This year’s Tour of Britain, the UK’s biggest cycle race, will feature its first return to the legendary Caerphilly Mountain climb since 2013 as part of a spectacular final stage in South Wales.
Stage eight of the Tour will see over 100 of the world’s best riders race from the picturesque Margam Country Park to the finish line in the shadows of Caerphilly Castle on Sunday 10 September.
Far from being a ceremonial end to the race, the battle to be crowned Tour of Britain champion will go down to the wire thanks to a stunning but challenging route supported by the Welsh Government.
The sting in the tail comes in the form of a double ascent of Caerphilly Mountain, the gradient of which averages 10.1% across its 1.3 kilometres. An estimated 10,000 spectators lined the route of this much-loved climb in 2013, the last time it featured in the Tour of Britain.
Councillor Sean Morgan, Leader of Caerphilly Council, said: “We are delighted to get the opportunity to host the final stage of this major sporting event. The magnificent backdrop of Caerphilly Castle will provide a spectacular setting as the riders cross the finishing line – especially after tackling the gruelling Caerphilly Mountain climb. I’m sure residents and businesses will join me in welcoming the event, which will help put Caerphilly on the map for an international audience.”
