water and tables. › Le Domaine des Ecrins accueil camping car 22€ Campsite ★ 5 Campervan pitch €22, full services. 21 minutes from Mens, at the foot of the Écrins. ›

Col du Noyer

Less busy than its neighbours, this climb is a treasure for lovers of wild landscapes. The winding road and surrounding cliffs make it an unforgettable photo spot.

Where to sleep nearby

Col du Noyer parking Le Noyer Parking ★ 4.7 Sleep right at the climb, compost toilets on site. Watch the riders pass at 0 metres, free. › Camping Le Champ des Cimes Campsite ★ 5 5-star grass campsite, 360-degree Alpine views. 5 km from the climb, €15 per night. › Notre-Dame parking La Fare-en-Champsaur Parking ★ 4.4 Forest parking near a chapel, 6 km from the climb. Peaceful with views of the Écrins. › Camping Les Auches Campsite ★ 3.9 Municipal campsite under pine trees, resort atmosphere. 38-minute walk to the climb, full facilities. › Greenery rabbit warren parking Le Dévoluy Parking ★ 4 Discreet parking on the edge of nature, 4 km from the climb. Flat ground, out of sight of the road. ›

Orcières-Merlette

A winter and summer resort, Orcières-Merlette overlooks the Champsaur valley with its slopes and high-altitude lakes. The stage finish will be at the heart of the resort, the perfect setting to soak up the Tour’s atmosphere.

Where to sleep nearby

Parking with Gapençais view Ancelle Parking ★ 4.8 Free parking with 360-degree mountain views. Sleep here to see the riders pass 15 minutes away. › Camping Les Pins Campsite ★ 5 5-star quiet campsite, shaded and near the lake. 19-minute drive to the stage. › Viewpoint overlooking Embrun Embrun Parking ★ 4.8 Lake viewpoint with tables and drinking water. 17 km to watch the race. › Larch parking with tables in Saint-Michel-de-Chaillol Parking ★ 4.9 Mountain spot with rustic amenities. 13 km from the route, natural setting. › Le Domaine des Ecrins accueil camping car 22€ Campsite ★ 5 Campervan pitch €22, full and spacious services. 19 km to follow the stage. ›

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