It feels like on every second hill around here there is an old medieval village, a chapel or tower, and it is what gives this whole area quite a special atmosphere.

The top of stage two (the most remote one of the eight), gives you stunning views towards the Pyrenees and starts at the mystic scenery of an old abandoned village.

Shuttles were allowed during practice so most of the riders got in two runs on each of the stages before Friday and took it a bit slower on the last day to get some rest before the race.

The man everyone is trying to catch over the next two weeks. Current series leader Richie Rude won the last two rounds and won’t make it easy for anybody to take that number one spot from him.

Dropping in on the top of stage three with scenic views all around.

You have to be precise. On the loose surface being off the line means riding on marbles and that´s something you definitely don´t want to do on some of the sections where the next cliff is waiting just inches away.

If there are no more riders on the stage the media crew has to step up. Sven Martin delivering the goods.

Some of the stages are quite far out but the liaisons reward you with stunning views that alone makes them worth the ride.

Due to the fact that the results of the prologue won’t be counted towards the final race the riders took it as a fun little show event for the spectators.

There where a lot of trains going on… showing of the latest medieval fashion trends in mountainbiking...

Nevertheless some riders still took a bit more of a serious approach and in the end Alex Cure went fastest today in front of Martin Maes and Nicolas Quere.