02/07/2023 -> Vitoria-Gasteiz > Saint Sebastian (208,9 kms)

The second day of the Tour de France will be between Euskadi’s other two regional capitals. The 208,9 kilometres that will connect Vitoria-Gasteiz and Donostia-San Sebastián offer a deceptive profile. The capital of Euskadi rises 600 metres above sea level and Donostia is bathed by the Cantabrian Sea, but the narrow, winding roads through Álava and Gipuzkoa will require a major effort.

The long rugged route around the peaks of Udana, Aztiria, Alkiza and Gurutze will give way to Jaizkibel, heading in the opposite direction to usual in the San Sebastian Classic. A punishing 10 kilometres with an average gradient of 4.6% to separate the breakaway pack from the rest arriving at the foot of this climb. Riders are sure to launch attacks before “landing” in a city that always welcomes the peloton with open arms.

Vitoria-Gasteiz is the capital of Euskadi, seat of the Basque Government and Parliament, is a city that combines natural spaces with a rich monumental heritage. The “European Green Capital 2012″ is a city to enjoy. Its “medieval almond”, so called because of its oval shape, is also one of the most emblematic old districts in Euskadi.

Goierri is an area made up of 18 villages, most of them with fewer than 1000 inhabitants, all with a privileged natural charm, between Aralar and Aizkorri-Aratz Natural Parks. Goierri is the perfect spot for rural and gastronomic excursions, where you can soak up Basque history and culture. In the higher areas, there are burial mounds and menhirs dating back thousands of years.

Donostia/San Sebastián, without a doubt, the most historic tourist destination in the Basque Country. Frequented by European aristocracy during the “Belle Époque”, for many it is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, with its balanced combination of small hills, stately buildings and sea... and La Concha bay, which the city is arranged around, where people live and enjoy the calm rhythm of living by the sea. It is a must for every traveller who loves good food. Famous for its Fil Festival.