Across the vast emptiness of Siberia, far from any semblance of civilisation, stage 37 led from Vladivostok to Irkutsk. The highlight of this stage was, without question, the largest freshwater lake on the planet. Lake Baikal lay directly on the course, which for much of the time followed the route of the Trans-Siberian Railway. One of the participants recounts her experiences, including arduous driving, delicious mushroom risotto and many helpful locals: