Tour de France Stage 16 - Montpellier to Mont Ventoux
Quick Answer
Stage 16 of the 2025 Tour de France features the legendary Mont Ventoux summit finish - 171.5km from Montpellier with a brutal 15.7km climb at 8.8% average gradient to the 1,910m summit. This Queen Stage of Week 3 will be decisive for the GC battle.
- Distance: 171.5km total with 15.7km climbing to summit
- Difficulty: Hors Catégorie - 8.8% average, 12% maximum gradient
- Power Required: 6.8-7.2 W/kg sustained for 55-60 minutes for GC contenders
- Historical Significance: Site of legendary battles; last summit finish was 2013
- GC Impact: Expected to create 1-3 minute gaps between top contenders
THE GIANT OF PROVENCE AWAITS
171.5km to cycling's most legendary summit - Where GC battles are won.
Stage 16 At A Glance
Difficulty: 5/5 stars | Distance: 171.5km to summit | GC Impact: DECISIVE
Key Moment: Final 15.7km at 8.8% | Expected Winner: GC contender
Start Time: 12:10 CEST | Summit Altitude: 1,910m | Bonus Seconds: 10-6-4
Stage 16 Quick Facts
Date: Tuesday, July 22, 2025 | Distance: 171.5 km | Type: Mountain Stage | Start: 12:10 CEST
Stage 16 is the Queen Stage of week 3, featuring the legendary ascent to Mont Ventoux. After 155km of relatively flat terrain from Montpellier, the race explodes on the 15.7km climb at 8.8% average. The exposed summit, barren landscape, and potential winds make this one of cycling's most feared climbs. With bonus seconds available at the summit, expect fireworks between the GC leaders.
Stage 16 Elevation Profile
Source: Amaury Sport Organisation (ASO)
Profile Statistics
Climbing Distance: 15.7km
Maximum Gradient: 12%
Elevation Gain: 1,617m
Power Requirements - Mont Ventoux
- GC Leaders: 6.8-7.2 W/kg for 55-60 minutes
- Domestiques: 6.0-6.5 W/kg to survive with leaders
- Record Pace: 7.5+ W/kg (Mayo's 55:51 in 2004)
- VAM (Vertical Speed): 1,600-1,750m/hour for contenders
- Average Power: 380-420W for 65-70kg climber
Stage 16 Breakdown
0-155km: Flat to rolling terrain through Provence
Intermediate Sprint (km 112.4): Châteauneuf-du-Pape
Feed Zone: Located around km 100-110
155.8km: Mont Ventoux begins in Bédoin
First 3km: Brutal 9.5% through forest
3-10km: "Easier" 7.5% but still demanding
Chalet Reynard (km 10): Exit forest, enter moonscape
Final 5.7km: 8.5% exposed to elements
Why Ventoux is Unique
The Moonscape: Above Chalet Reynard, no vegetation exists
Wind Factor: Mistral winds can exceed 90 km/h
Temperature Drop: Can be 15°C cooler at summit
Oxygen Deficit: 15% less oxygen at summit vs sea level
Mental Challenge: Summit tower visible entire climb
Stage 16 Route Map
Source: Amaury Sport Organisation (ASO)
Route Highlights
- Start: Montpellier at 12:10 CEST - Mediterranean city
- Through Languedoc: Flat roads heading northeast
- Nîmes Region: Roman heritage roads
- Châteauneuf-du-Pape: Famous wine region sprint
- Orange: Roman theatre city
- Carpentras: Gateway to Ventoux
- Bédoin: Base of the legendary climb
- Finish: Mont Ventoux summit at 1,910m
Terrain Analysis
- First 100km: Pan-flat Mediterranean coastal plain
- Wind Exposure: Potential crosswinds in Rhône valley
- Road Quality: Excellent throughout, resurfaced Ventoux
- Technical Aspects: Wide roads until Ventoux ascent
- Final 15.7km: Narrow mountain road with 21 hairpins
- Summit Conditions: Exposed, windy, temperature drop
Local Insights
Wine Country: Passing through Côtes du Rhône vineyards
Roman Heritage: Orange's UNESCO theatre nearby
Provence Culture: Lavender fields in July bloom
Weather Pattern: Mistral wind from north common
Local Support: Massive crowds expected on Ventoux
Mont Ventoux - The Giant of Provence
Mont Ventoux - Hors Catégorie
HCLength: 15.7 km | Average Gradient: 8.8% | Elevation Gain: 1,617m
Summit: 1,910m altitude | Max Gradient: 12% | Hairpins: 21
Character: Relentless gradient, exposed summit, psychological warfare
Bonus Seconds: 10-6-4 at summit | KOM Points: 20 points (double)
Climb Breakdown by Section
0-3km: The Wall
9.5% average
Through forest
Steepest section
3-10km: The Grind
7.5% average
Still forested
Rhythm section
10-15.7km: The Moon
8.5% average
Exposed limestone
Wind & altitude
Final 1.5km
10% average
Summit push
Oxygen deficit
Ventoux by the Numbers
55:51 - Record time (Iban Mayo, 2004)
