This is the most spectacular side of one of the most enjoyable climbs in Spain - if not in the whole of Europe. The Ancares National Reserve is one of the remote and isolated parts of Spain and this climb goes right through the heart of it.
There really aren't enough superlatives to emphasise how enjoyable it is to climb Ancares - especially from this side. It has it all: a perfect road surface, next to no traffic, amazing scenery throughout, delightful mountain villages, some steep gradients and sweeping downhill sections. It also has its place in cycling history, having hosted a stage finish in the 2012 Vuelta a España - won by Joaquím Rodríguez.
The ascent via Balouta is effectively two separate climbs, with the steep section beginning after the village of Murias. From here it is 12km at an average of nearly 8% gradient, with several stretches up around 14%.
Ancares can close in winter due to snow, but is usually open from mid-April to early December.
The view looking back from the top of the climb
Roads & Traffic
The road is in very good condition.
There is very little traffic on the climb throughout the year. This is one of the most isolated and uninhabited parts of Spain.
The only difficulty on the road is the steep gradients!
Alternative Routes
This is one of three main ways to climb Ancares from the west.
We currently do not have any cycling holidays that include Puerto de Ancares. However, our
Great climbs of the Vuelta and
Camino de Santiago cycling holidays pass nearby and could be adapted to include the climb.
Find out more in the links below about these and other mountainous tours that we run nearby.
Spain