Is the road to Bola del Mundo paved?
Spain, europe
3.1 km
2,265 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, thrill-seekers, picture this: Bola del Mundo, or "Ball of the World," a seriously epic peak straddling Madrid and Segovia, Spain. You're talking 2,265 meters (7,431 feet) high!
The road? It's paved, but don't expect smooth asphalt. It's rough concrete, so hold on tight. Fully paved since '09, so that's something!
Starting from the well-known Puerto de Navacerrada, the climb is a mere 3.1 kilometers (just under 2 miles). Don't let the short distance fool you!
Heads up: summit access is usually good in the summer. Winter? Could be a different story. Snow can shut things down quick. Also, private vehicles may not always be allowed due to how narrow and steep things get.
Once you make it to the top, you'll find it's antenna city, broadcasting signals all over the place.
Now for the fun part: this climb is BRUTAL. We're talking gradients maxing out at 23%! The ascent from Puerto de Navacerrada gains a hefty 361 meters, averaging over 11% incline. There are ramps of 16% right at the start, and again after about a kilometer. Then BAM, the 23% kicker hits you just before the summit. Even grand tour winner Alberto Contador called it "very difficult, dangerous," and steeper than some insane climbs in the area! He admitted he rarely rides it, and he lives there! Get ready for an unforgettable workout with some killer views!
Road Details
- Country
- Spain
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 3.1 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,265 m
- Difficulty
- hard
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