Best CyclingTrip

Asturias, Spain

Alto del Fito: the Asturian viewpoint above the Picos de Europa

Start point

Arriondas

Distance

7.8 km

Elevation gain

580 m D+

Duration

30 to 50 min

Difficulty

Hard

Best season

April to October

Road

From Arriondas, the Alto del Fito climbs through a steady run of switchbacks to a viewpoint offering one of the most complete panoramas in Asturias, spanning both mountains and ocean.

A short, rhythmic climb from Arriondas

From Arriondas, at around 40 m of elevation, it’s 7.8 km for 580 m of elevation gain to the summit at about 620 m. The average gradient sits around 7%, with steeper sections around 10 to 12% in the middle of the climb.

The Alto del Fito has been climbed several times by the Vuelta a España, often used as a warm-up before other, more feared Asturian ascents like the nearby Lagos de Covadonga.

How to approach the ride

The steady gradient allows a consistent rhythm across the whole climb, without needing the sharp bursts of effort required on more irregular passes.

When to climb it

April to October, making the most of cooler mornings in summer, since Asturias, although Atlantic, can turn hot and humid by midday in that season.

Good to know

The summit viewpoint, fitted with a rest area, offers a 360-degree panorama over the Picos de Europa on one side and the Cantabrian coast on the other, one of the finest views reachable by bike in the region.

Getting to Arriondas

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Where to stay near Arriondas

A selection of well-located places to stay so you can start the ride fresh.

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Recommended gear

Frequently asked questions

Has the Alto del Fito featured in the Vuelta a España?+

Yes, this climb has been used several times by the Vuelta a España, often as a springboard toward other, better-known Asturian ascents like the Lagos de Covadonga.

What can you see from the summit?+

The viewpoint at the top offers a clear view of the Picos de Europa on one side and the Cantabrian coast on the other, a rare 360-degree panorama for such a short climb.

Other nearby spots