Calar Alto (Serón)

Start Town	Altitude	Elevation Gain	Length	Gradient	Difficulty	Rating
Serón	2,158m	1,461m	29.2 km	5.0%	1,049	****

Climb Description

This route is one of five ways to climb to the astronomical observatories at Calar Alto, and it is by far the easiest one from the north side. The climb begins in the village of Serón and follows a new and wide road all the way to the top.

This is not the most scenic of the various ways to Calar Alto, as much of the climb is in forest without great views, but it is still a really nice road for cycling. The gradients are pleasant and the road surface is in superb condition (which also makes this side a great option for descending).

The Vuelta a España visits these roads every now and again, with Calar Alto, and the nearby climb to Puerto de Velefique undoubtedly being the marquee ascents in this part of south-eastern Spain.

Calar Alto is usually open throughout the year. However, snow is possible in the winter and it can get cold at the top in January and February. The heat can also be a problem in July and August, with temperatures in excess of 35°C and very little shade to be found.

Roads & Traffic

The surface is in very good condition and there is very little traffic on the road throughout the climb.

Alternative Routes

There is another, harder route beginning in Serón and passing through the village of Las Menas. Or, if you prefer, a few kilometres to the east there is an even harder route to Calar Alto starting from Tíjola.

On the southern side of the mountain, there are routes the top beginning near to Gérgal and Aulago.

Nearby Climbs

Puerto de Velefique

Tetica de Bacares

Puerto de Escullar

Cycling Holidays

Our Cabo de Gata cycling holiday can be adapted to include the climb to Calar Alto. 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.