Lagu Terciellu: Driving the brutal 11% Camín de La Poza in Asturias
Located in the southern part of the Principality of Asturias, in northern Spain, Lagu Terciellu is a high mountain lake at an elevation of 1,435m (4,708ft) above sea level. Situated within the Las Ubiñas-La Mesa Natural Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the road to the lake is a formidable challenge for off-roaders, known for its sustained verticality and breathtaking Cantabrian scenery.
| Road facts: Lagu Terciellu | |
|---|---|
| Location | Asturias, Spain (Las Ubiñas-La Mesa) |
| Elevation | 1,435 m (4,708 ft) |
| Length | 5.6 km (3.4 miles) |
| Elevation Gain | 634 m |
| Average Gradient | 11.32% |
Where is the road to Lagu Terciellu?
The road to the lake is a rugged mountain track officially known as Camín de La Poza. It starts from the small settlement of Las Vallinas. The route penetrates deep into the central area of the Cantabrian Mountains, climbing through limestone massifs and high-altitude pastures. The area is a land of great beauty, ideal for nature lovers, but the driver's focus must remain on the track due to the technical nature of the climb and the stunning but distracting scenery.
Is the road to Lagu Terciellu unpaved?
Yes, the road to the summit is totally unpaved, narrow, and very steep. A 4x4 vehicle with high ground clearance and low-range gearing is strictly required to navigate the Camín de La Poza. The surface consists of natural earth and loose limestone rock, which can be extremely slippery. Due to the high elevations and exposure, the road is subject to strong winds and rapid weather changes. During the ascent, you will be blown away by the raw beauty of the peaks, but the lack of safety barriers means there is no room for error on the narrowest sections.
How long is the road to Lagu Terciellu?
Starting from Las Vallinas, the drive is 5.6 km (3.4 miles) long. While the distance is relatively short, the climb is very demanding: over this stretch, the road tackles an elevation gain of 634 meters. This results in a brutal average gradient of 11.32%. This high percentage is relentless, with almost no sections for the engine or brakes to cool down. Maintaining constant traction on the 11% slope requires a steady foot and a capable vehicle, as any stop on the steepest unpaved ramps can make restarting the climb very difficult.
Is the road to Lagu Terciellu open in winter?
Technically, the road is open to traffic throughout the year, but it may be closed for short periods in winter during heavy snowfalls or extreme weather. At 1,435 meters, snow and ice can turn the steep 11.32% grade into an impassable slide. Even in good weather, wet conditions make for tough driving along the muddy sections of the track. Before attempting this demanding Asturian climb, ensure your vehicle is in top mechanical condition and check the local weather forecast for the Las Ubiñas-La Mesa area, as the weather can turn treacherous in minutes.
Pic: Carlos Gonzalez