Bratan Lake is a climb of 31.1 kilometers (hors catégorie). Bratan Lake tops out at 1,308 m above sea level. It is located in Mengwi, Bali, Indonesia. The average gradient is 3.7% with a maximum of 10.8%. The climb has 1160 meters of elevation gain.
Climb analysis: This 31.1 km climb is long but moderate over its first two thirds, with gradients mostly between 2% and 4%. The real difficulty is concentrated in the last 10 km, where the gradient regularly hits 7% to 8%, finishing with a brutal 20% ramp over the final 130 m. Pacing is crucial because the climb gets noticeably harder toward the top.
Effort tips:
1. Pacing: Spin along at an easy endurance pace for the first 20 km to save your legs. Avoid overgearing on the false flats.
2. Prepare for the hard part: From km 21, be mentally and physically ready for a series of 7-8% sections. Keep a steady cadence and stay seated to conserve your muscles.
3. Save something for the finish: Keep some energy and enough speed in reserve to tackle the last kilometre, which tops out at a 20% ramp over 130 m and demands an explosive effort.
For cyclists who have climbed the roads up to Lake Beratan, the experience is first and foremost a sensory one. Riders describe a cool, often misty atmosphere, typical of the Bedugul highlands, which makes a welcome contrast with the heat of the Balinese coast. The feeling of clean air and the views over the surrounding mountains are frequently cited as the real motivation for the effort of the climb.
The scenery more than makes up for the legs burning on the way up. Riders rave about the stunning beauty of the lake, with the famous Pura Ulun Danu temple seeming to float on the water, especially early in the morning when the mist rolls over the place. This view, immortalized on the 50,000 rupiah banknote, is described as peaceful, almost mystical, and makes for a truly special moment of connection with nature.
Reaching the lake is a well-earned break. Riders mention grabbing a simple bowl of bakso or a hot coffee by the water's edge, at prices that stay reasonable for such a touristy spot. For those who want to take things a step further, a ride on a speedboat across the lake is often considered a must, offering an incredible perspective on the temple and the mountains.
Riders also note that the spot can get very crowded, especially around midday when the tour buses roll in. The unanimous advice is to set off early to enjoy the calm of the place and avoid the crowds and the likely queues for photos at the most iconic spots.
All in all, riding up the slopes to Lake Beratan is an adventure that stays with you. Between the physical effort, the radical change in climate and the reward of a rarely matched sense of tranquility in Bali, this climb is presented as an almost essential stop for cycling enthusiasts looking for authenticity and breathtaking scenery.
31.1 km • 1160 m D+
VAM: average climbing speed, based on elevation gain
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