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Yemma gouraya from Béjaïa: what you need to know

Everything about cycling up Yemma gouraya from Béjaïa

Yemma gouraya is a climb of 6.3 kilometers (hors catégorie). Yemma gouraya tops out at 493 m above sea level. It is located in Béjaïa, Béjaïa, Algérie ⵍⵣⵣⴰⵢⴻⵔ الجزائر. The average gradient is 7.8% with a maximum of 15.7%. The climb has 488 meters of elevation gain.

Elevation profile

Elevation profile

Climb statistics

Hors catégorie
Difficulty score: 625 (Very hard)
Altitude
493 m
Distance
6.3 km
Avg. gradient
7.8 %
Max gradient
15.7 %
Elevation gain
488 m
Steepest section: 15.7% (km 1.0)
Tips

Difficulty breakdown: This HC climb is a sustained effort with a demanding average gradient of 7.8% over 6.3 km. The difficulty lies in its variations, notably a very steep kilometre at 12% between 1.0 and 1.5 km and a 11% section between 4.5 and 5.0 km, which are the key crux points.

Tips for pacing the effort:

1. Managing the start: The first part is gradual (5%-9%). Use it to find your rhythm without going into the red before the 12% ramp.

2. Preparing for the two crux sections: Ease off the pace slightly before the 12% section (km 1-1.5) and the 11% section (km 4.5-5.0) so you tackle them with something left in the tank.

3. Recovering on the easier stretches: The 5%-7% sections (like between 2.5-3.0 km) are opportunities to ease the pressure a little and recover.

About the climbs to this summit

According to the cyclists who have climbed it, the ascent of Yemma Gouraya is an experience that is both grueling and unforgettable. The climb is described as hard, steep and long, demanding good lungs and a solid level of fitness, with about 30 minutes of intense effort to reach the summit at 660 meters of elevation. Many recommend bringing water and being prepared for the effort.

The payoff, however, is worth the suffering. Riders agree on a breathtaking, panoramic view over the whole city of Béjaïa and the Mediterranean Sea, a scenery that is "breathtaking" in the truest sense and makes every pedal stroke worth it. The clean air and the feeling of being "above the clouds" add to the magic of the place.

Cyclists do mention one thing to watch out for: the road is described as narrow in some sections. Stay alert, especially as you approach the top. The condition of the road surface is not specifically detailed, but the emphasis is on the need to pay attention.

The atmosphere is unique, with monkeys along the roadside adding a special charm to the climb. On the downside, many riders complain about one black spot: litter and plastic bottles dumped on the sides of the road, which spoils the natural scenery.

Despite the difficulty and the cleanliness issues, riders sum up the overall experience as awesome and a must-do. For those who love a challenge and spectacular scenery, Yemma Gouraya remains a must-ride climb that leaves a lasting impression.

Estimated times

6.3 km • 488 m D+

Leisure 1h 40min
3.8 km/h 350 m/h
Regular 1h 05min
5.8 km/h 550 m/h
Trained 45min
8.4 km/h 800 m/h
Climber 30min
12.6 km/h 1100 m/h
Pro 20min
18.8 km/h 1600 m/h

VAM: average climbing speed, based on elevation gain

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