Laklouk from قرطبون: what you need to know

Difficulty breakdown:

This climb is a brutal test thanks to its length (30.8 km) and its serious elevation gain (1955m). The average gradient of 6.3% is sustained, but the real challenge is how uneven the profile is. There are three particularly steep sections (8-9% grades) in the first 3 km, at km 11 and on the final part (km 22 to 30), broken up by easier stretches, even flat ones (km 20-21), that disrupt your rhythm.

Tips for managing your effort:

1. Pacing: Don't let the very steep opening kilometres catch you out. Start at a measured pace you can hold for the long haul. Use the 3-5% sections (km 8-12, 16, 19-20) to recover by easing off a bit without stopping pedalling.

2. Save something for the finale: The last third (from km 22) is a string of tough 7-8% ramps. Keep some physical and mental reserves for this decisive part, where the climb is at its most demanding.