A short and at first glance innocuous stage compared to some the peloton have seen. But when the official race website states: “It is expected to be a tough and dangerous day,” you know there has to be a catch somewhere.

Thursday 11 September: Stage 18, A Estrada to Monte Castrove en Meis, 157km

The catch turns out to be a double ascent of the cat 2 Monte Castrove, the first with 30km to go and then again for the summit finish. At 5km for each pass it’s not the longest climb the riders have faced, but with sections ramping up to 12% in places, this one may well cause some problems for those weary legs. It could be a day for those who like a fast, explosive climb. How about Philippe Gilbert (BMC)?

There is also a whispering of a rumour (or should that be a sighing, or perhaps a howling?) that there could be crosswinds on the coastal roads the peloton will navigate before the final circuit of climbs. Echelons at the seaside maybe?

Link: Official website

Header image: Galicia en verde, Orujo. by Javier Corbo