A tricky scenic road to Alto de Trobaniello

# Alto de Trobaniello: A Hidden Gem in Asturias

If you're looking for a seriously challenging climb that'll test both your car and your nerve, Alto de Trobaniello in Spain's Asturian mountains is calling your name. This mountain pass sits at 1,625 meters (5,331 feet) and offers an unforgettable ride through some stunning terrain.

Starting from Santa Marina, you're looking at a 17-kilometer ascent with a whopping 1,068 meters of elevation gain—that averages out to 6.3%, but trust me, it gets gnarlier than that. The first stretch is deceptively chill: about 6 kilometers of smooth asphalt through charming mountain villages at a manageable 4.8% gradient. It's the kind of warm-up that lulls you into a false sense of security.

Then things get real. After 5 kilometers, the pavement gives way to unpaved terrain dotted with concrete sections. The road climbs relentlessly, with sections hitting over 15% gradient. Brace yourself for the brutal middle section—between kilometers 12.5 and 13.5 (or about 3.5 kilometers from the summit), the average gradient hits a punishing 12.7%. This is where you'll really feel it.

The good news? The unsurfaced surface is rough enough for cars to handle—just be prepared for a gravel and concrete experience rather than smooth tarmac. You'll trade comfort for an incredibly rewarding journey through Asturian mountain scenery that most casual travelers never experience.