The Angliru may be the obvious absentee from the itinerary in Asturias but this stage highlights the fact that there are many more great tests that can be set in this, Spain's main dairy-producing region. This is billed as the race's queen stage although the penultimate day to Ancares is perhaps even tougher. There are five cat 1 climbs, the Cordal, Cobertoria and San Lorenzo being regulars on the Vuelta route.
The Farrapona has only featured once before, back in 2011, when Sky duo Bradley Wiggins and Chris Froome appeared to be closing in on a 1 2 GC finish when they kept their rivals in check as Rein Taaramäe won the stage atop the 17km Farrapona. With neither Wiggins nor Froome riding the Tour, will both reappear here?
Javier Guillén says: "The Farrapona starts off easy enough but gets serious in its final 5km. This section averages between eight and 10 per cent. With four passes before this, there's going to be a real battle and it should be spectacular both from the sporting and scenic perspective."
Copyright: lavuelta.com
-
Pan-American victory 'made the decision easier' for Andrew Strohmeyer to miss US Cyclocross Nationals and focus on World Cups
Three-time US 'cross titlist targets full season in Europe to land paid contract with a new team and 'spark more interest in cyclocross in the US' -
There have been multiple offers to buy out Oscar Onley's contract, but Picnic PostNL have so far refused
Tour de France revelation expected in Spain on Tuesday for Dutch team's training camp -
Best bike bar bags: Nine of the best options for packing your snacks and layers
Carry more than a saddlebag with these versatile handlebar bags -
'I don't believe I'm a super talent' – Isaac del Toro stays modest and hungry despite 2025 success
Mexican speaks exclusively to Cyclingnews about his Giro disappointment, his work ethic and sense of privilege
