BikeCompanion
Get the app

Le tombeau de la chretienne from Douar Adel: what you need to know

Everything about cycling up Le tombeau de la chretienne from Douar Adel

Le tombeau de la chretienne is a climb of 3.6 kilometers (category 3). Le tombeau de la chretienne tops out at 248 m above sea level. It is located in Douar Adel, Tipaza, Algérie ⵍⵣⵣⴰⵢⴻⵔ الجزائر. The average gradient is 5.4% with a maximum of 10.1%. The climb has 190 meters of elevation gain.

Elevation profile

Elevation profile

Climb statistics

category 3
Difficulty score: 117 (Moderate)
Altitude
248 m
Distance
3.6 km
Avg. gradient
5.4 %
Max gradient
10.1 %
Elevation gain
190 m
Steepest section: 10.1% (km 0.6)
Tips

Difficulty breakdown: This category 3 climb has a contrasting profile. The difficulty is concentrated in three sections: the first kilometer (6-7%), a steep stretch at km 3.0-3.5 (8%), and a much easier central part around the 2nd kilometer (2-4%). This unevenness makes pacing crucial.

Pacing tips:

1. Start easy so you don't "blow up" on the opening 7%, especially since the gradient eases off afterwards.

2. Use the flattest section (KM 2.0-2.5 at 2%) to recover and bring your heart rate down before the demanding finale.

3. Save something for the last 500m at 8%, the steepest section of the climb.

About the climbs to this summit

Cyclists who have climbed the hill to the Royal Mausoleum of Mauretania are unanimous: the summit finish gives a jaw-dropping panoramic view. On one side, the Mediterranean Sea and the Bay of Tipaza; on the other, the green fields of the Mitidja and the Atlas Mountains. This unique setting, combined with the imposing presence of the ancient tomb, more than rewards the effort of the climb.

Riders' experiences are mixed, however, when it comes to the condition of the site and the facilities. While the monument itself is described as impressive and well preserved, many reports lament the lack of upkeep around the site, the presence of litter, and the glaring absence of information panels to explain the rich history of the place. Vandalism (graffiti) on the ancient stones is also frequently pointed out.

Entry to the site is paid (around 120 DA for adults), and secure parking is available. Cyclists appreciate the café-restaurant with a terrace offering a great view, ideal for a break before the descent. One point of frustration comes up often: the visit is limited to the outside, as access to the interior of the mausoleum is closed to the public, which leaves some feeling a bit short-changed.

Despite these reservations, the climb to this site, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, remains a powerful experience. Cyclists feel a real sense of escape and a connection with history as they grind up toward this millennia-old monument, a silent witness to the Numidian and Roman civilizations that shaped the region.

Estimated times

3.5 km • 190 m D+

Leisure 34min
6.3 km/h 350 m/h
Regular 22min
9.7 km/h 550 m/h
Trained 15min
14.2 km/h 800 m/h
Climber 11min
19.4 km/h 1100 m/h
Pro 7min
30.4 km/h 1600 m/h

VAM: average climbing speed, based on elevation gain

Get the app

BikeCompanion App Screenshot BikeCompanion App Screenshot

Join thousands of cycling fans! Plan your rides, record your performance, track your progress and discover the finest climbs.
Live climb profile to pace your effort all the way to the top.