This is it then, the penultimate stage. While stage 6, which was thought by most to be easier than feared, stage 7 was hard from the start.

Straight into climbing mode, the route headed skywards, and the extra layers that were frantically pulled on due to weather warnings for the stage were quickly pulled off and stuffed in jersey pockets for the remainder of the day.

Many decided this stage was actually a great deal harder than stage 6, and I was inclined to agree. Legs beginning to really hurt and saddle sores biting, the route never let you rest for one moment.