Alto de El Angliru

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The Alto de El Angliru (alternative name: La Gamonal) is a steep mountain road in Asturias, near La Vega-Riosa, in northern Spain. It is one of the most demanding climbs in professional road bicycle racing, having been used in the Vuelta a España stage race.

The top of the climb is 1570 metres above sea level. The total height difference is 1248 metres. The climb has a length of 12.55 kilometres, so it has an average 9.9% slope. However, the average, as high as it is, understates the physical and mental demands of the climb.

The first five kilometres of the climb have an average gradient of 7.6%—a stiff but not overly demanding test for world-class cyclists. The sixth kilometre provides a chance for riders to recuperate, as the gradient in that area is only 2.1%, and even includes a short descent. However, the last half of the climb is far more severe. From the six-kilometre mark to the summit, the average gradient is 13.1%. The steepest part, which has a 23.6% slope, is known as Cueña les Cabres and is located about 3 kilometres from the summit. The climb is no easier from this point, as there are two later ramps at gradients of 18 to 21% (sources vary).

The organizers of the Vuelta a España searched for a long time for a mountain that could rival the Alpe d'Huez or the Mont Ventoux in the Tour de France. The El Angliru was first included in the Vuelta in 1999. Since then it has been ascended only three more times, but it is nonetheless one of the most feared climbs in professional cycle racing.

During stage 15 of the 2002 Vuelta, riders ascended the Alto de El Angliru in heavy rain. An unexpected consequence was that some cars were not able to climb the steepest part of the ascent. Some riders were caught up behind stalled team cars whereas some were forced to ride up the mountain with flat tires because the mechanics could not service them. The organizers subsequently announced that they were considering removing Alto de El Angliru from future Vueltas.