Côte de La Redoute

Côte de La Redoute is one of the best-known climbs in Belgian Wallonia, tied above all to the Liège–Bastogne–Liège cycling classic. For cycling fans it is close to a pilgrimage site, and for anyone exploring the Ardennes it is an interesting stop where sport, history and hill country meet.

Where is Côte de La Redoute?

The climb lies in the province of Liège, near Remouchamps, a village in the municipality of Aywaille. The road runs close to the village of Fontin, which belongs to the municipality of Esneux. The surroundings are typical Ardennes terrain south of Liège: wooded slopes, river valleys and small settlements.

The climb also follows an access road to the E25 motorway level with Remouchamps, so it is easy to find and sits close to the region's main transport routes.

How hard is the climb?

The ascent is about 1.6 km long with an average gradient of roughly 9.5%. That sounds modest next to Alpine passes, but in classic racing what matters is not only length but where the climb falls in the race. Cycling reports describe the start just after Remouchamps as fairly gentle, with the road getting steeper the closer you get to the top; the toughest ramps reach around 17%.

Where does the name come from?

The name refers to a redoubt, a small field fortification, linked to the battle of Sprimont. That 18th-century battle took place in this area, and the village of Fontin lies on the climb. The name is a reminder of the region's turbulent past, even if today the place is known mostly for racing.

Why do cyclists talk about it?

Côte de La Redoute is one of the key climbs of Liège–Bastogne–Liège, one of cycling's five Monuments, first held in 1892. The climb itself joined the route later, in 1975 according to cycling accounts. Over the decades it has become a place where the first serious attacks often come and where the balance of the peloton is decided. A well-known example is Remco Evenepoel's attack here in 2022, after which the Belgian rode on alone to the finish.

The area is also the home region of cyclist Philippe Gilbert, which strengthens its local bond with the sport.

Frequently asked questions

Can I ride up Côte de La Redoute by bike? Yes, it is an ordinary public road. A reasonably fit rider will manage it, but the final part is clearly steep, so low gearing helps.

How long is it and how steep? About 1.6 km at an average gradient of around 9.5%.

Where exactly is it? In Wallonia, near Remouchamps (municipality of Aywaille), along an access road to the E25 motorway. Approximate coordinates are 50.491 N, 5.704 E.

When is the best time to visit? April is the most atmospheric month, when Liège–Bastogne–Liège is held and fans line the roadside. Outside race time the place is quiet and good for trying the climb at your own pace.

Is it worth visiting if I don't cycle? Mainly for cycling and race-history enthusiasts. Other visitors can combine it with the other Ardennes sights around Remouchamps.