Etape du Tour 2016 countdown is on…

Fifteen thousand people are expected to descend on Morzine to ride the prestigious event and thousands more will turn up to support friends and family who are taking part. The 146km ride which takes in four famous climbs, is the penultimate stage of this year's Tour de France and it's a beast. We've been checking out the route and getting some top tips to help you if you're attempting this gruelling challenge...

The route

The ride starts in Megeve and you've got a gentle, wide descent all the way to the base of the Col des Aravis. This is the first climb of the day. It's a long 11km climb but isn't particularly steep, sticking at a gradient of no more than 6% all the way to the top. It has some flatter sections which will give your legs a much needed moment of respite. From the top of the Aravis you head down to La Clusaz before powering to the bottom of the Col de la Columbiere. The second ascent of the day is 10km long and again not particularly steep. It sticks between 3% and 7% but be prepared for the last kilometre which shoots up. You'll then enjoy a mega 20km descent into the heart of Cluses. Enjoy this - it'll be your last for a while! From Cluses the ride takes you to Mieussy which sits at the bottom of the mighty Ramaz. The Col de la Ramaz is 14km in length to reach the top and with an average of 8% it really is a tough climb. However, the last 4km are much easier than the rest so you can look forward to those as you battle the first ten.

You then head down through the resort of Praz de Lys before a sharp descent into Taninges. If you're not feeling the burn by now then you're certainly about to. Next comes the mighty Col de Joux Plane- a painful and vicious climb with a 10% average gradient. It never lets up. It's tough on a “one col ride day” so on the Etape, after already climbing three mountains; it's going to be particularly testing. It does however boast some of the most incredible views in the region. It's as beautiful as it is tough. Once at the top of the Joux Plane which is a climb of about 12 km, you’re nearly home. It's a fast descent into Morzine and the long awaited finish line.

Practicalities

As I mentioned, fifteen thousand people are signed up to take part in the Etape which will make the start in Megeve a logistical nightmare. You have to sign in for the event on the Friday or Saturday before which organisers hope will reduce the stress on race day itself. Getting into the town of Megeve is going to be tricky as roads will be shut and there will be queues of traffic full of people heading to compete. If you leave it too late you risk having to cycle in to town which will add to your already hefty mileage. If you’re signed up for the race, you’ll already have been sent your guide to race day. Read it carefully otherwise you could be penalised for failing to follow the instructions.

Top tips

Riders have been split into sections depending on their race number and each grid sets off around 7 minutes apart. It's hoped that this will give some distance between the thousands of riders. However it is going to be a challenge to navigate your way around so many people. Top tips are to expect to go slower both up and down for the first climb at least. Also don't try to make up time on the descent- take your time to ensure your safety and the safety of others. If you do get to the start line early- don't worry- there's a breakfast bar to tide you over until you set off.

Nutrition

Talking of food, I've heard that the food stops are often extremely busy. It's advisable to have your own supply of food, gels and energy drinks to help you get round the ride. However, the route takes you through towns and villages and there will be shops and cafes if the situation becomes desperate. There are four main food stops along the way, including one towards the end in Samoens. Toilets are also being provided but they’re probably not going to be that frequent, make sure you plan ahead.

Weather

There's really very little you can do to prepare for the race now other than get your food and supplies ready. Keep your legs spinning over the next week and be ready for any weather conditions. We've had it all over the last few weeks from rain and hail to boiling hot summer days. You'll be in the mountains and it's always unpredictable. Looking at the weather forecast today, it looks warm and dry, however, that could change in an instant. It's not going to be an easy event down to the fact that the course is extremely challenging and that there are thousands of people taking part however it's bound to have an incredible atmosphere.

The Party

When you arrive in Morzine you'll be greeted by a sea of red spots and a party to be remembered. Enjoy it...if you can! Just think- in less than a week- we'll all be reflecting on what will hopefully be an amazing sporting day in the Portes du Soleil.

Good luck to everyone taking part in the Etape du Tour 2016... See you on the road.