Stage 3

Vejle > Sønderborg
Sunday 3 July 2022
182 km

Stage 3

The stage starts in hilly terrain before the route takes the riders south. The Danish riders will without a doubt try to make it in the breakaway and prove their worth in front of the home crowd.

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The stage starts in hilly terrain before the route takes the riders south. The Danish riders will without a doubt try to get ahead in the breakaway and prove their worth in front of the home crowd.

The second part of the stage has no major challenges, and there are strong chances of avoiding any strong winds. So, the stage should be a treat for teams who can organize a well-prepared mass sprint. The broad streets and flat terrain favour the fastest sprinters, who are expected to fight for the stage win.

Profilen på etape 3. Etapen er flad.

Behind the stage

The third stage is a classic struggle between the breakaway and the sprinters in the peloton. The day starts with a trip around the area of Vejle, where riders know not to underestimate the short, but steep climbs – especially those familiar with the 2.HC. Race Post Nord Danmark Rundt – Tour of Denmark.

The round-trip passes Jelling and the UNESCO World Heritage protected Jelling Mounds. The stones were erected in the year 965 by Harald Blåtand. In 2022, Jelling will likely be attacking terrain for those seeking to make the breakaway.

The third stage will show Danish cycling, culture and history at its finest. The hills of Vejle are the most famous cycling terrain in Denmark and The Jelling Mounds are our birth certificate. Christiansfeld and Dybbøl Mølle on the route are some of our most important historic landmarks. I am sure that Danish riders in the race will give everything they have got to make the breakaway.
Alex Pedersen, spokesperson for Grand Départ Copenhagen Denmark

Like the second stage, there are three categorized climbs on the route, each offering 1 point to the mountain classification. The first lies after 27 kilometres on Koldingvej (1.4km, 4.4%). Therefore, we are likely to see riders try to break away right from the start.

After 83 kilometres, the riders reach the second climb, Hejlsminde Strand (850m, 4.7%). Shortly after, they reach the intermediate sprint at the stage’s second UNESCO World Heritage protected landmark, Christiansfeld.

The breakaway will most likely be allowed to continue at least through Haderslev to the third climb of the day, Genner Strand (1.6km, 3.3%). Collecting all three points can mean that a new rider takes over the polka-dotted jersey.

From here, the fight for the stage win is on between the breakaway and the peloton. The route goes through Aabenraa towards the finish line in Sønderborg.

The chances of sidewinds are lower than on the second stage, so this is a finish where sprinter’s teams will fight hard to ensure a mass sprint.

You can experience the stage here

Stage 3 starts in Vejle and finishes in Sønderborg. Kolding, Haderslev and Aabenraa are also on the route. You can see highlights and a walkthrough of the route, and you read more on transport and accommodation in Vejle and Sønderborg.

Oversigt over ruten mellem Vejle og Sønderborg

Along the route

De to runesten

Jelling Mounds (UNESCO) – Denmark’s birth certificate

The Jelling Mounds are among the most significant monuments in the world and they are included on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The Danish nation was born and created in Jelling. The museum centre Kongernes Jelling – home of the Viking kings is located in the centre of the historic area and offers a unique and supremely modern digital sensory experience. 

Legoland i Billund

LEGOLAND

LEGOLAND Billund is Denmark’s best-known and loved entertainment park among families and children of all ages, who love action, speed and fun. LEGOLAND is a popular tourist destination and the many innovations at the park make visiting LEGOLAND, which is located just 30 minutes from Vejle, a new experience every time. 

Dronefoto over Sønderborgs Slot.

Discover History at Sønderborg Castle

Both children and adults will enjoy Sønderborg Castle, which tells 800 years of history about Southern Jutland and the border region. Go on a journey of discovery through the dungeons and the castle kitchens and take in the atmosphere in the great hall where the royal father of Denmark Duke Hans the Younger held court. 

Kanonaffyring på historiecenter Dybbøl Banke

Become a Soldier for a Day at History Centre Dybbøl Banke

Denmark lost one third of its territory when the Prussians conquered Dybbøl Banke at Sønderborg in 1864. Dive into an important chapter of European history at History Centre Dybbøl Banke. Meet the brave soldiers, taste their rations, and take a walk on the recreated fortifications while listening to the thunder of cannons.

What happens along the route