From sprint stages to the gruelling mountain climbs, we assess the key stages in this year’s Tour De France. TV coverage starts on Eurosport from 2pm GMT and 3pm standard European time.

Prologue
Spectacular and unusually hilly and long Prologue. General classification [overall position] contenders will be very nervous of rivals gaining too much time so early in the race.

Stage 7
Barcelona-Arcalis: First proper mountain sage finishing at 2,240 metres one of the highest in the Tour’s history. We will know who is going well when the peloton pulls into Andorra.

Stage 17
Bourg Maurice – Le Grand Bornand: Brutal mountain day and probably the king stage of the Tour. Look out for fireworks.

Stage 18
Annecy time-trial: Probably one for the specialists unless its very close in the general classification, the overall lead, in which case all the big names will have to dig very deep on a tricky course. Potential for spills and thrills.

Stage 19
Montelimar-Mount Ventoux: Epic mountain top finish on sweltering Mount Ventoux. The general classification, if not already sewn up, will be decided here.

Stage 20
Montreau Fault-Yonne -Paris: Normally a promenade but this could be the stage for British fans if Mark Cavendish is still in contention and needs points to clinch the green jersey.

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Tags: France, Mountain stages, Tour de France