Mont Hermon is a climb of 31.2 kilometers (hors catégorie). Mont Hermon tops out at 1,980 m above sea level. It is located in מועצה אזורית גליל עליון, מחוז הצפון, ישראל. The average gradient is 6.0% with a maximum of 17.7%. The climb has 1878 meters of elevation gain.
Difficulty breakdown: A long (31.2 km) and demanding climb with an average gradient of 6%. The difficulty lies in its uneven profile, alternating between sections at 1% and brutal stretches at 8-9%, culminating in a very nasty finish (gradients of 11-12% over the last 3 km). The descent section (KM 25-26) offers a brief respite before the final push.
Pacing tips:
1. Settle into your rhythm from the start: The first kilometers are moderate (3-6%). Use them to find a sustainable rhythm without blowing up.
2. Anticipate the gradient changes: Get your gearing sorted before the steep sections (KM 8-10, 12, 17-19, 23-24) to keep a steady cadence and save your legs.
3. Save something for the finale: The last 3 km (11-12%) are seriously brutal. Conserve energy on the flatter parts (KM 22-23, 26-27) so you arrive at the end with what you need.
According to cyclists' accounts, the climb up Mount Hermon is a one-of-a-kind ride in Israel, mainly for its breathtaking scenery. The road grinds up through arid terrain before opening onto jaw-dropping panoramic views over Israel, Syria and Lebanon. Even in summer, the air up high is cool and crisp, a welcome break from the heat.
The ride depends heavily on the season. In winter, riders report seeing snow, a rare sight in the region, but it can come with very cold conditions, with sub-zero temperatures. In summer, the summit is clear of snow, but the views are still spectacular. Riders stress that it's essential to check conditions before setting out, as the access road can be closed in extreme weather.
The atmosphere at the top is described as unique, shaped by the military presence in this sensitive border area. Riders mention that access to the highest point is sometimes restricted for security reasons. The road itself is said to be very busy, with heavy traffic of cars and tour buses, which can take away from the quiet and peace of the climb.
Despite the traffic, the climb is a rewarding challenge. Those who reach the summit talk about a real sense of accomplishment, heightened by the bitter cold and the stunning view. It's a climb that stays with you, both for its one-of-a-kind geography and for its unusual historical and political context.
31.2 km • 1878 m D+
VAM: average climbing speed, based on elevation gain
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