Discover the full Vuelta a España 2025 route breakdown and stage-by-stage analysis! Get up-to-date insights into all 21 stages, including epic climbs like Angliru and Bola del Mundo, summit finishes, sprint opportunities, and time trials.
• Explore highlights of each stage – from Italy’s opening flat finishes in Torino and summit drama in Limone Piemonte, to legendary Spanish climbs like L’Angliru and La Farrapona.
• Learn which stages favor sprinters, climbers, and general classification contenders.
• Find out what makes the 2025 route unique: 3,151 kilometers, four countries, seven medium mountain stages, six pure climbs, five sprint chances, and two crucial time trials.
• See what to expect from top teams and riders, including Visma | Lease a Bike, UAE Team Emirates, Sepp Kuss, Jonas Vingegaard, João Almeida, and Juan Ayuso.
• Plan how to watch every action-packed moment, with viewing info for FloBikes and major global broadcasters.
Perfect for cycling fans who want expert previews, must-know stats, and tips on where the decisive battles for the red jersey will unfold. Don’t miss your comprehensive guide to La Vuelta’s 90th edition!
Imagine this. Over 3 weeks, 23 teams and more than 180 riders will traverse four countries, Italy, France, Andora, and Spain, covering a jaw-dropping 3,151 km, nearly 1,958 mi in the Vela Espña 2025. It’s not just a race, it’s a test of endurance, strategy, and sheer willpower. This Grand Tour, the final one of the year, isn’t for the faint of heart. But here’s where it gets controversial. Is the 2025 edition truly balanced, or does it favor climbers too much at the expense of sprinters? The 90th edition of Lavalta kicks off in Turin, Italy on August 23rd and wraps up in Madrid, Spain on September 14th. Along the way, competitors will tackle seven medium mountain stages, six high mountain stages, five flat stages designed for sprinters, two time trials, one team-based and one individual, and even a hilly stage with a dramatic high alitude finale. With two rest days sprinkled in, the event promises to challenge every type of rider. But some might argue it leans heavily toward the climbers. Let’s break down what makes this route so special and potentially polarizing. Stage bystage highlights. Stage one, August 23rd, Torino Rea Deanaria to Novara, 186.1 km. The curtain rises in northern Italy with a relatively flat opener featuring a category 3 climb. While it offers an early opportunity for climbers to snag points for the King of the Mountains jersey, the stage is expected to culminate in a fast-paced sprint finish. The burning question, can a sprinter claim victory on day one after nearly two decades of dominance by other types of riders? Stage two, August 24th, Alba to Lemon Pedante, 159.6 km. Though still largely flat, this stage introduces a gradual incline. Warming up the legs for tougher battles ahead. With its first summit finish, this could be anyone’s game. But daring breakaway or another sprint showdown. You decide. Stage three. On his 25th, San Maritzio Kavezi to Seras 134.6 km. On their last full day in Italy, riders face the first medium mountain stage. A category 2 climb mid-stage and a continuous ascent in the final kilometers means sprinters will sit this one out. Versatility becomes key, giving allrounders a chance to shine. Stage 4, August 26th, Souza to Voyeron, 206.7 km. Stage crosses into France, blending familiar terrain with fresh challenges. Three categorized climbs in the first half give way to flatter roads later, setting the stage for yet another thrilling sprint or perhaps a surprise attack. Stage 5, August 27th, Figaras team time trial 24.1 km. Ah, teamwork makes the dream work. This short but grueling team time trial tests coordination and strength. Keep your eyes peeled for powerhouse squads like team Vizma Lisa Bike and UAE team Emirates. Could this stage foreshadow who will dominate the overall standings? Stages 6 to 7 into the mountains from Olot to Palandur stage six and Andor Lavella to Ser stage 7. These back-to-back mountain stages are where legends are forged. Steep gradients and relentless climbs weed out pretenders from contenders. Will anyone falter under the pressure? Or will we witness GC dreams come true? Stage 9. August 31st. Al Faro Valdes Garay 195 km. As the Pelaton rolls into the first rest day, they must conquer a hilly stage ending with a challenging summit finish. Ambitious riders may seize this moment to make bold moves or simply survive until tomorrow. Fast forward through rolling hills, coastal rides, and iconic climbs like Angleroo and La Farapona, and you arrive at the penultimate mountain stage. Stage 20, September 13th, Robble de Hava, Bola Mundo, 165.6 km. Sad. If the GC battle remains tight, this stage could seal the deal. Known as one of the toughest climbs in cycling, the Bola delmundo demands everything from its competitors. Expect fireworks if anyone has energy left to ignite them. Stage 21, September 14th, Alapardo, Madrid, 111.6 km. Finally, the traditional celebratory finale unfolds in Madrid. After nearly 3,200 kilometers of racing, the sprinters get one last harrah around the city center. Who will cap off their Vela journey with glory? Shiao to watch. Join the conversation. For Canadian viewers, Flow Bikes and the Flow Sports app bring the action live. US fans can tune in via NBC networks or stream on Peacock. Each platform provides highlights, replays, and insider insights throughout the event. So, what do you think? Does the 2025 Welta strike the right balance between excitement and fairness? Should organizers include more opportunities for pure sprinters? Sound off in the comments below. We’d love to hear your thoughts.