Stage 6 of the 2026 Tour de France: Pau to Gavarnie-Gèdre, the climb to the summits

A spectacular mountain stage through the Pyrenees, featuring legendary climbs and breathtaking scenery.

Stage 6 of the 2026 Tour de France connects Pau to Gavarnie-Gèdre on a high-mountain route that is both demanding and grand. Expect vertiginous climbs, technical descents and 360-degree panoramas over the Pyrenean peaks. A challenge for the riders, an adventure for the spectators.

Col du Tourmalet

The giant of the Pyrenees, often decisive in the Tour, stands at 2,115 metres. To see it up close, set up by the roadside a few hours before the riders pass, camera and sturdy shoes at the ready.

Where to sleep nearby

Shepherd’s hut parking Col du Tourmalet Barèges Parking ★ 4.7 Sleep 9 minutes from the col, with unbeatable views of the Pyrenees. Free, authentic shepherd’s hut atmosphere. › Camping à la ferme — Bagnères-de-Bigorre Campsite ★ 4.9 Farm campsite (5-minute walk), permission required. Stunning scenery. › Ski station parking Barèges Parking ★ 4.4 Large flat car park at 1,600 m, hiking trail start. Quiet night, views of Pic du Midi. › Camping Caravaning Municipal Campsite ★ 4.1 Municipal campsite by the lake (6-minute drive), toilet facilities. Low prices, mountain setting. › Flat parking space by stream Barèges Parking ★ 4.8 Flat area near the stream, views of Tourmalet. Free, 14-minute walk from the col. ›

Cirque de Gavarnie

A UNESCO World Heritage site, this natural amphitheatre offers an unrivalled view of mainland France’s highest waterfall. Access it on foot from Gavarnie-Gèdre for a full immersion in this stark, dramatic landscape.

Where to sleep nearby

D923, Gavarnie Motorhome area ★ 4 Sleep 5 minutes by car from the cirque, €10 per night. Perfect for watching the riders pass, quiet gravel area. › Camping Bergerie Campsite ★ 3.9 Family campsite at the foot of the cirque, booking essential. 43-minute walk to see the stage, riverside setting. › Parking above the road Gavarnie-Gèdre Parking ★ 4.9 Free car park 6 minutes by car, spectacular views. Ideal for a wild night and following the race. › Cirque de Gavarnie parking Gavarnie Parking ★ 4.3 Village car park 49 minutes on foot, €7-10 per 24 hours. Close to the start, toilets and playground. › Lift parking spot Gavarnie-Gèdre Parking ★ 5 Free panoramic spot, 49 minutes on foot. Exceptional valley views, perfect for the race. ›

Luz-Saint-Sauveur

This charming Pyrenean village, nestled in the heart of the valleys, is a strategic waypoint for the riders. Take the chance to wander its streets and sample a local speciality like garbure.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping Bergons Campsite ★ 4.9 Sleep in peace 4 minutes from the route, rated 4.9. Watch the riders pass right by this well-reviewed family campsite. › Bédéret area parking Grust Parking ★ 4.7 Free at altitude, 6 minutes by car. Clear mountain views and riders passing below. › Camping-car parking by the river Luz-Saint-Sauveur Parking ★ 4.3 Free in the town centre, 5 minutes on foot. Near the river and the route for a wake-up call to the sound of pedals. › Artigues, Grust Motorhome area ★ 4.3 Paid but pure nature, 6 minutes by car. Exceptional panorama and riders just 200 m from your pitch. › Camping le Bastan Esterre Campsite ★ 4.7 4.7-star campsite, 7 minutes on foot. Riverside and pool for a relaxing break before the stage. ›

Col d’Aubisque

Another legendary Tour climb, famed for its tight hairpins and jaw-dropping scenery. To admire it without the crowds, arrive early in the morning or pick a high vantage point, such as the car park at the summit.

Where to sleep nearby

Aubisque Pass parking Béost Parking ★ 4.2 Dormitory at 1,884 m with 360-degree Pyrenean views, 0 minutes from the col. Free and right in the thick of the action on race day. › Pasture parking Béost Parking ★ 5 Grassy clearing for 3-4 vans, 5 minutes from the col. Spectacular views and guaranteed peace for the night. › Eaux-Bonnes Casino parking Parking ★ 4.2 Flat car park by the casino, 5 minutes by car. Water and toilets available, thermal spa atmosphere. › Camping Iscoo Campsite ★ 3.7 Grassy natural campsite at altitude, 43 minutes on foot. Absolute quiet and mountain views for a perfect morning. › Summer parking near waterfall Eaux-Bonnes Parking ★ 4.6 Large car park at the cable car base, 20 minutes on foot. Waterfall nearby, fully self-sufficient and free. ›

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