Coll de la Gallina (1,910 m) is one of pro cycling's most iconic climbs. 12 km at 8% average with 20% ramps make it a proper legs-and-head test.
Coll de la Gallina is a modern classic of La Vuelta a España with legendary stage finishes since 2012. It has crowned Purito Rodríguez, Alberto Contador, Chris Froome, Simon Yates, Miguel Ángel López and Primož Roglič. In 2023 Sepp Kuss sealed his historic overall GC win here.
The climb starts gently from Sant Julià de Lòria (900 m) on the CS-110. The first 6 km let you warm up at 5-7%, but from Aixirivall it gets serious: sustained 9-10% for 4 km. The final 2 km are the most feared: 15-20% ramps, especially in the infamous "pine bend".
May to October. June and September offer the best balance: mild temperatures (15-22°C at the top), few crowds and stable weather. Avoid 12pm-4pm in July-August (excessive heat at the base).
We recommend a road bike with 11-32 or 11-34 cassette. See "Bike recommendations" above.
Between 1h00-1h45 depending on level and pace. E-bike shaves 30-45 min vs regular times.
No, this route needs prior experience (hard difficulty). Consider softer routes like La Rabassa.
Viladomat Rental pickup points in La Massana, Grandvalira and Ordino Arcalís. Book online for Fast-Lane at the counter.
Good coverage on 80% of the route. High-altitude sections may have gaps. Carry an offline map (Komoot, Strava).
