LAGOS DE COVADONGA
46.5294° N, 10.4532° E
Arguably the most famous road in Spain, the closed road to cars (Tourist buses still use it) leads to an idyllic land and the lakes of Covadonga. Lake Enol and Lake Ercina.
The stunning scenery and challenging gradients have made it one of the most important climbs in modern history in the Vuelta Espana making it worthy of everyone’s attention
12.8
KM
| 969m | 7.5% | 16.5% | CLIMBED | AVERAGE GRADIENT | MAX GRADIENT |
|---|
Situated in Asturias northern Spain, Lagos de Covadonga starts from the idyllic and significant town of Covadonga. Here the Sanctuary of Covadonga ( is a famous attraction in its own right with many undertaking the pilgrimage of visiting the chapel and lake which is underneath.
From the start the the gradient is consistently steep averaging 9%. Surrounded by trees until the landscape changes to a rocky, green and dramatic landscape
Small farmsteads found along the way
There are four distinct sections of Lagos De Covadonga.
The section with the trees, The section with Mirador de Los Canónigos and then this descent and further climb. This leaves you constantly excited to see what is around the next corner.
The most demanding section La Huesera. Gradients pushing 15% for nearly a kilometer. Lagos de Covodonga has 13 hairpin bends / switchbacks.
The fourth section is the approach to the lakes. This is the first time when you get to see Lake Enos / Lagos Enos one of the two lakes of Lagos de Covadonga. A slight descent before then a gravel path which leads up to Lake Ercina / Lago de la Ercina shown below
LAGOS DE COVADONGA SUMMIT
This climb / road is deceptive. The distance is not far, but the average gradient makes for a challenging ascent as several descents distort the average gradient. Lagos de Covadonga is incredibly beautiful and a climb where it excites you to see around the next corner due to their distinct sections and lack of forward visibility. We loved the closed roads to cars (certain times) although there are still buses which you have to be very mindful of, especially in the descent. It is easy to see why this road is so significant to the Vuelta Espana and arguably Spains most popular road/destination.
Epic.
LAGOS DE COVADONGA CYCLING CLIMB FAQ'S
During peak season the road is closed to cars from 8AM to 9PM and on bank holidays. The town of Covadonga gets very busy with cars because of this.
Lagos de Covadonga has 13 hairpin bends / 13 switchbacks
Only before 8AM and subject to limited numbers
Lagos de Covadonga has two lakes Lake Enos and Lake Ercina.
The best time to visit would in May/Early June or September to avoid the crowds
There is a restaurant called Ma Rosa
