La Pola-Gamoniteiru
- La Pola
The Gamoniteiru (1770 m) is one of the most emblematic peaks of the Sierra del Aramo, together with the Angliru (1573 m). The climb from La Pola has a cumulative difference in altitude of some 1500 metres over 15.1 kilometres, making it a very demanding event on a par with the colossal peaks of the Giro or the Tour.
The first 9 kilometres share the route with the ascent to the Collada de La Cobertoria. In this initial section, the average gradient is around 9.7%, with some sections exceeding 11%, all in an environment dominated by dense beech and oak forests.
Approximately one kilometre before reaching the Alto de La Cobertoria, a crossroads indicates the turn-off to the summit of Gamoniteiru. From this point onwards, the road narrows to become an asphalted track, and the route becomes more winding. The gradient increases considerably, reaching over 10% for most of the remaining part of the route.
The last kilometres are the toughest, with ramps reaching 15% and even 17% at the end. The landscape changes radically in this area, the tree vegetation disappears, giving way to a high mountain environment dominated by limestone. Once at the top, the effort is rewarded by the impressive panoramic views that are obtained, covering the Nalón Basin and the Quirós Valley.
We should point out that it is usual to first climb La Cobertoria before attacking the Gamoniteiru ramps.
