Alto del Uvo

Overview

Alto del Uvo is a full hors catégorie ascent, and its dimensions leave no doubt about that rating. Over 21.1 km the road climbs from 987 m at the foot to a summit of 2547 m, a net elevation gain of 1560 m across a total ascent of 1561 m — meaning almost every metre of the climb points relentlessly upward, with barely a metre of respite folded in. The average gradient sits at 7.4%, but the headline figure is the 23.68% maximum, a ramp steep enough to reduce even strong climbers to a crawl. This is not a rhythm climb you dance up; it is a sustained, hour-plus effort where patience and gearing matter as much as fitness.

How the Gradient Unfolds

The maths tells the story of the climb's shape. A net gain of 1560 m over 21.1 km already implies a punishing overall slope, and with total ascent at 1561 m the descending sections are effectively nonexistent — you climb continuously from bottom to top. That 7.4% average is a blend, not a constant: to average 7.4% while touching 23.68%, long stretches must sit near or above the mean to offset the rare easier pitches. Expect the gradient to swing hard, with double-digit ramps arriving without warning and the 23.68% wall demanding a complete change of cadence and posture. The 1560 m of climbing packed into 21.1 km means the altitude at the 2547 m summit will also thin the air, compounding fatigue on the upper slopes.

Pacing Notes

On a climb this long, discipline beats bravado. Ride the opening kilometres well below your threshold — the 21.1 km distance and 1560 m of gain reward riders who arrive at the steepest ramps with something in reserve. Anchor your effort to your FTP and aim to hold a steady percentage of it on the 7.4% sections, then allow your power to spike briefly on the 23.68% pitches rather than trying to cap it. If you do not know your number, run the numbers first with the FTP estimator so you can set realistic targets for an effort that may exceed an hour. Fuel early and often; the summit at 2547 m is a long way from the 987 m start.

Gearing

Gearing is where Alto del Uvo is won or lost. With a 23.68% maximum and a 7.4% average sustained over 21.1 km, you want the widest range you can fit. A compact 34-tooth chainring paired with a 34×32 low is the sensible baseline for most riders, but on the 23.68% ramps a 34×34 will save your knees and let you keep the pedals turning instead of grinding to a halt. If your frame accepts an even larger cassette, take it — spinning a low gear up 1560 m of climbing is far more sustainable than muscling a bigger one.

Summary

Alto del Uvo is a true HC test: 21.1 km, 1560 m gained, and a 23.68% sting in the tail. Pace it conservatively, gear it generously, and respect the 2547 m summit.

Length: 21.1 km
Average gradient: 7.4%
Max gradient: 23.68%
Start: 987 m
Summit: 2547 m
Net gain: 1560 m
Total ascent: 1561 m
Category: HC