Page Contributor(s): Photos: ASO / Sprint Cycling Agency
INTRO
Stage 11 offers the sprinters' teams a chance to fight back after two hard mountain days, running 151.3 km from the historic port city of Cartagena to Lorca along the Murcia coast and interior. The only obstacle is the Category 3 Alto de Aledo, which crests with roughly 30 km still to race — enough time for a well-drilled sprint train to reel in any late attacks before a bunch finish in Lorca.
PLAN YOUR ROUTE
We've partnered with Sherpa-Map.com to bring you the best route planning tool. With a PRO Membership you can use this climb as a reference when creating your route. The stage is flat coastal riding for its first 110 km, hugging the Mediterranean before turning inland toward Totana and Aledo. The lone climb, Alto de Aledo (Cat. 3, 9.5 km at 4.2%), is a steady, unspectacular grade — no ramps or surprises, just a gradual pull that shouldn't trouble the sprinters' domestiques. From the summit it's a fast, gently descending run into Lorca.
Wide coastal highways carry the route out of Cartagena past the Mar Menor lagoon before rolling agricultural roads take over further inland toward Totana and Aledo. Surfaces are smooth and well-maintained throughout, typical of Murcia's well-funded regional network, with minimal traffic outside town centers. Parking is straightforward in Cartagena's port area; expect road closures near the Lorca finish during race hours.
Standard gearing is all you need for this one — Alto de Aledo never exceeds a gentle 4.2%, so a compact crank with a 25 or 28-tooth cassette handles it comfortably. This is an aero and drafting day more than a climbing day; a strong group will matter far more than gear choice.
Cartagena has its own regional airport and good rail links to Madrid and Murcia city, making it an easy base with plenty of hotels near the historic port. Lorca, the finish town, is smaller but well-connected by highway, with its hilltop castle and old town worth a visit. The Mar Menor lagoon along the early part of the route is a popular beach destination if you want to extend the trip.
ROUTE MAP
