From Besançon, the route stays close to the Doubs and the canal for a long stretch. The first kilometres leave the river bend, then locks, rock walls, wooded slopes and quiet valley towns take over. Baume-les-Dames gives the stage an early highlight with its old centre, abbey and narrow Doubs valley. Towards Clerval and L’Isle-sur-le-Doubs, the riding remains smooth without turning dull. Around Montbéliard, the day becomes more urban: bridges, industrial history and busier roads. From there, the route turns north and reaches Belfort below its citadel.
