Once again, Asturias will host the high mountain stages of the 2021 edition of the Vuelta España.

On this occasion, the traditional ascent to the Covadonga Lakes and the premiere of the Alto del Gamoniteiro will be included. Unheard of in top-level cycling, this 15-kilometre pass with sections of up to 17% gradient will become part of the Asturian passes known worldwide for their toughness and spectacular nature, such as the Angliru, La Ventana or the aforementioned Lagos de Covadonga.

Located in the Sierra del Áramo, like the mythical Angliru, the Gamoniteiro is accessible for cycle touring from May to October when the winter restrictions and the snows have ceased. The AS-230 local road from Pola de Lena or Quirós leads to the Alto de la Cobertoria, from where the access road to the Gamoniteiro starts. There is very little vehicle traffic, which makes it possible to enjoy this demanding ascent while admiring the landscape of the central mountains of Asturias, characterised in this area by pastures, small sheepfolds, rocky areas and livestock huts. It is worth stopping to catch your breath at the viewpoint at the summit at an altitude of 1791m. From here you can make out the peaks of the Ubiñas Natural Park, Redes and even the central area of Asturias.

The choice of an unprecedented Asturian mountain pass as the queen stage of the Tour of Spain, such as the Gamoniteiro, only confirms the endless possibilities for cycle touring in the region. In addition to the "colossus" mentioned above, cycling enthusiasts can enjoy routes accessible to all levels throughout the length and breadth of Asturias. For example, not far from the Sierra del Áramo in the town of Proaza is the start of the Senda del Oso, a classic cycle touring route for all the family where the slopes give way to a relaxed route through forests and nature that follows the course of the river Trubia.