Vuelta España Femenina - Stage 6

A slow build into the first category 1 climb of the race

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Vuelta España Femenina - Stage 6

Dates 3 May
Race Length 132 kms
Start Tarazona
Finish La Laguna Negra
Race Category Elite Women

Published: 23 April 2024

Stage 6: Tarazona-La Laguna Negra, Vinuesa (132.1km, mountain)

A second consecutive mountain stage for the peloton begins in the pretty town of Tarazona, in the province of Zaragoza. A town that, like many in Spain, enjoys the best architecture of several historical periods, and as a result, it will offer a spectacle as the riders head out for another tough day in the saddle.

Another gruelling day at the Vuelta Femenina begins with a relentless 30km of uncategorised climbing as the race route heads west, offering a launchpad for riders keen to establish themselves in the day’s early break. On a day with over 2000m of altitude gain, those who get away are likely to be stronger climbers, and there’s a possibility that with the right composition, someone from the group could make it all the way to the line ahead of the bunch.

Following the difficult start to the day, an easement will likely occur as the road levels out and the peloton can enjoy an extended period on relatively flat roads as they head west through the Castile and León province. Even this simpler section may not be without its challenges though, as the possibility of crosswinds lurks, giving rise to the potential for echelons – GC teams will need to be alert to any splits in the bunch should the conditions be blustery, to avoid losing time.

Situated in the Urbión Mountains, in the province of Soria, La Laguna Negra (the Black Lake) is the destination for the peloton on stage 6. La Laguna Negra (6.5km, 6.8%) will demand a great deal of grit and determination and provides another stage opportunity for climbers in the bunch. With the summit finish coming after two difficult days of racing, the opportunity to strike a decisive blow in the overall classification will tempt those who are feeling good to strike out in search of glory.

Words by Katy Madgwick