📸 After serving lead-outs in the Giro, Van Aert now gets served at Michelin-Starred restaurant - at the invitation of E3 Saxo Classic

It was a tough three weeks for Van Aert. After a preparation period disrupted by illness, the Belgian could not achieve his pink dream. Several analysts even questioned whether it would be better for him to withdraw. But thankfully, he didn't because, in the end, he proved invaluable to Visma | Lease a Bike.

After all that suffering, the all-rounder is now enjoying time at home with his family. He previously shared a series of photos on his Instagram account of the best moments from the final week of the Giro – and now, following on from those visible signs of enjoyment, he has posted another wonderful update. The E3 Saxo Classic invited Van Aert to dine at the Hof van Cleve, where he enjoyed an exquisite evening with a glass of champagne in his hand.

But van Aert won't be able to sit still for long because, in a few weeks, the Tour de France will begin. The first week will feature several stages that suit him perfectly. He looks like a serious contender for stage wins and perhaps even the yellow jersey in his current form.

After that, he probably faces his most important task of the summer: together with Giro winner Simon Yates, Van Aert will be one of the support riders for Jonas Vingegaard, aiming for his third overall victory in the Tour de France.