Lagos de Covadonga is probably Spain's most cherished cycling climb, and is a staple of the Vuelta a España race. Angliru may be more infamous, but Lagos de Covadonga is the choice of the purists. It is long enough to launch a race winning attack, but not so long that all the action is left until the final couple of kilometres. It is steep enough that anyone having a bad day will lose big time, but not so steep that riders are merely looking to survive rather than attack.
The climb though is as much about the surrounding scenery as it is about the road itself. Set in the Picos de Europa National Park, one of the most beautiful natural areas in Europe, this is one of the most visually stunning climbs that you will ever ride. The lakes at the top, which the climb is named after, are particularly spectacular.
If you only ever get the chance to do one climb in Spain - Lagos de Covadonga should be very high up on your list. To see the climb to Lagos in all its glory, check out our videos of some of the best climbs in Asturias.
The climb to Lagos is usually open throughout the year.
The upper part of the climb has very inconsistent gradients
Roads & Traffic
The road surface is in very good condition.
There is generally not much traffic on the climb, although it can get busy at times during weekends with good weather.
Cars are banned from the climb throughout most of the day in July and August, making
for very pleasant riding conditions (although you still have to keep an eye out for the minibuses ferrying people to the lakes).
The spectacular lakes mark the top of the climb
Alternative Routes
This is the only way to climb to Lagos de Covadonga.
Spain
France