Alto del Torno is a hidden gem of a climb and one of our favourites in the region. It is not especially hard, nor particularly high, but in terms of scenery and enjoyment to ride, it is up there with the best mountain passes in Spain.
The scenery is diverse, passing through picturesque villages, forested areas, open countryside and offering views of both the high mountains of the Picos de Europa and the beautiful coastline of the Cantabrian Sea. You have probably never heard of the Alto del Torno before, but make sure that you don't miss it if you are in the area. Both sides are great for climbing, but this side shades it in terms of scenery.
The Alto del Torno was discovered by the Vuelta a España in 2014, when it was used as the penultimate climb of the day, before finishing at the nearby Lagos de Covadonga.
Alto del Torno is open throughout the year, although there can be short-term closures in winter due to snow.
There is beautiful scenery throughout the climb
Roads & Traffic
The road is surface is in very good condition and there is very little traffic on this climb.
The top is only 526m altitude, but has the look and feel of high mountains
Alternative Routes
Alto del Torno can also be climbed from the north, starting from the village of Nueva. This is the shorter and steeper side.
Spain
France