Aliartos & Theva sprints
Heading out to the coast, before then riding slightly inland across the coastal plains, the first sprint arrives after 72km, in the town of Aliartos. With the nearby forested hills providing a backdrop, valuable points are up for grabs on this flat and straight road made for sprinters. It’s then a mere 20km to ride before the second sprint of the day in historic Theves – known as Thebes to many in history – where the Archaeological Museum of Thebes provides a vast collection of ancient artifacts. However, the peloton won’t have time to stop, as once the sprint is decided, they’ll be climbing upwards and into the hills. For the cycle tourists visiting today’s stage however, in the historical province famed for Heracles, the son of Zeus and famed throughout the world, Thiva was known as Thebes, and was also instrumental in the battles against the Spartans. It’s referenced in the famed 12 impossible tasks, all of which were achieved by Heracles. He won’t be in the peloton today though, as the world’s top riders compete for modern day Greek glory.
Heading to the Pindus mountains
The peloton now has a slight gradient to contend with, as lush hills line the way to the nearby Pindus mountains. Weaving its way across this scenic region, the road then straightens at 129km in, as the 3rd sprint of the day gives the sprinters a few remaining points. Once contested, the road finally climbs into the hills and the sprinters can rest for a while and enjoy the scenery, as teams begin to plan their approach to Fyli and today’s summit finish.
Fyli is famed as being one of the fortresses built by the Athenians (4th century BC), on the road from Athens to Thebes. It controlled the nearby mountain passes and was home to numerous battles in ancient times. Today’s battle though will be the heat and the distance, as the elevation goes upwards and into the mountains. For you watching however, there’s plenty to see nearby, including lots of hiking opportunities, and sites such as the Kleiston monastery of the dormition of the virgin Mary – a 13th century, Byzantian monastery.
Fyli & Mount Parnitha
Mount Parnitha, which provides today’s summit finish is north of Athens and is surrounded by dense pine forests which according to legend, were inhabited by the God, Pan. With the hind quarters of a Goat, maybe a bit of Pan luck and climbing ability is required for today’s riders.
Turning steeply upwards with 20km of the stage left, once the riders have passed by the crowds, the area and its multiple vineyards can be enjoyed, and a glass or two of the local wines. The riders will need to take on fluids and gels of a different kind though, with the heat and steep slopes of the category 1 climb awaiting them at Fyli.
The finish for the day weaves its way steeply up the slopes of Mount Parnitha, the highest on the peninsula of Attica, with an elevation of 1,413 m, and to the summit and the Regency Casino Mont Parnes finish. Who will gamble on an early push – who knows – it’s a steep and long climb and the heat will have taken its toll through the day. One thing is for sure though: with only one remaining stage, there will be lots to ride for, and it will be exciting!
Stage analysis: Stage 4 is the only mountain top finish of this year’s edition. On the previous stage the general classification will have taken shape but this stage with the 17.4km climb to the finish will determine the overall winner of the race. There is a good opportunity that we may see two races in one with the possibility of stage success going to the breakaway. We will then see the GC contenders battle it out on the climb to the finish line. Plenty to look forward to in this stage with a spectacular mountain top finish. This should be a cracker!
