La Pandera is one of Andalucía's great cycling climbs. It has a road running right to the very peak of the mountain, affording the road cyclist an unusual 360 degree panorama from its summit. The road was constructed to provide access to a military base, which is now no longer in use. But, fortunately, the road remains open and it is possible to ride right up to the radar which marks the summit.
La Pandera has occasionally been described as southern Spain's answer to Mont Ventoux because of the challenging gradients, and also the similarities in the respective appearances towards the summit. However, there are
some significant differences between the two. Firstly, La Pandera is not as isolated as Ventoux.
Like Ventoux, it is the highest peak for a long way around, but the higher peaks of the Sierra Nevada mountains are clearly visible from the summit, as well as numerous smaller mountains. La Pandera does not quite have that same 'isolated giant' feel. Secondly, the character is slightly different
than Ventoux, which is notable for its consistently steep gradient of around 10% on the toughest part of the most famous Bedoin side. By contrast, La Pandera is very inconsistent on its upper slopes; the challenge comes in a more anaerobic form - punching up the sustained ramps of around 15%, rather than grinding for nearly an hour as is the
most efficient strategy on Ventoux.
What can be said about both Ventoux and La Pandera however, is that they are both tough climbs which offer an irresistable challenge for cyclists.
The climb from Valdepeñas is in many ways the classic route to the top. It is the shorter side, but has steeper gradients and very little respite once you start climbing. It is a very scenic route, particularly the upper slopes where
there are fantastic views across the Province of Jaén and looking into Granada.
La Pandera is nominally open throughout the year, although sporadic closures in winter are common during periods of snowfall. These rarely last long however, and it is one of the few non-ski resorts in Europe that allows a road cyclist to climb to such high altitude in the heart of winter.
The radio tower marks the top of the climb
Roads & Traffic
The road is in very good condition throughout most of the climb. On some sections of the upper slopes it is broken in places, and in the final kilometre there is some loose gravel on the road. Overall though, it still no problem to ride on a road bike.
There is very little traffic on the climb.
Signs warn you of the upcoming steep sections
Alternative Routes
La Pandera can also be climbed from the town of Los Villares. However, the final 9km from Los Villares (the most challenging part) are exactly the same as the climb from Valdepñas.
Our Seville to Granada cycling holiday can be extended to include the climb to La Pandera and other ascents nearby.
Below you can find links to this and some of the other mountainous tours that we run.
We can also
arrange customized tours in the Sierra Nevada mountains and surrounding area. If you would be interested in this, please contact us to discuss the options.
Spain
