L'Étape Brasil

L'Étape Brasil brings the official Tour de France experience to South America, held in the mountain resort town of Campos do Jordão in the Serra da Mantiqueira range of São Paulo state. The 110 km route with 2,200 m of climbing winds through the beautiful Atlantic Forest mountain roads at altitudes around 1,600-1,800 m, offering a challenging and scenic ride. The mountain roads of the Serra da Mantiqueira feature a mix of sustained climbs and rolling terrain, with some steep ramps that test your climbing legs. The altitude adds an extra dimension — while not extrême, it is enough to make efforts feel harder than at sea level. The October date means spring weather with the possibility of afternoon rain showers in the mountains. Training should build a strong climbing base with attention to sustained efforts at moderate altitude. Include tempo and sweet spot intervals on climbs of 10-20 minutes, progressive long ride distance up to 90-100 km with significant climbing, and practice riding in warm, humid conditions. The event rewards well-rounded riders who can climb efficiently and maintain pace across multiple hours.