Puerto de San Glorio (Portilla)

Climb Description

Puerto de San Glorio is a regular feature in the Vuelta a España, although it is usually climbed from Potes in the Cantabria region. The climb is the highest in the zone around the Picos de Europa Natural Park and is an important pass in the region; not just for humans, but also for the local bear population. Don't worry though, they are very timid and there is almost no chance that you will ever come across one of them.

At the top of the climb, it is possible to turn off and continue climbing towards Mirador de Llesba - an extra 2km with some quite steep gradients. At this mirador there is an impressive statue of a brown bear.

San Glorio itself is an easy climb from the west. The scenery is pleasant along the valley for the most part, before you begin a series of long, looping hairpins close to the summit. The descent down the other side into Cantabria is spectacular and one of the most enjoyable in the region.

Puerto de San Glorio is open throughout the year depending on weather. There is normally snow around from November through to April (indeed, there are controversial plans to build a ski resort near the top of the pass); in these months, whether or not you can cycle depends how recently the road has been cleared.

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