Average rate of increase: 11.7%

Col Saint-roch

There are very few truly steep climbs around Houffalize. The Saint-Roch is a definite exception to this rule. This explosive climb shoots up out of the village between the houses in a brutal fashion. In Houffalize, follow the road toward Clervaux and, after the gas station, turn right onto the road that’s already visibly steep. A sign warns of gradients of 14%, but the reality is even steeper than that. 

Right from the start, it’s clear that this wall shows no mercy. Winding through the houses, the road climbs upward in gentle curves with brutal steepness. You’ll keep surprising yourself as another steep section pops up after every gentle curve. As you leave the last houses of Houffalize behind, the Saint-Roch remains steep. But very gradually, it gets easier. In just 900 meters, this climb can completely wear you out.