The Olympic torch will reach new heights as it begins its journey in Millau atop its world-famous viaduct. This cable-stayed bridge, inaugurated in 2004 and weighing more than 36,000 tonnes, was key to unlocking the potential of the region. From there, the torch will head to downtown Millau, in the heart of the Grands Causses Regional Natural Park. It will then set course for the Mediterranean coast and Sète, the 'singular island'. It will stop at Mount Saint-Clair, the highest point of the town, which offers a breathtaking view of the Étang de Thau. Next, it will plunge to the town centre and visit landmarks such as the Théâtre de la Mer, an old fort-come-theatre where plays are performed against the backdrop of the sea, making it a unique venue wildly popular among artists and patrons alike. The remainder of the stage will take place 33 kilometres to the north, in Montpellier.

Celebrations in Montpellier

Montpellier is the last stop on the torch's route for this stage, scheduled for Monday, 13 May; its tour of the city will start in the green space of the Promenade du Peyrou, which dates from the late 17^th century. It will then head downtown to the focal point of the city, the Place de la Comédie. Next, it will go to the Bassin Jacques Coeur and on to City Hall, located in Place Georges Frêche, bang in the middle of the Port Marianne neighbourhood. The final relay will set off from Place du Soleil, in the neighbourhood of Les Constellations, and cross the city all the way to Place de Thessalie. Finally, the last leg will take it to another iconic square less than a kilometre away: Place de l'Europe, on the edge of the Antigone neighbourhood. This venue, nestled between the city centre and the banks of the Lez, will host the end-of-day celebrations and the lighting of the cauldron to wrap up this amazing day of festivities.

Celebration venue info

Come and celebrate the passing of the Olympic flame in Montpellier!

The celebration site is free and open to all from 3.30pm to 7.45pm at the following address: ESPLANADE DE L’EUROPE, 34000 MONTPELLIER

A festive programme open to all awaits you, including :

• events organised by the local authorities: sport, music, shows, etc.
• stands run by the Relay of the Flame sponsors:
  • Coca-Cola will be providing a musical and festive atmosphere
  • Banque Populaire will be giving the public the chance to try out water sports
  • Caisse d'Epargne will be dedicating its stand to basketball and handball
• a show organised by the sponsors on the sports slab from 6 p.m.
• 7.20pm: the arrival of the last torchbearer and the lighting of the Olympic cauldron, a moment not to be missed!

Note: a giant screen, a host and a DJ will also be on hand to get the public in the mood for the Torch Relay!