From Granada, Pico Veleta offers one of the longest and highest climbs in Europe, topping out on the continent’s highest paved road.
A monumental climb from Granada
From Granada, at around 700 m, it’s nearly 46 km for over 1,800 m of elevation gain up to the barrier that limits motorised access, at around 2,500 m. The average gradient stays moderate over the first half before steepening noticeably in the second part, high in the mountains.
Europe’s road ceiling
Beyond the barrier, the road continues as a track up to the summit of Veleta at over 3,300 m, a section reserved for the fittest cyclists and hikers when conditions allow, making this one of the highest climbs reachable by bike on the continent.
How to approach the ride
This is a long outing that demands careful pacing of effort, hydration and food, with the second half of the climb taking place at high altitude where the air noticeably thins.
When to climb it
June to September, once the road has been fully cleared of snow at altitude; check locally on the state of the track beyond the barrier before heading up.
Good to know
The Pradollano ski resort, passed midway through the climb, offers a welcome resupply point before tackling the most demanding stretch toward the barrier and beyond.
