From Ajaccio, the stage first leaves the city and climbs over the hills north of the bay. After the opening ascent, the route opens toward the Gulf of Sagone, with long coastal views and a road that rarely stays straight for long. Via Tiuccia, Sagone and Cargèse, it continues north, often close to the sea, but with constant rolling terrain. The section around Piana is one of the strongest parts of the tour: red rock, tight bends, steep slopes and repeated views down toward Porto. After that, the day changes again. Beyond Porto and Ota, the route leaves the coast and starts climbing into the interior. Through Evisa, the road runs past forest and gorges before gaining more elevation. The final stretch to the Col de Vergio is long, quiet and serious: fewer villages, more altitude, cooler air and a clear pass finish.