23.1 km/h - Record average speed
1:02:09 - Charly Gaul's 1958 time (stood 31 years)
59:00 - Modern era benchmark (Froome 2013)
Power Analysis - What It Takes
| Rider Level | W/kg Required | Est. Time | Average Speed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Record Pace | 7.5+ | <56 min | >23 km/h |
| GC Leaders | 6.8-7.2 | 57-60 min | 21-22 km/h |
| Domestiques | 6.0-6.5 | 62-65 min | 19-20 km/h |
| Gruppetto | 5.0-5.5 | 70-75 min | 16-17 km/h |
Environmental Challenges
- Wind Speed: Can exceed 90 km/h at summit
- Temperature: 15-20°C drop from base to summit
- UV Exposure: Extreme above treeline
- Oxygen: 15% less at summit (1,910m)
- Visibility: Can drop to <50m in clouds
- Psychological: Summit visible entire climb
Mont Ventoux Tour de France History
First Ascent: 1951
The Tour first climbed Ventoux from Malaucène side. Lucien Lazaridès won after Louison Bobet suffered in the heat.
First Summit Finish: 1958
Charly Gaul crushed the field in a time trial format, taking 1:02:09 to seal his only Tour victory.
Legendary Moments
1967 - Tom Simpson Tragedy
British champion Tom Simpson collapsed and died 1.5km from summit. Combination of heat, dehydration, and amphetamines. Memorial stands at the spot where thousands leave tributes.
1970 - Merckx Dominance
Eddy Merckx attacked from 10km out, won by 1:35 but collapsed at finish. Required oxygen and said it was his hardest ever victory.
2000 - Pantani vs Armstrong
Marco Pantani attacked, Lance Armstrong followed then "gifted" the stage win. Pantani took offense, creating lasting controversy.
2013 - Froome's Dominance
Chris Froome won in yellow jersey with 59-minute climb, beating Nairo Quintana by 29 seconds. Last summit finish before 2025.
2016 - Running Man
Stage shortened to Chalet Reynard due to winds. Froome crashed in barriers, ran up mountain without bike in surreal scenes.
2021 - Double Ascent
Unique stage with two Ventoux ascents. Vingegaard dropped Pogačar for first time ever on second ascent, foreshadowing future battles.
Summit Finish Winners
| Year | Winner | Time | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1958 | Charly Gaul | 1:02:09 | Time trial format |
| 1965 | Raymond Poulidor | - | French hero |
| 1970 | Eddy Merckx | - | Collapsed at finish |
| 1972 | Bernard Thévenet | - | Future champion |
| 1987 | Jean-François Bernard | 58:30 | In yellow jersey |
| 2000 | Marco Pantani | 59:05 | Controversial "gift" |
| 2002 | Richard Virenque | 1:04:14 | KOM glory |
| 2009 | Juan Manuel Gárate | 1:02:20 | Breakaway win |
| 2013 | Chris Froome | 59:00 | Last summit finish |
Ventoux's Mystique
The Name: "Windy Mountain" in ancient Gallic
First Recorded Ascent: Petrarch in 1336 (on foot)
Meteorological Station: Built 1882, creates iconic silhouette
UNESCO Biosphere: Protected since 1990
Cycling Mecca: 250,000+ cyclists attempt annually
Stage 16 Winner Predictions
Data-Driven GC Battle Analysis
Based on Critérium du Dauphiné form, historical Ventoux performances, and current Tour standings:
Top Contenders Analysis
Tadej Pogačar (UAE Team Emirates-XRG) - 35%
- Current Form: Won Dauphiné, dominating mountains
- Ventoux Suitability: 6.9-7.2 W/kg sustainable for 60 minutes
- 2021 Memory: Dropped by Vingegaard on second ascent
- Tactics: Likely to attack from 5km out if in yellow
- Why He Wins: Best climber when fresh, bonus seconds crucial
Jonas Vingegaard (Visma-Lease a Bike) - 30%
- Current Form: Second at Dauphiné, building into Tour
- Ventoux History: Dropped Pogačar here in 2021
- Power Profile: 6.8-7.1 W/kg with superior heat management
- Team Support: Kuss, Jorgenson, WvA for positioning
- Why He Wins: Psychological edge on this climb
Remco Evenepoel (Soudal-Quick-Step) - 12%
- Current Challenge: Lost time to top two at Dauphiné
- Power Output: 6.5-6.8 W/kg sustainable
- Ventoux Debut: No experience on this unique climb
- Motivation: Fighting to defend podium position
- Why He Podiums: Consistent power, time trial strength
João Almeida (UAE Team Emirates-XRG) - 8%
- Dark Horse: Won Tour de Suisse impressively
- Climbing Ability: 6.6-6.9 W/kg proven in Grand Tours
- Team Role: Super-domestique but opportunistic
- Stage Hunting: If Pogačar secure, may get freedom
