Grottes de beni aad is a climb of 13.8 kilometers (category 1). Grottes de beni aad tops out at 1,126 m above sea level. It is located in El M'dig, تلمسان ⵜⵍⵎⵙⴰⵏ, Algérie ⵍⵣⵣⴰⵢⴻⵔ الجزائر. The average gradient is 3.7% with a maximum of 12.7%. The climb has 514 meters of elevation gain.
Difficulty breakdown: This 13.8 km climb with 514 m of elevation gain averages 3.7%, which makes it demanding without being extreme. The km 0.0-1.0 section at 6% sets the tone right from the gun, before a series of rolling sections between 1% and 5%. The real decider comes in the final part, from km 10.0-11.0 to km 13.0-13.8, where the gradient bounces between 6% and 8%. The Category 1 rating is justified mainly by that accumulation of efforts in the closing stretch.
Tips for pacing yourself:
1. Set your pace from km 0.0-1.0 Start at a controlled tempo so you don't blow up early on the 6% gradient of the first kilometre.
2. Recover on km 5.0-6.0 This flat 0% section is ideal for eating, drinking and spinning the legs out before what's coming next.
3. Prepare for the finish from km 10.0-11.0 Keep a steady cadence and choose the right gears through the 8% of km 11.0-12.0 so you still have something left in the tank for the finish.
According to riders who have climbed it, the road to Beni Add Cave is a real challenge. It's described as tough, twisty and at very high altitude, with tight switchbacks that demand constant attention. The approach is a climb in its own right, best left to seasoned cyclists and experienced drivers.
The effort is nonetheless richly rewarded. The scenery on the way up is described as magnificent, with unbroken views over the mountains of the Tlemcen region. The climb leads to one of the largest caves in Africa, a natural wonder whose geological formations, some 65,000 years old, leave visitors speechless.
Riders point out that the site is well set up at the top, with an organised parking area. It's a chance to cool down after the effort, as the cave stays fresh and constant at 13°C all year round, which is very welcome after a long climb in the sun.
One point to watch, mentioned by some, is the cave closure between noon and 1:30 pm. It's therefore essential to plan your arrival time carefully so you don't find the doors shut after all that climbing.
Despite the beauty of the site, some reviews lament the lack of tour guides on site to enrich the visit. That said, the overall experience is described as unforgettable, a ride destination that is both a sporting and cultural highlight and sticks in the mind.
13.8 km • 514 m D+
VAM: average climbing speed, based on elevation gain
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