Cruz de Paramillo from Mendoza via Caracoles de Villavicencio

What an absolutely fantastic monster of a climb. After driving out of Mendoza, it slowly begins to climb. First on a wide, dead straight road with good asphalt. Once we arrive at the "Caracoles de Villavicencio" the asphalt changes to gravel and the real climbing begins. What follows is a mile-long spectacle of a road that winds its way up through the most beautiful hairpin turns.

What adds to the spectacle is that you have to work your way up this nature reserve all by yourself. You will not encounter many other passers-by. Furthermore, during the climb there are several warnings about a high risk of encountering wildlife, including pumas, snakes and poisonous spiders. I fortunately did not encounter any of those; however, I did encounter llamas on several occasions. On top of the summit, a culpeo (Andean fox) was curiously looking at me to see what kind of madman had cycled up there.

There is also a large cross and a small chapel at the top. And for the rest mainly a big void with beautiful views. One small disappointment: the Garmin just got stuck at an altitude below 3000 meters above sea level.

Pay attention! You won't encounter anything at all along the way, not even a mini kiosk to buy water. So take plenty of food and drink with you. And don't forget to bring spare parts and tools for your bike. Except for the occasional car, you won't be able to count on much help either. You won't have signal with your phone there either.