Navacerrada is one of the most commonly used climbs in the Vuelta a España, set conveniently close to Madrid in the Sierra de Guadarrama mountains. Its proximity to the capital means that it is popular with cyclists; however, it is not one of our favourite climbs.
The main problem is the high volume of traffic throughout the climb; however, it is also nothing special in terms of scenery, with any views largely obscured by thick forest. The road is also very wide which makes it slightly soulless.
For all its faults though, the Navacerrada is popular and is an important climb in cycling history, so if you don't mind sharing the road with some traffic, by all means give it a go. If you do tackle the Navacerrada, then it is well worth turning left at the top and continuing the climb on the brutal slopes to Bola del Mundo.
Navacerrada is a ski resort and so the road is kept open throughout the year. However, bear in mind that the climb can get even busier with traffic during the winter than in the rest of the year!
The Navacerrada is not the most charming pass in the region
Roads & Traffic
The road surface is in good condition throughout.
There is quite a lot of traffic at times on the climb; including some trucks. Generally during weekdays it is OK for riding, but on weekends and holidays - particularly in either summer or the ski season - we would recommend avoiding the climb.
The climb begins from near to the royal palace in La Granja
Alternative Routes
Navacerrada can be climbed from the south, starting in the town of Collado Villalba.
It can also be reached from the north-east, via the Puerto de Cotos.
We don't currently run any tours in this part of Spain. 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 mountainous tours that we currently run elsewhere in Spain.
Spain
