Stage 3: Lorient to Pontivy

Perfect for the Sprinters

After two days of climbing some of Brittany’s steepest hills, the sprinters will be relieved to get a first opportunity of a stage win. And following stages hitting the western and northern coasts of the region, this one graces the southern shore between the naval base of Lorient to the fishing port of La Trinitésur-Mer. The course then takes the peloton into the green countryside of Morbihan, passing though places that have significance for the sport, including the Cadoudal climb at Plumelec and the village of Radenac, where 1947 Tour winner Jean Robic (right) grew up. The sprinters’ teams won’t let any breakaways get established on terrain such as this, especially as the finish at the impressive Rohan Castle in Pontivy is at the end of a superb 1,400-meter straightaway. This will see the first round in the battle for the green jersey between past winners Peter Sagan, Michael Matthews and Sam Bennett, along with challengers like Caleb Ewan and Arnaud Démare.

Finish Line

After 3.8km on the streets of Pontivy, at the end of a flat 1,400m straight on the 23 feet wide Rue du Général de Gaulle.