One of the few climbs in Europe that will let you about 1800 meters up in one go! This long relentless challenge of a climb starts just on the edge of the resort of Puerto de la Cruz and grinds its way up the cliff side main road. Then up a very steep few kilometres to the busy town of Orotava which, at near 500 meters altitude, is already a serious climb. When you’re here the toughest part of the climb is behind you, but it’s here where you start the official Strava segment for Teide with about 28km of ruthless climbing to go! This side of Tenerife gets a much damper climate than the popular southern side, so it's got a more European feel with the trees displaying autumn colours early on. At about the halfway mark you will ride into the National park with the lava fields and pine forests. The climb will end without a cool down at El Portillo.