Stage nine is, for the most part, a flat stage on the coast through Torrevieja, Alicante and Benidorm – familiar territory for many British holiday-makers.

However, a sting in the tail – a double ascent of the Cumbre del Sol high above the coast – could pose a few problems, not least the sharp summit finish.

The peloton first climbs the 6.5km from Moraira – rising 340m in altitude in that time – before descending back to the coast and into Javea.

The second ascent of the Cumbre del Sol is then steeper, rises higher and leads to the summit finish at 415 metres.

Though relatively small compared to some of the race’s more famous climbs, it is a stage where the GC men must be on their guard – particularly with the rest day just two days away.