El Cordal (Pola de Lena)

Start Town Altitude Elevation Gain Length Gradient Difficulty Rating
Pola de Lena 798m 498m 5.5 km 9.0% 600 ****






El Cordal Cycling Profile

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Climb Description

El Cordal from Pola de Lena is a climb that suffers from being in the shadow (often quite literally) of the infamous Angliru. However, it is more than simple warm up, as many riders in the Vuelta a España have found out - particularly the steep section towards the top.

This is the more difficult side of the Cordal, but the side starting from La Vega is probably marginally more scenic. Both are pleasant and enjoyable to ride without being spectacular.

One of the best things about the Cordal is its vicinity to many other excellent climbs. Indeed, the town of Pola de Lena ranks alongside the likes of Luz Saint Sauveur and Bormio for its proximity to so many classic climbs.

El Cordal is usually open throughout the year.


El Cordal (Pola de Lena) -  Asturias Cycling Climb

The climb from Lena is mostly in trees, but the scenery opens up at the top






Roads & Traffic

The road is fully paved and is in good condition and there is little traffic on the climb throughout the year.




Alternative Routes

El Cordal can also be climbed from the north side; starting in La Vega. This is the easier side and is one that is rarely used in the Vuelta.





Nearby Climbs


Alto de la Mozqueta

Angliru

Coto Bello

La Cobertoria

Gamoniteiro

Puerto de Pajares

La Cubilla

Atlo de Naranco






Cycling Holidays

El Cordal is climbed on our Great Climbs of the Vuelta cycling holiday.

You can find out more information below about this and similar tours that we run in high mountains.




Picos de Europa National Park
Spanish FlagSpain

Self-Guided Cycling Holiday
Length: 8 Days
Level: Difficulty Medium to Challenging
Price: from €1,490 EUR
Lagos de Covadonga
Spanish FlagSpain

Self-Guided Cycling Holiday
Length: 8 Days
Level: Difficulty Challenging-Hard
Price: from €1,490 EUR
French FlagFrance

Self-Guided Cycling Holiday
Length: 8 Days
Level: Difficulty Challenging-Hard
Price: from €1,070 EUR