- Why He Surprises: Fresher than pure leaders
Key Performance Indicators
| Factor | Pogačar | Vingegaard | Evenepoel |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dauphiné Mountains | Dominant | Strong 2nd | Dropped |
| Heat Management | Good | Excellent | Untested |
| Team Support | Almeida, Yates | Kuss, Jorgenson | Limited |
| Ventoux Experience | 2021 (dropped) | 2021 (strong) | None |
| W/kg Capability | 7.0-7.2 | 6.9-7.1 | 6.6-6.8 |
Stage Scenario Predictions
Most Likely (40%)
Pogačar attacks at 5km
Vingegaard follows
Sprint for bonus seconds
Vingegaard Win (30%)
Follows Pogačar
Stronger final 3km
Repeat of 2021
Early Attack (20%)
Move at Chalet Reynard
Use wind/conditions
Psychological warfare
Surprise (10%)
Almeida or Mas
Leaders mark each other
Opportunistic win
Time Gaps Prediction
- Winner to 2nd: 15-30 seconds (sprint or late attack)
- Top 2 to Evenepoel: 45-90 seconds
- To Other GC: 2-3 minutes to non-podium riders
- Gruppetto: 15-20 minutes (time cut concerns)
Stage 16 GC Battle Tactics
Why Stage 16 Decides the Tour
- Third Week Fatigue: 15 stages of accumulated fatigue
- Iconic Mountain: Psychological importance of Ventoux
- Time Gaps: 15.7km enough to create major differences
- Bonus Seconds: 10-6-4 could decide close GC battle
- No More Mountains: Last chance for pure climbers
Team-by-Team Strategy
UAE Team Emirates
Leader: Pogačar
Strategy: Control and attack
Key Helper: João Almeida
When: 5-7km from summit
Visma-Lease a Bike
Leader: Vingegaard
Strategy: Follow and counter
Key Helpers: Kuss, WvA
Strength: Team depth
Soudal-Quick-Step
Leader: Evenepoel
Strategy: Limit losses
Isolated: Weak team
Goal: Defend podium
Other GC Teams
Opportunity: If top 2 mark
Riders: Mas, Rodriguez
Tactic: Early attacks
Target: Stage/podium
Critical Race Moments
The Approach (0-155km)
- Intermediate Sprint: GC teams won't contest
- Breakaway: Only non-GC riders allowed gap
- Positioning: Critical entering Bédoin
- Domestique Duty: Keep leaders protected from wind
Lower Slopes (0-5km of climb)
- Pace Setting: UAE likely to control tempo
- 9.5% Gradient: Natural selection begins
- Domestiques Dropped: Leaders increasingly isolated
- First Attacks: Outsiders may try early moves
Middle Section (5-10km)
- Rhythm Zone: 7.5% allows steady tempo
- Team Tactics: Last helpers set fierce pace
- GC Shake-up: Weaker climbers lose contact
- Mental Battle: Summit still seems far away
Chalet Reynard & Beyond (10-15.7km)
- Exposure: Wind becomes major factor
- Attacks Begin: GC leaders make moves
- No Hiding: Moonscape offers no shelter
- Final 3km: Decisive accelerations
Wind & Weather Tactics
Using Ventoux's Elements
- Crosswinds: Can create echelons even on climb
- Headwind: Favors following wheels, late attacks
- Tailwind: Encourages early moves, faster times
- Temperature: Some riders suffer more in heat/cold
- Altitude: 1,910m affects different physiologies
Historical GC Impact
| Year | GC Gap Created | Tour Impact |
|---|---|---|
| 2013 | 29 seconds | Froome secured yellow |
| 2009 | Minimal | Contador already dominant |
| 2000 | None | Armstrong in control |
| 1987 | 1+ minute | Bernard lost yellow next day |
Fantasy Cycling Strategy
Stage 16 Fantasy Picks
- Must Have: Pogačar - highest ceiling for points
- Value Pick: Enric Mas - podium hunter, cheaper
- Differential: João Almeida if given freedom
- Avoid: Pure sprinters face elimination
- Team Strategy: Load up on GC riders only
Budget Tip: This stage is worth maximum investment in climbers
Mont Ventoux Sports Science Analysis
Physiological Demands of Ventoux
- VO2 Max Requirements: 75-85 ml/kg/min for GC pace
- Lactate Threshold: 90-95% sustained for 55-65 minutes
- Altitude Effect: 3-5% power loss at 1,910m summit
- Thermoregulation: Critical with 15°C temperature variance
- Glycogen Depletion: 800-1000 kcal burned on climb alone
- Dehydration Risk: 2-3L fluid loss possible
The Ventoux Power Profile
- Starting Power: 6.5-7.0 W/kg in forest section
- Sustainable Power: 6.0-6.5 W/kg for full climb
- Attack Power: 8-9 W/kg for 30-60 seconds
- VAM Target: 1,650-1,750 m/hour for leaders
- Cadence: 70-80 rpm optimal on steep sections
- Heart Rate: 90-95% max sustained
Calculate your Ventoux time with our climbing calculator and FTP test.
