Reaching the Cumbre del Sol is a demanding challenge although comforting when you achieve the beautiful views from up there. With slopes of up to 20%, it is also known as the "hardest kilometer" and was part of stage 2 of La Vuelta in 2019. A place to challenge yourself!

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Costa Velo

July 27, 2025

Road cycling

The climb to Cumbre del Sol / Puig de la Llorença starts a small distance from Benitachell, at the turn-off next to Mercadona (on the way to Moraira). It’s a short but brutal 4 km climb with ramps of 10–12% and pitches above 15%. At the summit, you’re rewarded with stunning views of the Mediterranean, Calpe, and even Ibiza. This climb is famous as a Vuelta a España stage finish, won by stars like Chris Froome and Tom Dumoulin.

Costa Velo

July 27, 2025

Road cycling

Want a slightly steadier start to Cumbre del Sol? Choose the other side, just outside Benitachell (on the road from/to Jávea). This side is still very tough, but the gradients are a bit more even. The final kilometre is identical to the famous Mercadona climb, with ramps above 15% and the same breathtaking summit view.

Nearby routes

Best routes near Ascent to Cumbre del Sol / Puig de la Llorença from La Mandarina

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#1.

Sierra de Bèrnia and Cumbre del Sol Loop

78.8km

04:31

1,420m

This difficult 48.9-mile road cycling route from Calpe to Port de Bernia includes the infamous "hardest km" climb.

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Informations

Distance 6.59 km

Uphill 390 m

Downhill 50 m

Weather

Tuesday 5 May

22°C

15°C

13 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 19.0 km/h

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Take Me There

Location: el Poble Nou de Benitatxell / Benitachell, Marquesado, Alicante, Spain

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Ascent to Cumbre del Sol / Puig de la Llorença from La Mandarina

#1.

Sierra de Bèrnia and Cumbre del Sol Loop

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