Experience the Czech passion for cycling! Why ride L'Etape Czech Republic by Tour de France?

Thousands of fans lining the route, cheering cyclists on as they battle for climber and sprinter primes—and, of course, the finish line. This isn’t a scene from a key stage of the Grande Boucle or any other professional race, but from the amateur cycling event L'Etape Czech Republic by Tour de France. In the heart of Europe, an unforgettable experience awaits.

This is the largest amateur cycling race in Central Europe, held on fully closed roads and with an electrifying atmosphere. Be amazed by the exceptional organisation, repeatedly praised by A.S.O., the company behind the legendary Tour de France! So why should you take on the Hilly L'Etape Czech Republic by Tour de France on 21 June 2025?

1. A unique atmosphere

The Czech Republic is a sports-loving nation, and a race bearing the Tour de France name attracts not only riders but also passionate spectators. Every year, thousands of fans gather in fan zones along the route, creating an electrifying and unforgettable atmosphere that often gives cyclists goosebumps. And they don’t just cheer for the frontrunners—they give their full support to riders at the back of the pack, providing them an extraordinary experience and an energy boost.

No other amateur race offers anything like it. Riding through corridors of spectators, just like in the real Tour de France, will push you to your limits and drive you towards the finish line.

Even Tour de France champions have been left in awe. “We were here as amateur riders, yet there were so many people everywhere that I didn’t know what to think,” said an emotional Andy Schleck after riding the Hilly L'Etape Czech Republic in 2022. Alberto Contador, Tour de France champion in 2007 and 2009, reflected on his 2024 participation: “I was amazed at how the fans supported both the leaders and those at the back. I dare say I truly experienced the Czech passion for cycling.”

2. A capital city, yet immersed in nature

Prague is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Its historic centre, with the iconic Prague Castle skyline, has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1992 and is among the top five most visited cities in Europe. Yet, just minutes away, you can find yourself in a cycling paradise, free from heavy traffic.

For many, L'Etape Czech Republic on 21 June will be the highlight of their Czech cycling trip. A short ride from Prague, you’ll find roads with exceptional surfaces set against a backdrop of history and nature.

Be inspired by magnificent castles, fortresses, and some of Europe’s oldest monasteries. The romantic landscape along the Berounka River, dotted with historic landmarks, is a dream for cyclists. The Hilly L'Etape Czech Republic by Tour de France winds through the breathtaking and diverse Czech countryside, including the Křivoklátsko Protected Landscape Area, one of the country's most stunning forested regions. For nearly 50 years, it has been a UNESCO biosphere reserve. You’ll be amazed by the beauty of cycling through landscapes filled with forests, rolling meadows, orchards, and fields.

3. Exceptional safety standards

Many European road cycling events promise closed-road routes free of traffic—but reality often falls short. However, L'Etape Czech Republic by Tour de France truly delivers. Every year, 3,000 participants highlight the safety and traffic-free roads as one of their most memorable experiences.

And this isn’t about riding on rough gravel paths or remote forest trails. The race takes place on high-quality roads, regularly used for normal traffic, ensuring a premium cycling experience.

4. A challenge (almost) everyone can take on

L'Etape Czech Republic by Tour de France is certainly a test of endurance, but the climbs here are manageable for most. Conquering Alpine peaks is no easy feat—climbs of ten kilometres or more demand more than a determination. A mountain you climb for over an hour requires thorough preparation.

However, L'Etape Czech Republic by Tour de France is different. Even a true amateur cyclist, passionate about riding and eager to explore new places, can take on the challenge. It’s not an extreme survival test—it’s about the joy of racing. That’s why participants can choose from three route options:

• 66 km
• 97 km
• 139 km

5. Ride alongside legends

The race regularly attracts (not just) Czech legends.

Zdeněk Štybar, a three-time cyclocross world champion and Tour de France stage winner, has been an ambassador for L'Etape Czech Republic by Tour de France since the first edition. Over the years, legends such as Alberto Contador and Andy Schleck, both Tour de France champions, have lined up at the start.

Other stars include Kristian Hynek, winner of the Cape Epic MTB stage race, and even Martina Sáblíková, a three-time Olympic speed skating champion—who has won L'Etape Czech Republic twice!

Meeting these legends on the course is an experience like no other—because what unites us all is our shared love of cycling.