The organisers of L'Étape Italy by Tour de France are focusing on a format that is aimed at riders of all levels. You can either start with sporting ambitions in the Gran Fondo or in the Tour variant. The two events in 2026 will lead through the province of Cuneo in the Piedmont and combine sporting activity with exploring the regional landscape. The routes are signposted along the lines of a Tour de France stage and use the signposting developed in France. You can either take part in the Gran Fondo format or as a cycle tour.
Along the routes, participants will find banners and installations reminiscent of historic Tour stages. The L'Étape Village forms the central meeting point of the event and is designed in the colours yellow and black. The Village houses the Tour de France Museum with exhibits on the history of the race and a shop with official Tour de France merchandise.
L'Étape Italy in the Maritime Alps
The L'Étape Piemonte Cycle-Touring Ride starts on 31 May 2026 in Entracque in Valle Gesso. Those who start with the Gran Fondo and want to push themselves to the limit will be offered 145 kilometres and 2894 metres in altitude. The Medio Fondo is also sporty, with 2184 metres of altitude difference over 115 kilometres. The relaxed alternative is a tour. The touring route only covers 50 kilometres with 795 metres of altitude difference through the Maritime Alps. The course begins in the alpine landscape with forests, meadows and small villages. The route initially heads south on a steady route through villages and natural areas.
In Valdieri, the landscape changes from mountainous to more open. The route continues to Borgo San Dalmazzo, where the urban structure shows the contrast between the plain and the surrounding valleys. From there, the route climbs again to Roccavione before returning to Entracque. The circular route alternates between natural sections, historic villages and more lively passages.
L'Étape Italy leads through the Monregalese
The L'Étape Mondovì Cycle-Touring Ride takes place on 20 September 2026 and starts in Mondovì. On this day, you can also choose between a race and a cycle tour. The Gran Fondo
will cover 110 kilometres and 2,250 metres in altitude. An alternative is the Ciclotouristica. The route of the cycle tour stretches over 60 kilometres with 1,104 metres of elevation gain through the Monregalese and the Alta Langa. The course initially leads southwards along provincial roads that blend into the rural surroundings.
The route passes Bastia Mondovì and Cigliè through areas with vineyards, woods and small settlements. In Murazzano, the route reaches the heart of the Alta Langa with regular climbs and descents and wide views of the hilly landscape. Via Marsaglia and Niella Tanaro, shady and open sections alternate, typical of the region's hilly terrain. From there, the route returns to Mondovì and completes the loop through farmland, historic villages and hilly stretches.
Participants can purchase local products from the region at the refreshment stations. Both routes are authorised for e-bikes and allow you to ride at your own pace.
Participation and conditions
The entry fee for both events is 25 euros for the bike tour and currently 50 euros for the race. The price includes the official jersey, the race pack, refreshments along the route and a pasta party after the ride. Children and young people under the age of 18 can take part, but must be accompanied by an adult for the entire route. Registration: https://letapeitaly.it/
Kristian Bauer
Editor
