Collado Espina (San Roque)

Start Town Altitude Elevation Gain Length Gradient Difficulty Rating
San Roque de Riomiera 920m 560m 5.2 km 10.8% 924 ****






Collado Espina - San Roque - Cycling Profile

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Climb Description

Collado Espina from San Roque is a really picturesque climb; although you may not fully appreciate the stunning scenery while you are battling against its steep slopes. Set in the heart of the Collados de Asón Natural Park, this is one of our favourite climbs in the area. It is extremely isolated and tranquil, and is also easy to combine with several other enjoyable climbs in the area.

The climb has become one of the star climbs in recent editions of the Vuelta - where it is usually referred to as Los Machucos. Collado Espina is open throughout the year, subject to local weather.


Collado Espina from San Roque - Cantabria Cycling Climb

The scenery is open throughout much of the climb






Roads & Traffic

The road surface is in mixed condition. It is fully asphalted and passable on a road bike, but in some places it has become slightly rough and bumpy. There are also some short concrete sections to improve grip where the road becomes steep - these can be uncomfortable when descending.

There is very little traffic on the climb.




Alternative Routes

Collado Espina can also be climbed from the other side, starting in Bustablado.





Nearby Climbs


Puerto de la Sía

Picon del Fraile

El Caracol

Peña Cabarga






Cycling Holidays

We don't currently run any tours in this part of Cantabria. If you would be interested in customizing an itinerary to this region, please contact us and we would be happy to discuss the options.

You may also be interested in the links below to some of the holidays that we currently run nearby in Northern Spain.




Picos de Europa National Park
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Self-Guided Cycling Holiday
Length: 8 Days
Level: Difficulty Medium to Challenging
Price: from €1,490 EUR
Basque Mountains
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Self-Guided Cycling Holiday
Length: 7 Days
Level: Difficulty Easy to Medium
Price: from €1,480 EUR
Lagos de Covadonga
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Self-Guided Cycling Holiday
Length: 8 Days
Level: Difficulty Challenging-Hard
Price: from €1,490 EUR