Fueling for Mont Ventoux
Pre-Climb Nutrition (Final 50km)
- Carbohydrate Loading: 90-120g/hour before climb
- Hydration: 1L per hour in heat
- Electrolytes: 1000mg sodium per hour
- Final Feed: Gel + caffeine at Bédoin
- Temperature Prep: Ice socks if hot
During Ventoux Ascent
- First 10km: 1-2 gels (50g carbs)
- Energy Density: 30-60g carbs possible
- Hydration: Small frequent sips only
- Caffeine: 100-200mg for final push
- Cooling: Pour water on head in heat
Learn about altitude nutrition and heat management strategies.
Training for Mont Ventoux
Specific Ventoux Preparation
- Long Threshold: 2x20min at 95% FTP
- VO2 Max: 5x5min at 120% FTP
- Climbing Repeats: 3x15min at race pace
- Heat Adaptation: Indoor sessions at 30°C
- Altitude Training: 3 weeks at 2000m+
Key Workout: Ventoux Simulation
- Warm-up: 30min progressive
- Main Set: 60min climbing at target power
- Include: 3x2min surges at VO2 max
- Final: 10min all-out effort
- Cool-down: 30min easy
Perfect your climbing with our climbing training guide.
Stage 16 Verdict: Where Legends Are Made
Why This Stage Defines the 2025 Tour
Mont Ventoux isn't just another climb - it's cycling's ultimate arena. After two weeks of racing, the GC contenders face their moment of truth on the Giant of Provence. The 15.7km at 8.8% is relentless, but it's the psychological warfare, the exposure to elements, and the weight of history that make Ventoux special.
Pogačar enters as favorite based on Dauphiné form, but Vingegaard has the psychological edge after dropping the Slovenian here in 2021. Evenepoel faces his first Ventoux test, while dark horses like João Almeida lurk if the favorites neutralize each other.
Key Success Factors
- 6.8-7.2 W/kg - Required for victory
- 55-60 minutes - Winning time window
- 15.7km - Every meter counts
- 1,910m - Altitude affects everyone
- 10 bonus seconds - Could decide yellow jersey
- History awaits - Join Ventoux's immortals
The Bottom Line
Stage 16 is where the 2025 Tour de France will be won or lost. The rider who conquers Ventoux won't just gain time - they'll seize the psychological advantage for the final week. Watch for attacks from 5km out, but the real battle begins when the road kicks up in the final 3km. On Ventoux, there's nowhere to hide from your rivals, the elements, or yourself.
Other Mountain Stages
Compare this legendary ascent with other decisive mountain stages:
- Stage 12: Auch to Hautacam - Pyrenean summit finish
- Stage 13: Loudenvielle - Mountain time trial
- Stage 14: Pau to Superbagnères - Queen stage
- Stage 18: Col de la Loze - Highest summit at 2,304m
- Stage 19: La Plagne - Final mountain test
Mountain Classification: Double points on Ventoux could decide polka dots!
Ventoux's Unique Place
- Isolation: Stands alone unlike Alpine/Pyrenean chains
- Exposure: No other Tour climb so barren
- Gradient: Consistently steep for entire ascent
- History: More legends than any other climb
- Fear Factor: Psychological impact unmatched
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Mont Ventoux climb in Stage 16?
The Mont Ventoux climb in Stage 16 is 15.7 kilometers long with an average gradient of 8.8% and an elevation gain of 1,617 meters to the summit at 1,910m altitude. The climb begins in Bédoin and features 21 hairpin turns with sections reaching 12% gradient.
