The Brutal Climb to Peña Escrita in Granada with 27% Gradients

# Peña Escrita: Spain's Brutal Mountain Challenge

Ready for one of the most punishing climbs in Spain? Peña Escrita, nestled in Granada's stunning Tejeda Mountains, is basically the southern Spain answer to the legendary Angliru—and it absolutely lives up to the hype.

This beast of a road climbs 1,175m (3,854ft) and pushes cyclists and drivers to their limits with gradients hitting a jaw-dropping 27%. The 12.7km (7.89 miles) route starts from the A-7 highway and gains a staggering 1,301m of elevation, averaging a brutal 10.24% gradient throughout.

What you're dealing with is a fully paved road (though fair warning: some sections are pretty rough), incredibly narrow lanes, and hairpin turns that'll test your nerves. The route winds relentlessly through the mountains as it climbs, with the final couple of kilometers offering slightly easier terrain after the punishing ramps below.

Here's the catch: the road is closed for most of the year, so timing is crucial for a visit. But if you make it to the summit? You'll discover the remains of a quirky former zoo, and the views are absolutely incredible. Plus, if you're into paragliding, the peak is a known launching spot for some serious aerial adventures.

This isn't a casual Sunday drive—it's a legitimate test of endurance and skill. Bring your A-game.