Puerto de Velefique

Start Town Altitude Elevation Gain Length Gradient Difficulty Rating
Velefique 1,820m 953m 14.4 km 6.6% 1,168 *****








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Climb Description

Puerto de Velefique is the most iconic climb in the Almería region thanks to both its challenge and history in the Vuelta a Espña. The main part of the climb (igonring the plateau at the top) averages well over 8% for 12km, and is a serious test, even for strong riders.

But Velefique is not just about the challenge; it is also a great road for cycling. There are many hairpin bends, which provide fantastic views looking back down the mountain, and the excellent road surface and lack of traffic make it a real pleasure to ride.

The rocky scenery here is typical of a region which gets little rain (in fact, the town of Velefique is situated just a few kilometres from the only desert in Europe), with some dramatic rock formations catching the eye as you climb. In short, this is the best climb in the region, and one of the most enjoyable in all of Southern Spain, so it should be high on your list of rides if you visit the area.

The profile above also includes the short extension from Puerto de Velefique to Tetica de Bacares - a small peak with fantastic views in all directions. It is steep in places, but well worth putting in the extra effort. Puerto de Velefique is usually open throughout the year.


Puerto de Velefique (Velefique) -  Cycling Climb in Andalucia

The climb has many hairpin bends with great views






Roads & Traffic

The road is in excellent condition and there is very little traffic throughout the climb.


Puerto de Velefique Sign

This sign announces the start of the climb and tells you what to expect






Alternative Routes

Puerto de Velefique can also be climbed from the north. It is essentially the same as the climb to Tetica de Bacares from that side.




Nearby Climbs


Tetica de Bacares

Calar Alto

Puerto de Escullar





Cycling Holidays

Our Cabo de Gata cycling holiday can be adapted to include the climb to Puerto de Velefique. We can also arrange customized tours in the region. Please contact us to discuss the options.

You may also be interested in the links below to some of the other tours that we run in Andalucia. All of these can be modified to be made more challenging if you want to tackle some of the excellent climbs nearby.




Playa de Monsul - Cabo de Gata
Spanish FlagSpain

Self-Guided Cycling Holiday
Length: 6 Days
Level: Difficulty Easy to Medium
Price: from €1190 EUR
*Bike Hire Included

Alhambra Palace - Granada
Spanish FlagSpain

Guided Cycling Holiday
Length: 8 Days
Level: Difficulty Easy to Medium
Price: €1,880 EUR
*Bike Hire Included

Andalucia Sunflower Fields
Spanish FlagSpain

Self-Guided Cycling Holiday
Length: 8 Days
Level: Difficulty Medium to Challenging
Price: from €1,590 EUR
*Bike Hire Included