Alto de La Gloria

Overview

Alto de La Gloria is one of those climbs that rewards rhythm over fireworks. Over 8.9 km it lifts you from a start elevation of 221 m to a summit of 545 m, a net gain of 324 m. The average gradient sits at a friendly 3.65%, and the steepest ramp you will meet tops out at just 4.98%. That combination earns it a category 3 rating — challenging enough to register in the legs, but never so severe that it forces you into survival mode. This is a climb you ride, not one you merely endure.

How the Gradient Unfolds

The defining feature of Alto de La Gloria is its consistency. With an average of 3.65% and a maximum of only 4.98%, the road never doubles the effort on you. There are no walls, no lurching pitches that snap the chain of your cadence. Instead the gradient breathes within a narrow band, drifting a little below the average on the shallower stretches and easing toward that 4.98% ceiling on the firmer sections. Because the total ascent is 307 m across the full 8.9 km — slightly less than the 324 m net gain, hinting at the odd flat or fractional dip — the road effectively climbs in one long, patient sweep rather than a stack of distinct ramps.

Pacing Notes

A climb this even is a pacing dream. Because the gradient rarely strays from 3.65%, you can hold a single sustainable power number almost from base to summit. Target something around your FTP — or a touch below it if you have a long day ahead — and let the steady grade do the metering for you. If you are not sure what your threshold is, run the numbers through the FTP estimator before you commit to a target. On the shallower opening, resist the urge to bank time; the 4.98% pinches later are where a smooth, unspent rider quietly gains ground. Spin the whole 8.9 km at one honest effort and you will crest fresher than anyone who surged.

Gearing

With a maximum gradient of 4.98% and an average of 3.65%, Alto de La Gloria does not demand exotic gearing. For most riders a compact chainring paired with a mid-range cassette is plenty. A 34×32 bottom gear will spin the steepest 4.98% ramp comfortably at a fluid cadence, and it keeps you honest on the longer 3.65% drags where staying seated and steady matters most. If your legs are carrying fatigue, or you simply prefer to twiddle, a 34×34 buys a little extra insurance for the 8.9 km without ever feeling like overkill. Either setup lets you ride within yourself rather than muscling the pedals.

Summary

Alto de La Gloria is a rhythm climb in the truest sense: 8.9 km of near-uniform grade that rewards patience, smooth pacing, and a relaxed cadence. Pick one sustainable effort, choose gearing that lets you spin, and enjoy a category 3 ascent that feels earned rather than punishing.

Length: 8.9 km
Average gradient: 3.65%
Max gradient: 4.98%
Start: 221 m
Summit: 545 m
Net gain: 324 m
Total ascent: 307 m
Category: 3