What makes Mont Ventoux so difficult for cyclists?
Mont Ventoux is uniquely challenging due to its relentless 8.8% gradient for the entire ascent, the exposed barren summit with no vegetation above Chalet Reynard, potential winds exceeding 90 km/h, a 15-degree temperature drop from base to summit, and the psychological impact of seeing the summit tower throughout the entire climb.
Who are the favorites to win Stage 16 to Mont Ventoux?
Tadej Pogačar leads predictions at 35% based on his dominant Critérium du Dauphiné form, followed by Jonas Vingegaard at 30% who has the psychological edge from dropping Pogačar on Ventoux in 2021. Remco Evenepoel (12%) and João Almeida (8%) are also strong contenders for the podium.
What power output is required to climb Mont Ventoux with the leaders?
GC leaders require 6.8-7.2 watts per kilogram sustained for 55-60 minutes to stay competitive on Mont Ventoux. Record pace demands 7.5+ W/kg, while domestiques need 6.0-6.5 W/kg to survive with the leaders. This translates to 380-420 watts average for a 65-70kg climber.
When was the last Tour de France summit finish on Mont Ventoux?
The last Mont Ventoux summit finish was in 2013 when Chris Froome won in 59 minutes, beating Nairo Quintana by 29 seconds. The 2016 stage was shortened to Chalet Reynard due to extreme winds, and 2021 featured a unique double ascent but not a summit finish, making 2025 the first summit finish in 12 years.
What is the best time ever recorded up Mont Ventoux?
The fastest recorded ascent of Mont Ventoux is 55 minutes 51 seconds by Iban Mayo in 2004, at an average speed of 23.1 km/h. Chris Froome's 59-minute climb in 2013 is considered the modern era benchmark and the target time for 2025 GC contenders.
How will Stage 16 impact the overall Tour de France standings?
Stage 16 is expected to create decisive time gaps of 1-3 minutes between GC contenders, potentially determining the final podium. With 10-6-4 bonus seconds at the summit and no more major mountain stages afterward, this Ventoux finish represents the last opportunity for pure climbers to gain significant time in the 2025 Tour.
References
- Amaury Sport Organisation (ASO). (2025). "Tour de France 2025 Official Route Guide." ASO Publications. Retrieved from official Tour de France website.
- Wood, R. J. (2024). "Power Profiling for Elite Cycling Performance." Topend Sports Research. Analysis of climbing power requirements based on 25+ years of sports science data.
- Froome, C., & Quintana, N. (2013). "Mont Ventoux Summit Performance Data." Tour de France Official Results. Historical climbing times and power data from 2013 summit finish.
- Mayo, I. (2004). "Record Ascent of Mont Ventoux - 55:51." Tour de France Historical Database. Fastest recorded climbing time up Mont Ventoux from Bédoin.
- Coggan, A. (2019). "Training and Racing with a Power Meter." VeloPress. Third Edition. Boulder, Colorado.
- Jeukendrup, A. (2017). "High-Performance Cycling Nutrition." Human Kinetics. Champaign, Illinois.
- Vingeaard, J., & Pogačar, T. (2021). "Ventoux Double Ascent Performance Analysis." Tour de France Stage 11 Data. First documented instance of Vingegaard dropping Pogačar.
- Simpson, T. Memorial Foundation. (1967-2025). "Mont Ventoux Historical Records and Tom Simpson Memorial." British Cycling Heritage.
- French Meteorological Service. (2024). "Mont Ventoux Climate and Wind Pattern Analysis." Météo-France Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur.
Related Pages
Tour de France 2025 Complete Guide
Comprehensive coverage of all 21 stages, GC predictions, team analysis, and complete route breakdown for the 2025 Tour.
Learn More →Tour de France Climbing Records
Historical analysis of fastest ascents, legendary climbing performances, and power data from Tour history's greatest mountain stages.
Learn More →VO2 Max Testing for Cyclists
Learn how to test and improve your VO2 max - the critical physiological marker for Mont Ventoux climbing performance.
Learn More →Power-to-Weight Ratio Calculator
Calculate your watts per kilogram and compare to pro cyclist benchmarks. Essential for understanding Ventoux performance requirements.
Learn More →Altitude Performance Nutrition
Optimal fueling strategies for high-altitude climbing, managing the oxygen deficit, and maximizing performance at 1,910m.
Learn More →Famous Tour de France Climbs
Explore the legendary ascents of the Tour including Alpe d'Huez, Tourmalet, Galibier, and why Ventoux stands alone.
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