The initially flat terrain becomes steeper towards Alfontes, where the first 2 km climb to Picota is found. With the sea still claiming its place in an increasingly diverse landscape, you begin a descent towards Ribeira de Algibre and join a flat road before pausing in Querença, a traditional village indisputably renowned for its regional cuisine. The hardest part of the stage requires powerful pedalling for the São Romão and Relógio ascents, before letting up during the return descent, which passes through Vale do Lobo and Quinta do Lago, in Almancil.