Stage 12: Friday, July 16 - 201.5 km (125 miles)

Saint-Galmier		Saint-Flour
(Societe du Tour de France)		(Societe du Tour de France)

Well situated between the hills of Lyonnais and dominating the plains of Forez, Saint-Galmier owes its reputation to the local famous sparkling mineral water. Known already to the Romans, the water was finally bottled in the 19th century by Augustin Badoit, and has since carried his family name. Saint-Galmier is also known for its 15th century gothic church, a real gem for the period.

Tourist center along the road to the French Midi, Saint-Flour is situated between the hills of Margeride and Cantal. The old capital of the Haute-Auvergne region and symbol of the French Auvergne, the 8,500 habitants owe their name to Bishop Florus in the 4th century. The old city still maintains much of its appealing medieval atmosphere.

Climbs: Km 35.9 - Croix de l'Homme-Mort Pass: 16.2 km at 4.4%.
Km 50.4 - Pradeaux Pass: 7.7 km at 3.4%.
Km 95.5 - Procureur Climb: 7.8 km at 4.2%.
Km 123.2 - Fix-Saint-Geneys Pass: 6.3 km at 3.5%.
Km 156.2 - Lestival Climb: 7.9 km at 5.3%.
Km 182.3 - Védrines-Saint-Loup Pass: 4.1 km at 4.5%.

Start: on the D6
Finish: Allée Pompidou