Tour de France 2008 Stage 15 - Embrun, France to Prato Nevoso, Italy

Sunday July 20, 2008

Today's Tour de France starts in the Alps of France, but quickly moves into Italy. This is all followed by a rest day in Cuneo, Italy. Today's route starts in Embrun, France and ends in Prato Nevoso, Italy. The Tour de France is about to get an Italian accent.

Here is the Tour de France description of Embrun:

Located in the heart of the Hautes-Alpes and the border to Provence, nestled amid lakes and mountains, the town of Embrun, referred to as the “little Nice of the Alps” is a major center for tourism activity. Athletes and nature lovers find everything they need to fulfil their every desire. There are 500 kilometres of mountain-biking trails, white water sports on the Durance River, countless hikes to be had in the protected natural wilderness, paragliding, water sports on the 3000 hectares of Serre-Ponçon lake, and of course fishing. Embrun overlooks the Durance from atop its rocky outcrop, and enjoys sunny weather and an advantageous location near the Serre-Ponçon Lake and the National Ecrins Park.
Embrun’s own lake, located 2 kilometres from the centre of town, has been beautifully developed for visitors and locals alike. A recent detour now protects the centre of Embrun from traffic, enhancing the rich historical architecture, now the venue for many events. Embrun is a dynamic city which has planned for harmonious growth. The city currently has a population of 6700 inhabitants and a firm eye on the future.

Here is the Tour de Franc description of Prato Nevoso:

Prato Nevoso stands at 1500 metres altitude, in the heart of a ski area known as Mondolé Ski, with 130 km of runs. Prato Nevoso is in the town of Frabosa Sottana, and came into being in 1966. The resort is located in the beautiful natural Prato basin. Gently sloping runs and great sunshine have earned it the reputation as the perfect Family Ski Resort. The “Pratolandia” amusement park and the Snowpark are two major attractions, as are the many activities, including night-time skiing, trekking, golf, mountain biking, tennis, hang-gliding and hot-air ballooning.
The magnificent Caudano, Bossea and Dossi caves lie nearby, and offer a fascinating visit. Fairs featuring local products such as chestnuts, the DOP Raschera cheese, and honey, draw many interested visitors. Local museums (the Mountain Museum and the Italian Snowboard Museum) and traditional mountain markets also add to the attraction of the Maudagna Valley.