A cyclist climbs the hairpin bends of La Planche des Belles Filles, a legendary stage in the Tour de France - Vosges du Sud, Haute-SaôneA cyclist climbs the hairpin bends of La Planche des Belles Filles, a legendary stage in the Tour de France - Vosges du Sud, Haute-Saône
©Ascent of La Planche des Belles Filles|Alain Doire - BFC Tourisme

Like a climber of the Tour de France

If you like sporting challenges, then La Planche des Belles Filles is for you! Now a legendary climb in the Tour de France and a real challenge for cyclists, it offers a demanding ascent and spectacular panoramas. Get ready for an unforgettable experience!

Logo for the Vosges du Sud destination in Haute-Saône - Four-colour versionLogo for the Vosges du Sud destination in Haute-Saône - Four-colour version
©Vosges du Sud logo

In the footsteps of the runners of the Tour de France

The Planche des Belles Filles has earned itself a worldwide reputation thanks to the Tour de France. On six occasions – in 2012, 2014, 2017, 2019, 2020 and 2022 – this now iconic climb has been chosen as a stage finish, rivalling the greatest Alpine passes.

Other big names to have triumphed here include Tadej Pogačar, Vincenzo Nibali and Christopher Froome. Every year, this climb continues to captivate and inspire, adding new chapters to its already legendary history.

A challenge for experienced cyclists

The ascent of La Planche des Belles Filles is a real challenge, even for the most seasoned cyclists. At 5.9km long, with an average gradient of 8.5% and a positive difference in altitude of over 600m, this demanding climb leaves no one indifferent.

Starting from Plancher-les-Mines, the climb quickly puts you to the test with a 10% gradient, enough to sharpen up your calves! Then it’s on to a series of hairpin bends and straight sections before you reach the resort.

After the effort, comfort

If you climb all the way to the summit, at 1148m, take advantage of the exceptional views to catch your breath. On the way back, stop off at the resort’s restaurant for a well-earned break on the terrace, before tackling the descent.

One more effort with the Super Board

For those looking for even more difficulty, the Super Planche des Belles Filles adds a further kilometre with gravel-like slopes of over 20%.

Former racing cyclist Thibaut Pinot lives in the area, in Melisey, and has made this climb his favourite training ground.

Key figures
Le Tour

La Planche des Belles Filles has finished a stage of the Tour de France 6 times

It's going up!

On the ascent, the average gradient is 8.8%, including a 22% section!

Make an effort...

…short but intense with this climb: only 7km, but plenty of ascent!

At the top

The summit of La Planche des Belles Filles rises to 1148m and offers magnificent views over the valley.

Preparing for the climb De La Planche des Belles Filles

Experiences In Haute-Saône