Cuitu Negru (Busdongo)

Climb Description

Cuitu Negru immediately became a fans favourite when it was first used in the Vuelta a España in 2012, during a stage won by Dario Cataldo. The Vuelta climbed it via the Puerto de Pajares, which, unfortunately for us, carries too much traffic to really enjoy. Cuitu Negru is also busy from the south side, but it once you turn off the busy N-630 it becomes very quiet and a genuine battle between cyclist and gradients.

Despite the hype, Cuitu Negru is no Angliru. The final 3km are very steep and have tough pitches, but it is not as long or sustained as the toughest climbs. The road is also wide enough that you can zig-zag across to earn some respite if required.

Although not the toughest climbing in Spain, the final 3km of Cuitu Negru are beautiful, perched on the border of Asturias and León. If it were not for the traffic in the first part of the climb; this would be worthy of at least a **** rating.

Cuitu Negru is a ski resort and so the road is usually cleared in winter. It can be bitterly cold at this time of year though, so we would recommend climbing it from May to October.

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Roads & Traffic