The first 50 kilometres are as flat as can be, after which the route becomes more undulating. The climbs to Arcos de la Frontera and to Medina Sidonia stand out. The last one is 2.5 kilometres long and rises at 7%. The riders move through the picturesque medieval town with 30 kilometres remaining.
The route continues on undulating terrain to a surprisingly challenging finale. Partly covered with cobbles, the climb to the line at the Plaza San Jorge is a 1 kilometre toil at 10% with ramps up to 25%.
The Alcalá de los Gazules finale is a re-make of the 2018 and 2019. On both occasions it was Tim Wellens who took the spoils.
Update: The organisation decides to move the finish line during the race due to risk of winds up to 75km/h on the top of the original finish climb. The new home straight is not as steep.
The first three riders on the line gain time bonuses of 10, 6 and 4 seconds, while the intermediate sprint comes with 3, 2 and 1 seconds.
Ride the route yourself? Download GPX stage 3.
Another interesting read: results 3rd stage 2023 Ruta del Sol.
Ruta del Sol 2023 – stage 3: route, profile, more
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