Is the road to Puerto del Tremedal paved?

Okay, picture this: you're cruising through central Spain, Ávila province to be exact, in the heart of Castile and León. You're headed up Puerto del Tremedal, a mountain pass that tops out at 1,642m (5,387ft). Trust me, it's a classic climb, especially if you're into cycling!

This pass is nestled in the western Sierra de Gredos mountains, giving you killer views over the Tormes valley. The landscape is all raw granite and windswept broom—totally dramatic. Fair warning though, this spot gets hit hard by winter weather. Think snow, ice, the whole nine yards, so check conditions before you go. They sometimes close it down!

The road itself? Paved, but keep your eyes peeled! It's pretty narrow and twisty in places. The whole route stretches for about 20.2 km (12.55 miles), winding its way from north to southeast between a few small villages. Any car can handle it, but black ice is a real possibility in the shadier bends during fall and winter.

Cyclists LOVE this climb, and for good reason. It’s been a feature in major pro races. Starting in Becedas, you'll gain 543 meters in elevation, with an average gradient of 5.7%. Don't let that average fool you, though – there are some seriously steep sections, some hitting a whopping 13.6%! Throw in some wind at the summit, and you've got a real challenge on your hands. The descent towards La Carrera is a blast, with hairpin turns and clear views over the Ávila plateau. Highly recommended!