The opening week of the Vuelta a España hits a crescendo on Sunday before the first rest day, a mighty test for the general classification contenders across 178km with more than 4,000 metres of elevation gain from Motril to Granada.
The difficulties begin after 80km, before the mid-point of the stage, with the Puerto de El Puerche (8.9km at 7.6%). Kilometres 2-4 push up to 10%, and then two sections at the top soar to 11% gradient.
The Alto de Hazallanas climb begins after a trek through a narrow valley carved by the Genil River. It is just over 7km in length and averages 9.5%, with a wickedly-steep 20% gradient on a section of the lower slopes.
There are time bonuses on offer atop the second ascent. The finish line beckons 22km after the second ascent, which is a dizzying drop from the summit through the rugged landscape around Cenes de la Vega and into Granada.
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