Chasing Yellow in the Sun: The Tour de France Femmes Sweeps Through the South of France

If you’re anywhere near the South of France this August, clear your calendar. The Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift is rolling through, bringing nine days of world-class cycling, electric crowds, and sweeping landscapes.

Starting in Switzerland before dipping south through the Rhône Valley, Provence, and along the French Riviera, the official route (available on letourfemmes.fr) showcases some of the most beautiful towns in southern France.

Whether you’re looking for sun-drenched coastal views, historic hilltop fortress towns, or high-altitude drama, here are the key southern stops on this year’s tour—and why each one belongs on your travel bucket list.

The Southern Route Highlights

1. Tournon-sur-Rhône (Stage 6)

Nestled right on the banks of the Rhône River across from Tain-l’Hermitage, Tournon-sur-Rhône marks the gateway to the south. Famous for its 10th-century castle overlooking stone terraces of Syrah vineyards, it’s a paradise for foodies and wine lovers alike. Catching the peloton flying across the finish line here with a glass of local Hermitage wine in hand is about as good as summer gets.

2. La Voulte-sur-Rhône to Mont Ventoux (Stage 7 – The Queen Stage)

Things get dramatic as the race heads into the heart of Provence. Starting in La Voulte-sur-Rhône, the riders make their way toward the iconic, stark white limestone peak of Mont Ventoux—affectionately known as the Giant of Provence.

For travel enthusiasts, the surrounding Vaucluse region offers fields of lavender, olive groves, and charming villages like Bedoin. Watching the riders grind up the relentless 15.7 km ascent to Chalet Reynard and the summit is guaranteed to be one of the summer’s most thrilling sports spectacles.

3. Sisteron (Stage 8)

Known as the “Gateway to Provence,” Sisteron serves as the departure point for the longest stage of the race. Straddling the Durance River beneath its massive 12th-century Citadel perched on a dramatic limestone cliff, Sisteron feels like a scene straight out of a postcard. Grab a table at a street café in the old town to watch the caravan roll out before exploring the Citadel’s panoramic viewpoints.

4. Nice & the Côte d’Azur (Stages 8 & 9)

The grand finale takes place on the glamorous French Riviera. Nice hosts both the Stage 8 finish line and the entire Stage 9 circuit.

The peloton will weave up into the surrounding hills, tackling the famous Col d’Èze multiple times before descending down to the sea. Standing along the Promenade des Anglais with palm trees overhead, the Mediterranean sparkling in front of you, and the roar of the crowd behind you is the ultimate way to wrap up a trip to the South of France.

Handy Travel Tip for Nice Visitors

If you’re traveling in from abroad to catch the thrilling grand finale in Nice, having local currency or quick access to money transfer services can make your trip much smoother. Whether you need to exchange cash for local markets or send/receive funds while on the move, Globex has two conveniently located branches in Nice ready to serve you:

Over 40+ different currencies are available for currency exchange. You can send money to over 200+ countries from our branches!

Globex Nice Ville: 31 Rue d’Angleterre, 06000 Nice — right near the central shopping district.

Inquiries: +33 4 93 81 27 79

Globex Nice Riquier: 22 Boulevard Pierre Sola, 06300 Nice — conveniently situated in the eastern district.

Inquiries: +33 4 93 89 19 4

You can check out globexfrance.com for accurate details on our other branches in the South of France and their respective opening hours, full contact numbers, and complete addresses so you can spend less time worrying about logistics and more time enjoying the race!