Pico de las Nieves climb from Tejeda

Where it goes

You set off from Tejeda, right in the centre of Gran Canaria, and climb by road towards the Cruz de Tejeda. On this first part you have Roque Nublo and Roque Bentayga in view, the two silhouettes of the caldera. From the Cruz you carry on along the summit ridge, between Canary pine and broom, up to the Pico de las Nieves, at 1,938 m, the highest point on the island. It's 15.7 km and 964 m of elevation gain, all on tarmac.

Where it bites

The average gradient is 6.1 %, sustained almost the whole way, with tight bends that break your rhythm. The hardest kilometre comes towards the end, averaging 13.4 %: it's a serious ramp, so get there with gears to spare. The last stretch along the summit is the most exposed to the wind.

Where to stop

In Tejeda and at the Cruz de Tejeda you'll find bars for a coffee and to fill your bottles. On the summit there's nothing: take water and something to eat. At the top, the Pozo de las Nieves viewpoint is the reward, with half the island at your feet when the sky is clear.

When to go

You can ride it all year round, and that's the beauty of Gran Canaria. But at the top it's much cooler than on the coast: take a windproof jacket even if it's hot down below. On the odd winter day there can be ice, and fog comes in fast; if the summit is wrapped in cloud, think twice.

Getting there

There's no train on Gran Canaria. The most practical option is to drive to Tejeda and park at the entrance to the village, or link the climb into a longer ride from the coast if you're feeling strong.