Ordino-Arcalis Bike Climb | Cycling the Andorran Pyrenees

Andorra Ordino-Arcalis

Ordino-Arcalis Bike Climb - PJAMM Cycling

6.2

FIETS

11.2 mi

DISTANCE

3,138 ft

GAINED

ELEVATION GAINED

5.2 %

AVG. GRADE

AVG. GRADIENT

FULL CLIMB STATS

Page Contributor(s): Erwan Treguier, Brittany, France

INTRO

This one of, if not the, most famous of all Andorran bike climbs. The Tour de France and Vuelta have visited this climb which begins in Ordino and finishes at the Arcalis sector ski station. Ordino-Arcalis was featured in the 1997, 2009 and 2016 Tour de France and the Vuelta a España in 2001, 2005 and 2007.

Average grade is 4.5% (5.2% climb only). 43% of the climb is at 0-5% grade and 50% at 5-10%. The steepest 500 meters is 9.2% and steepest kilometer 8.5%.

See more details and tools regarding this climb's grade via the “Profile Tool” button above.

Roadway: As one would expect of a major road in the richest country in the world, the route to Arcalis is pristine with a narrow to no shoulder throughout the climb - less shoulder higher in the climb.

Traffic: This depends upon when you leave. Since the first half of the climb is near and through towns, we recommend you do this climb early on a weekend - traffic can be moderate to heavy, but is quite manageable on the weekend early.

Tunnel: There is a short tunnel at kilometer 1.5 and a 300 meter tunnel at 7-8% grade beginning at kilometer 2. There is a narrow bike lane through the tunnel but bring taillights and consider a headlight as well.

Parking: There are many public paid parking lots in Les Escales wheer the climb begins - the 2 closest are 350 meters north (Map). Here is a map of all parking in Les Escales.

Bring lights for the 2 tunnels on this route.

Before heading out on any cycling adventure check out our Things to Bring on a Cycling Trip and use our interactive check list to ensure you don't forget anything.

Use the “Routes in Area” button on the menu bar above to see other bike climbs in this area. This is also a nice route that includes Arcalis, Port de Cabus and Port d'Arinsal - PJAMM full Route.