Gamoniteiro is pretty much what you would expect from a climb which shares its mountain with Angliru. It never quite reaches the highest gradients of its more famous cousin, but it is still a very tough climb in its own right.
The first half of Gamoniteiro is basically the entire climb of La Cobertoria from Pola de Lena - the turn off towards Gamoniteiro comes less than 1km from the top. From here, the climb takes on a different characteristic, with a series of very steep sections followed by brief periods of recovery. Once you get to the final kilometre - the hardest of the climb - there is no choice other than to power you way up to the radar station which marks the top of the climb.
Gamoniteiro is one of the most beautiful climbs in Asturias - particularly the second half which is wonderfully isolated. Here you may not see another person - just the peaceful and cyclist friendly dogs which lazily guard their sheep and cows from the wolves that occasionally roam the area at night.
One of the highlights of is that you climb right to the summit of the mountain. Most cycling climbs take you over a pass or to wherever the road ends; it is a rare pleasure to ride up to the highest point around and to enjoy the 360° views which that affords.
Gamoniteiro can be open throughout much of the year. Short term closures due to snow are common in winter, but the road is routinely cleared, to allow access to the radar station.
There are stunning views throughout the second half of the climb
Roads & Traffic
The road surface as far as the Cobertoria is in perfect condition. After turning off towards Gamoniteiro it is mixed. Generally it is very good, but there are short sections which are concerete and very rough - almost like riding over cobbles. These are only short at around 100-200m, but they are also on some of the steepest sections, so require a lot of power to get over.
There is very little traffic throughout the climb.
The radar station marks the top of the climb
Alternative Routes
The second half of Gamoniteiro - the defining part of the climb - is only accessible one way. The lower part, however, can also be accessed via the west side of La Cobertoria.
Spain
France