Coll de la Gallina Loop

This loop is considered difficult, demanding very good fitness. The climb from Sant Julià de Lòria is approximately 11.4 to 12.2 km long with over 1000 meters of elevation gain and an average gradient of 8.4% to 9.1%. You'll encounter numerous pitches above 15%, with some sections reaching an 'inhuman' 18-20%.

The road surface on the Coll de la Gallina is generally in excellent condition, often described as having 'perfect tarmac,' especially after resurfacing for cycling events. The ascent involves consistently high gradients and winding roads through fir trees. The descent, particularly through the sanctuary side, features technical hairpin turns.

As you cycle this route, you'll pass the iconic Coll de la Gallina mountain pass itself. The descent also takes you past the scenic Sanctuary of Canòlic Viewpoint, offering breathtaking panoramas.

The loop typically starts from Sant Julià de Lòria. You should be able to find parking facilities within the town to begin your ride. Given the minimal traffic on the climb itself, parking in the town provides a convenient starting point.

No, this route is categorized as 'difficult' and requires 'very good fitness.' With sustained steep gradients and technical descents, it is not recommended for beginner road cyclists.

The best time to cycle the Coll de la Gallina Loop is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to October) when the weather is more stable and the mountain passes are clear of snow. Always check local weather conditions before heading out, as mountain weather can change rapidly.

Yes, the route partially overlaps with sections of other trails. Notably, it covers significant portions of the [CIMA AN02] Coll de la Gallina * Fontaneda and [CIMA AN02] Coll de la Gallina * Aixovall / Bixessarri routes. Smaller sections also coincide with the GRP La volta a Andorra and El Camí IT1TR5 El Camí Capçaler: de Salzes a Balaguer.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to cycle the Coll de la Gallina Loop. The roads are public and freely accessible.

As this is a challenging road cycling route with significant traffic (albeit minimal for a mountain pass), it is generally not suitable or safe for dogs to accompany cyclists on the road itself. It's best to leave your furry friends at home for this particular adventure.

While the very summit might be a slight anticlimax in terms of panoramic views, the overall climb offers magnificent and magical scenery. You'll be treated to breathtaking panoramas of Andorra and the surrounding Pyrenees, with the road winding through picturesque fir trees, especially beautiful on the lower slopes.

The Coll de la Gallina is legendary due to its inclusion in prestigious professional races like La Vuelta a España, where it gained a reputation for being exceptionally challenging and 'broke the legs' of many contenders. Its relentless steepness and high altitude (1910 meters) contribute to its formidable status.