1st Stage
The first Tour de France in 1903 consisted of six stages, totaling approximately 2,428 km (1,509 miles). This race was a much longer ride than today. Each stage lasted several days, and riders had to ride through the night. Here is a detailed description of the stages and course of the first race:
Stage 1: Paris – Lyon
Distance: approximately 467 km (290 miles)
Date: July 1 – July 2
This stage was a very long distance, requiring riders to ride through the night.
Stage 2: Lyon – Marseille
Distance: approximately 374 km (232 miles)
Date: July 5 – July 6
It heads south, over a variety of terrain. Stage 3: Marseille – Toulouse
Distance: Approximately 423 km (263 miles)
Date: July 8 – July 9
A long stage along the southern coast of France.
Stage 4: Toulouse – Bordeaux
Distance: Approximately 268 km (167 miles)
Date: July 12 – July 13
A stage across southwestern France.
Stage 5: Bordeaux – Nantes
Distance: Approximately 425 km (264 miles)
Date: July 14 – July 15
A long stage to the western coast. Stage 6: Nantes – Paris
Distance: Approximately 471 km (293 miles)
Date: July 18 – July 19
The final stage back to Paris.
This first Tour de France was a very challenging course, with riders having to ride very long distances at once. As a result, many riders dropped out, with only 21 of the 60 riders finishing.
There were a few days of rest between each stage during the race, which is one of the major differences from the modern Tour de France. The Tour de France today consists of shorter stages, with 21 stages usually taking place over three weeks.