Spain · Iberian Peninsula
Lagos de Covadonga
The most legendary climb of the Vuelta a España, winding through lush Asturian scenery to the glacial lakes of Enol and Ercina. Famous for the steep La Huesera section.
- Length
- 14.0 km
- Avg gradient
- 6.9%
- Max gradient
- 15%
- Elevation gain
- 962 m
- Summit
- 1,135 m
- Hairpins
- 12
Versants
- From Covadonga — 14.0 km at 6.9% (max 15%)
History
Lagos de Covadonga is a mountain climb in Asturias that ascends to two high lakes at 1,135 m. The 14 km climb at 6.9% average features steep ramps and tight switchbacks leading to the famous alpine lakes and sanctuary.
The climb is frequently used in Spanish cycling races and gran fondos, and it's a testing climb for riders training in northern Spain. The final sections are steep and there are few easy sections to recover on.
The mountain is famous not only for cycling but as a pilgrimage destination and national monument site. The combination of cycling difficulty and historical significance make it a meaningful climb for Spanish cyclists.