Plane trees, fields and a stretch along the Canal du Midi. The day begins quietly and in the countryside, with plenty of shade and very little traffic. The water keeps you company, and the kilometres tick by.
Still, this is a tough stage. Not because of one steep climb, but because of the length: around 33 kilometres, and more than 9 hours on the road. It’s mostly about keeping going. As you approach Toulouse, the countryside fades and the city takes over. Traffic, bridges, city asphalt. That will make your legs feel it. Then you see the pink brick and know you’ve made it. Toulouse is a lovely place to rest your legs. Take your time over the last kilometres, you’ve earned them.