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WHAT ARE THE MOST DEMANDING CYCLING CLIMBS IN THE WORLD?
For cyclists, climbing is the ultimate test of strength, endurance, and mental resilience. While many hills can challenge, only a handful of climbs around the world are considered truly punishing—where gradients exceed double digits, altitudes soar above 2,000 meters, and the road seems to rise endlessly. These climbs are legendary not just for their difficulty but for their beauty, history, and the way they push athletes beyond their perceived limits. This article explores the most demanding cycling climbs worldwide, from Europe’s brutal ascents to South America’s high-altitude monsters.
Alto de L’Angliru, Spain
Widely regarded as one of the toughest climbs ever featured in professional cycling, the Alto de L’Angliru in Asturias, Spain, is infamous for its extreme gradients. First introduced in the Vuelta a España in 1999, it has since become a decisive battleground in the race. The climb measures 12.5 km with an average gradient of 10.1%, but the numbers alone don’t tell the full story. Some sections pitch up to an astonishing 23.5%, demanding relentless power and balance to keep the bike moving forward.
What makes Angliru especially brutal is its uneven rhythm. Riders face steep walls followed by slightly easier ramps, preventing any chance to settle into a steady pace. Rain and fog, common in Asturias, further add to the misery by making the already steep roads slippery and unpredictable. For many professionals, summiting Angliru is as much about survival as it is about racing.
Why Angliru is legendary
Average gradient above 10% over a long distance.
Brutal ramps reaching 20–23%.
Unpredictable weather conditions in northern Spain.
History as a decisive stage in the Vuelta a España.
For amateurs, conquering Angliru is considered a rite of passage. Few climbs in the world combine such steep gradients with the prestige of professional racing.
Mauna Kea, Hawaii, USA
Mauna Kea is often called the hardest climb in the world, and for good reason. Starting near sea level in Hilo, Hawaii, the climb stretches over 68 km to reach an elevation of 4,205 meters. No other paved road offers such a massive vertical gain. While the average gradient is “only” around 6%, the sheer length, extreme altitude, and final gravel section make it a near-impossible challenge for most riders.
The climb can be broken into three distinct sections: a steady ascent from sea level to 2,000 meters, a steeper middle section averaging 10–12%, and a brutal final approach where thin air and loose gravel combine to punish exhausted legs. At high altitude, oxygen levels drop to around 60% of sea level, making even modest efforts feel overwhelming. Only the most prepared and acclimatized cyclists attempt Mauna Kea.
Key challenges of Mauna Kea
68 km of continuous climbing.
Altitude above 4,000 meters reduces oxygen intake.
Final gravel section adds technical difficulty.
Massive total elevation gain of over 4,100 meters.
Cyclists who complete Mauna Kea often describe it as a once-in-a-lifetime ordeal. It is not just a climb—it is a survival test against altitude, terrain, and sheer distance.
Passo dello Stelvio, Italy
The Stelvio Pass is one of the most iconic climbs in the Alps and a recurring star in the Giro d’Italia. At 2,757 meters, it is the second-highest paved mountain pass in the Alps, with a north side ascent famous for its 48 switchbacks. The climb from Prato allo Stelvio stretches 24.3 km at an average gradient of 7.4%, but the unrelenting nature of the ascent and its extreme altitude make it one of the most demanding rides in Europe.
The Stelvio is more than a climb; it is a spectacle. The endless zig-zag of switchbacks carved into the mountain creates one of cycling’s most breathtaking views. While its gradients may not reach the extremes of Angliru, the combination of length, altitude, and history make Stelvio a bucket-list challenge for cyclists worldwide.
What makes Stelvio special
Altitude of 2,757 meters impacts breathing and power.
48 hairpin turns on the northern side.
Over 24 km of continuous climbing.
Historic role in the Giro d’Italia.
The Stelvio demands pacing, patience, and preparation. Its combination of beauty and brutality makes it unforgettable for both professional and amateur riders.
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