Cycling The Valley of the Tears - Gran Canaria

The Valley of the Tears in Gran Canaria is often described as the hardest cycling climb in Europe — and in this video, I take on the full 100km endurance ride across one of the island’s most brutal and beautiful routes. Starting from sea level and climbing relentlessly through the mountains of Gran Canaria, this ride features extreme gradients, remote volcanic landscapes, and some of the toughest sustained climbing you’ll find anywhere in Europe. With ramps hitting double-digit percentages and very little recovery, the Valley of the Tears is a true test of strength, pacing and mental resilience. Gran Canaria has become a mecca for road cycling, attracting professionals and amateurs alike thanks to its year-round weather, world-class climbs and dramatic scenery. This route is not just physically demanding — it’s an unforgettable cycling experience that showcases why the island is considered one of the best cycling destinations in the world. In this video you’ll see: The full 100km Gran Canaria cycling route The infamous Valley of the Tears climb Elevation, gradients and real-world riding conditions How this climb compares to other legendary European climbs The mental and physical challenge of riding Europe’s hardest route Whether you’re planning a Gran Canaria cycling holiday, training for a big event, or just curious about the hardest bike rides in Europe, this video gives an honest look at what it takes to conquer the Valley of the Tears. 📍 Location: Gran Canaria, Canary Islands 🚴 Route: Valley of the Tears 📏 Distance: 100km ⛰️ Difficulty: Extreme Strava Activity and route:   / strava   If you enjoy cycling challenges, endurance rides and epic mountain climbs, don’t forget to like, subscribe and comment — let me know if you’d take this ride on yourself. Follow me on Strava:   / strava   Follow me on Instagram:   / samkinnearcycling