After a rest day, the the Tour de France riders get back to serious climbing in the 209-km ninth stage through the French Alps.
The upcoming stage includes four classic Tour climbs, with a demanding 20-km descent to the finish which could help chasers to rein in breakaways.
While Lance Armstrong's chances of a recovery are bleak after he lost nearly 12 minutes in the last stage other Tour contenders will look for a chance to make up for lost time.
Australia's rider Cadel Evans holds the tour leader's yellow jersey with Andy Schleck and the defending champion Alberto Contador close behind.
