La Planche des Belles Filles: Taking on the Tour’s brutal summit finish

Stage six of the Tour de France features the brutal final climb of La Planche des Belles Filles, which this July adds a final kilometre of suffering on gravel - Photos by Daniel Gould

In July 12, 2012 the wiry frame of a cyclist emerged at the top of an impossibly steep incline, powered an ungainly path to the finishing line, and threw his hands in the air in victory. The cyclist’s name was Chris Froome, the summit was La Planche des Belles Filles, and both had just staked a claim to Grand Tour fame.

Thank you for reading 20 articles this month* Join now for unlimited access

Enjoy your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1

*Read 5 free articles per month without a subscription

Join now for unlimited access

Try first month for just £1 / $1 / €1