Coll de l'Erola

Overview

Coll de l'Erola is a category 3 climb that stretches 10.4 km and averages a gentle 3.67%. It begins low, at just 16 m above sea level, and tops out at 399 m, giving a net elevation gain of 383 m. That modest average makes it a climb of rhythm rather than raw suffering: there is no wall to survive, only a long, steady grade to settle into and hold. With a maximum pitch of 7.72%, the hardest moment never crosses into truly savage territory, but over 10.4 km the accumulated effort is real. This is a climb you ride with your head as much as your legs.

How the Gradient Unfolds

The defining feature here is the gap between the 3.67% average and the 7.72% maximum. That spread tells you the road is not uniform — it leans through stretches noticeably shallower than the mean, then stiffens toward its steepest ramp near 7.72%. Interestingly, the total ascent of 364 m sits below the 383 m net gain, meaning the profile trends almost entirely upward with little or no descending relief along the way. In practice that means very few chances to freewheel and recover; the climb keeps asking for pressure on the pedals from the 16 m base to the 399 m summit. Expect the easier lower slopes to lull you before the gradient firms up on the steepest section.

Pacing Notes

On a climb this long and this steady, pacing is everything. Anchor your effort to your FTP and resist the temptation to attack the shallow early kilometres — you will need that headroom when the grade tips toward 7.72%. Aim to hold a controlled tempo just below threshold across the full 10.4 km, letting the shallower sections restore a little without ever coasting. If you are unsure of your threshold number, run the numbers through the FTP estimator before you plan your effort. A rider who paces the first two-thirds patiently will feel strong over the top; one who burns matches early will fade as the 383 m of climbing adds up.

Gearing

The 3.67% average does not demand extreme gearing, but the 7.72% maximum and the sheer 10.4 km length argue for a comfortable spread. A compact 34-tooth inner chainring paired with a 34×32 low gear covers most riders well, keeping cadence high through the steepest ramp. If you prefer to spin, or you are carrying fatigue into the climb, a 34×34 gives you an extra margin to sit and turn the pedals smoothly rather than grinding. Either setup lets you protect your legs across the long middle section and still have something in reserve for the final push to 399 m.

Summary

Coll de l'Erola rewards patience and smooth pacing over brute force. Ride within yourself on the shallow lower slopes, respect the 7.72% pitch, and let the 383 m of gain come to you.

Length: 10.4 km
Average gradient: 3.67%
Max gradient: 7.72%
Start: 16 m
Summit: 399 m
Net gain: 383 m
Total ascent: 364 m
Category: 3