Bratan Lake is a climb of 21.5 kilometers (hors catégorie). Bratan Lake tops out at 1,308 m above sea level. It is located in Penebel, Bali, Indonesia. The average gradient is 4.6% with a maximum of 16.2%. The climb has 983 meters of elevation gain.
Difficulty analysis: At 21.5 km, with 983 m of elevation gain and an average gradient of 4.6%, the Bratan Lake climb from Penebel Kelod is a beyond-category (HC) ascent that is decided over the duration. The first six kilometres, between 2% and 4%, let you settle into a steady rhythm, but the difficulty ramps up noticeably from km 9 to km 15, with gradients of 5 to 7%. The finale is the decisive climb: from km 16 to km 18, the gradient rises to 9% and then 12%, on a stretch that can blow up even the most tired legs.
Tips for pacing yourself:
1. Start conservatively. In the first kilometres, keep your effort controlled despite the easy gradients, and use the short descent from km 7 to km 8 (-3%) to recover for a few moments.
2. Manage the heart of the climb. Between km 9 and km 15, hold a steady rhythm and avoid accelerations, because the 5 to 7% sections come one after another and will eat into your legs.
3. Save energy for the finale. Reach km 16 with something left in the tank, choose a gear that's light enough, and stay seated on the 9% and 12% sections to keep your power going all the way to the top.
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.
21.5 km • 983 m D+
VAM: average climbing speed, based on elevation gain
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