The Rhône corridor drops away quickly as the stage first follows the Isère towards Romans-sur-Isère. Bridges, riverbanks and views towards the Vercors shape the calmer opening. After that, the route becomes smaller and more rolling: hills, farms, woodland and quiet roads through the Drôme des Collines set the rhythm. Around Le Grand-Serre, the highest point comes after steady ups and downs, before the ride opens into the Bièvre plain. La Côte-Saint-André finishes the day with its old centre, market hall and Berlioz heritage.
