A Scenic Paved Road to the Summit of Calar Alto in Andalusia
Spain, europe
32.4 km
2,168 m
moderate
Year-round
# Calar Alto Pass: A Sky-High Adventure in Southern Spain
Nestled in Almería's Sierra de Los Filabres mountains, Calar Alto is one seriously impressive high-altitude pass. We're talking 2,168 meters (7,113 feet) above sea level – high enough that the summit actually hosts a proper astronomical observatory. Pretty cool, right?
The route follows the AL4404 highway, stretching a solid 32.4 km (20.13 miles) from the town of Gérgal northward to Collado Venta Luisa. While the entire road is paved, don't expect a perfectly smooth ride – heavy winter snowfall has left its marks on stretches of tarmac over the years, creating some rough patches here and there.
What really gets your adrenaline pumping are the seriously steep sections. We're talking gradients that hit 10% in some places, so your legs will definitely feel this one if you're cycling, and your brakes will earn their keep if you're driving. The road winds through some stunning Andalusian mountain scenery, making every hairpin turn worth the effort.
If you're after jaw-dropping views, challenging terrain, and the bragging rights of reaching an astronomical observatory by road, Calar Alto delivers on all fronts. Just make sure your vehicle's in good shape and watch out for those dodgy road conditions, especially in winter!
Where is it?
A Scenic Paved Road to the Summit of Calar Alto in Andalusia is located in Spain (europe). Coordinates: 41.8751, -3.6015
Road Details
- Country
- Spain
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 32.4 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,168 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 41.8751, -3.6015
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