Pico de las Nieves (Carrizal)

Climb Description

This is the classic and hardest way to climb to Pico de las Nieves. Ascending over 1,800m in a little over 26km, it has statistics similar to great climbs such as Stelvio or Col du Tourmalet. But Pico de las Nieves from Carrizal is actually harder than both, thanks to some brutally steep gradients in the middle part of the climb.




The climb begins by leaving the town of Carrizal in the direction of Ingenio (although it's also possible to start right on the coast in El Burrero). After passing through the bustling streets of Ingenio you join the GC-120 and the road ascends at a challenging but manageable gradient as far as La Pasadilla.

From here, the real challeng begins, with an 8km section where gradients are in double figures more often than not. The most demanding kilometre is upon leaving La Pasadilla, where the relatively straight road heads up at around 14% average, and with short pitches considerably steeper than that.

A couple of kilometres after passing the village of Cazadores you are over the worst of it, and it is plain sailing at much more gentle gradients to the top of the climb. As well as the challenge it presents, this is also a rewarding climb for the impressive scenery throughout.

In particular, the view from the top of Pico de las Nieves - the highest point on the island - is fantastic. On a clear day you can see both the iconic Roque Nublo and also the island of Tenerife in the distance.

Despite the name, which literally means 'snowy peak', Pico de las Nieves is usually open throughout the year.

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