The Inhumane Climb to Coll de Pradell in Catalonia, with 23% Ramps
Coll de Pradell is an extreme high mountain pass at an elevation of 1,732m (5,682ft) above sea level, located in the province of Barcelona, Spain. The climb is brutal, with 23% gradient sections.
Where is Coll de Pradell?
The pass is located north of Rasos de Peguera, in the autonomous community of Catalonia, in the northern part of the country, within the Cadí-Moixeró Natural Park.
Is the Road to Coll de Pradell Paved?
The road to the summit is fully paved, but the toughest part (400 meters) is concrete. The road surface is in very good condition.
Is the Road to Coll de Pradell Open in Winter?
Set high in the Pyrenees, the road is usually open from mid-April to November.
How Steep is the Road to Coll de Pradell?
Starting from the C-16 road, the elevation gain is 1,029 meters. The average gradient is 6.7%, and it’s 16 km long. It’s one of the true beasts of Spain and somewhat unique. The climb is simply terrible. The first 7.5 km average 5.3%, and then there's even a kilometre or so of descent. After this, the climb passes through Vallcebre, and then you have the final 6 km at an average gradient of 10.4%, with the final three kilometres including a couple of stretches of hormigón (concrete), with a maximum gradient of 23%.
Is Coll de Pradell Worth the Drive?
There’s actually an abandoned mine near the summit whose railways and trains have been restored for touristic use. The experience of using this road is very impressive. There is very little traffic on the climb. The drive offers stunning views of Pedraforca (a famous Catalan mountain with a fork shape).