Tour de France Stage 9 - Saint-Gaudens to Tarbes

Today's stage hits some of the loveliest countrywise in the French Pyrenees, from a charming village to a small city nestled in the mountains.

Here is the official Tour de France description of Saint-Gaudens, France:

• 11-time stage-town
• Population 12,000
• Sub-prefecture of Haute-Garonne (31)

In Saint-Gaudens passion for sport is a year-round activity: in the cycling arena of course, with the Tour de France and the Route du Sud, but also the Open Suez Gaz de France in Women’s Tennis, 13 and 15 a side rugby, football, and car racing on the Comminges car racing circuit. Read more about Saint-Gaudens...

Here is the Tour de France description of Tarbes:

• 11-time stage-town
• Population 51,000
• Prefecture of Hautes-Pyrénées (65)

Tarbes, located at the foot of the Pyrenees, is synonymous with gracious living and is home to a rich and diverse cultural, associative and sporting scene. Tarbes, a historic town, boasts an abundance of architectural gems: its cathedral, churches and façades stylishly bear witness to its fine historical heritage. Read more about Tarbes...

Find out more: Tour de France 2009 | Midi Pyrenees Region | Midi Pyrenees in Pictures