Memorable Climbs and Key Stages of Paris-Nice: The Legendary Battles on the Road to the Sun

Paris-Nice, known as the “Race to the Sun,” has long been a battleground for some of the greatest cyclists in history. This early-season stage race, held every March, has shaped champions and delivered unforgettable moments. Among the many challenges along the route, several climbs have played decisive roles in the race’s outcome. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most iconic ascents and key stages that have defined Paris-Nice over the years.

Col d’Èze: The Final Test Before the Finish

The Col d’Èze is undoubtedly one of the most legendary climbs in Paris-Nice history. Located just outside Nice, this 9.6 km ascent with an average gradient of 4.7% has often served as the last crucial challenge before the race concludes on the French Riviera.

First introduced as a race-deciding individual time trial in the 1960s, the climb became famous thanks to cycling legends such as Jacques Anquetil, Eddy Merckx, and Sean Kelly, who all made history on its slopes. The Col d’Èze’s significance peaked during Sean Kelly’s era, when the Irishman clinched multiple overall victories with dominant performances against the clock. More recently, it has returned as a stage that often determines the final standings, providing thrilling battles among general classification contenders.

Mont Brouilly: A Short but Fierce Challenge

Unlike the gradual ascent of Col d’Èze, Mont Brouilly is a short but brutally steep climb that has tested the world’s best cyclists in modern editions of Paris-Nice. This 3 km ascent, with sections reaching gradients over 25%, became a decisive feature in 2017, where Julian Alaphilippe showcased his climbing prowess, taking a crucial stage victory and solidifying his place as a top-tier rider.

Mont Brouilly’s inclusion in the race added an explosive dynamic, forcing puncheurs and climbers to push their limits early in the season. The steep gradients and relentless ramps have made it a fan-favorite climb, promising drama and selection among the peloton.

Col de la Couillole: The High-Altitude Battle

Paris-Nice is traditionally not known for high-altitude finishes, but Col de la Couillole, first used in 2017, changed that perception. At 15.7 km long with an average gradient of 7.1%, this demanding ascent provided a rare mountaintop showdown in the race.

That year, Richie Porte and Sergio Henao fought fiercely for the overall lead, with Henao ultimately securing his victory in a dramatic final stage. The Col de la Couillole’s reintroduction in 2023 reinforced its importance as one of the hardest climbs ever included in Paris-Nice, setting the stage for future battles.

The Col de la Turbie: A Classic Riviera Ascent

Before the Col d’Èze became the defining climb near Nice, the Col de la Turbie played a similar role in earlier editions of the race. This 7.5 km climb at around 5.7% gradient was often used as a prelude to the final stages, forcing decisive attacks from general classification contenders.

The climb’s location, overlooking the Mediterranean, offers spectacular scenery but no respite for riders seeking victory. Over the years, Col de la Turbie has witnessed legendary duels, particularly during the mid-20th century, when it was a key factor in shaping the race’s outcome.

Other Iconic Climbs in Paris-Nice

• Col de Vence – Frequently included in mountain stages, this climb has been a selective point for general classification hopefuls.
• Mur de Fayence – A short but punchy climb with double-digit gradients, favoring explosive climbers.
• La Madone d’Utelle – Another significant summit finish, used in 2016, where Geraint Thomas put on a masterclass performance.

The Climbs That Shape Champions

Paris-Nice may not have the brutal high-altitude passes of the Tour de France, but its legendary climbs provide early-season challenges that often foreshadow the form of future Grand Tour contenders. From the time-trial showdowns on Col d’Èze to the relentless ramps of Mont Brouilly, these ascents have written countless pages in cycling history.

As the “Race to the Sun” continues to evolve, we can only anticipate more dramatic showdowns on these legendary climbs. One thing is certain: in Paris-Nice, the road to victory is never easy, and only the strongest prevail.