The 2010 Critérium du Dauphiné Libéré will include the famous slopes of Alpe d’Huez for the first time in its history. In the race from June 6 to 13, 2010, Alpe d’Huez will see the passage of the penultimate stage, on June 12.

This is a small consolation for the town which had hoped to host a stage finish of the Tour de France for the 27th time in history. Grenoble is also a stage finish, one day ahead of the race up to the famous ski resort in the French Alps.

Unlike in the past, Grenoble doesn’t host the final day of the race. This honor goes to Sallanches in celebration of Bernnard Hinault’s World Championships title in 1980. Back then, the event was held in the same town.