From Quintanar de la Sierra to the Lagunas de Neila it’s 8.8 miles (14.1 km) at an average of 5.6%: 2,602 ft (793 m) of climbing to about 6,129 ft (1,868 m). CyclingCols and altimetrias.net agree on the elevation gain (2,602 ft / 793 m) and nearly on the length (8.8 and 9.1 miles / 14.1 and 14.7 km); the top is at 6,129 or 6,161 ft (1,868 or 1,878 m), depending on the source.
What the climb is like
You climb the BU-822, a narrow road through pine forest with lots of shade. The first 6.2 miles (10 km) are gentle, with sections of 3-6%. Around mile 4.3 (km 7) is the spring at the source of the Arlanza river. The last 2.5 miles (4 km) are what count: ramps above 15% on the bends by the wooden gate, and the grade doesn’t ease until the parking lot at the lakes, where the road ends.
We don’t publish a section-by-section profile because the sources don’t break it down the same way.
History
The Vuelta a España has finished here only once: in 1998, won by José María “El Chava” Jiménez. Where the Lagunas de Neila really are a classic is the Vuelta a Burgos, which has finished here since 1985 and, since 2008, almost always on the final stage: the overall has often been decided on these ramps.
The lakes are glacial in origin and form a natural park of about 15,540 acres (6,290 hectares), designated in 2008.
When to go, water and traffic
The road can close for snow in winter; go from May to October. There are fountains in the square in Quintanar and around mile 4.3 (km 7), and a bar at the top. On weekdays hardly any cars come through; on weekends there are hikers, cyclists and mountain bikers. Other sides: from Villavelayo (12.0-12.2 miles / 19.3-19.7 km).
What gearing to use
For the final ramps, a 34x30 or 34x32. At 3 W/kg and 159 lb (72 kg), you’ll ride about 3.7 mph (6 km/h) on 15%: with a 34x32 that’s about 46 rpm. The first part is fine in middle gears. Compare options in the gear calculator.
Tips
- Ride easy for the first 6.2 miles (10 km): the last 2.5 miles (4 km) decide your time.
- Drink at the Arlanza spring if it’s hot.
- At the top, it’s worth walking to the lakes.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to climb the Lagunas de Neila from Quintanar?
A 159 lb (72 kg) rider on a 21 lb (9.5 kg) bike takes about 58 min at 3 W/kg (216 W), 1 h 08 min at 2.5 W/kg and 45 min at 4 W/kg. Work out your own time with your weight and power in the calculator on this page.
Where is the hardest part of the Lagunas de Neila?
In the last 2.5 miles (4 km), with ramps above 15% on the bends by the wooden gate.
When did the Vuelta finish at the Lagunas de Neila?
Only once, in 1998, won by José María Jiménez. The Vuelta a Burgos finishes here almost every year.