カンタブリア山脈の峠・トップ20

Upon reaching the summit, you don't arrive at a village or a tourist center, but rather at a kind of natural balcony overlooking the Lena mountain passes, which gives a strange feeling, as if you've stepped onto an empty stage. And on clear days, the wind is louder among the mountain passes than any car, because traffic is minimal.

For decades, La Cubilla was practically a ghost town: a road built to connect mining valleys, used more by livestock farmers and scattered trucks than by travelers. This lack of traffic left a remarkably clean route, free of curves, absurd straights, and modern widenings: pure mountain design from another era. That's why many cyclists say it "looks more like an Alpine pass than a Cantabrian one," with those giant limestone walls silently accompanying you.

One of the highest points on the French Way of the Camino de Santiago, located between Triacastela and Fonfría, already in the province of Lugo. At 1,335 meters above sea level, this peak offers a natural viewpoint overlooking the Galician mountains. The area is often exposed to wind and changeable weather, even in summer, but the views and the feeling of having reached a milestone more than compensate. There's a hostel/bar right at the summit, useful as a stopping point for pilgrims and cyclists. Dress warmly before reaching the top: the temperature here can drop suddenly, even on sunny days. If you're on a mountain bike or e-bike, make sure you have good traction on descents and that your brakes are checked: the descent towards Fonfría is fast and winding. It's a good place to rest and refill your water or coffee before continuing.

The La Cubilla mountain pass is located at an altitude of 1,683 meters, on the border between Asturias and León. Its rugged terrain and the beauty of its surroundings have earned it the title of stage finisher of the Vuelta a España, making it one of the most iconic climbs among cyclists.

Among the theories surrounding the unusual name of this mountain pass, one is the popular legend that some shepherdesses were caught in a blizzard and died in a nearby shelter. In any case, the pass is located in a stunning setting.

Gravel tires of at least 40mm!

After a beautiful gravel climb, you reach this plateau with stunning views (including the Picos de Europa in the distance). The path then continues for a long time at altitude, with many cows and horses. Take a look: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OgEcgF17RDw

Indeed, a beautiful spot with breathtaking views, both towards the Picos de Europa and other Cantabrian mountains. The (gravel) road there is also stunning; just take a look: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OgEcgF17RDw