Lagunas de Neila (Quintanar)

Climb Description

This is the classic side of Lagunas de Neila and one of the more famous cycling climbs in Spain. It was first used in the Vuelta a España in 1998, a stage won by Chava Jiménez, who attacked 3km from the summit, against the orders from his team captain Abraham Olano.

Lagunas de Neila is more well known though for its annual appearance in the prestigious Vuelta a Burgos stage race. It is usually the key climbing in deciding the general classification and has been won by some of the best climbers in world cycling, including Tony Rominger, Alejandro Valverde, Iban Mayo, Mikel Landa and Nairo Quintana.

The climb - particularly when ridden from Quintanar de la Sierra - is characterized by its steep gradients in the last few kilometres which nearly always results in explosive action.

Although much of the climb is in forest, it is very enjoyable to ride, and the picturesque lakes are just a short hike from the top.

Lagunas de Neila is open year round subject to the weather. Snow is reasonably common from December to March, but there are still times then when it is clear. The Puerto el Collado - near the village of Neila at 1404m altitude is open throughout the year.

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