Côte de Saint-Nicolas
Category 31.2 km
Distance
95 m
Elevation Gain
7.8%
Average Gradient
15%
Max Gradient
The gateway climb to the final act of Liège-Bastogne-Liège, situated on the outskirts of Liège itself as the race enters the finish straight. Saint-Nicolas climbs through a residential street — an unusual setting for a Monument climb, lined with houses and fans rather than forest. The 1.2km at 7.8% average includes a sharp 15% ramp that arrives just when legs already carrying 240km of racing have nothing left. In the amateur cycling world, Saint-Nicolas is used as a threshold test precisely because its short length and urban setting make it repeatable: turn around at the top, descent, and ascend again for interval sessions with perfect gradient consistency.
Pro Tip
In Liège-Bastogne-Liège week, the entire street is lined with Belgian cycling fans creating an atmosphere comparable only to Alpe d'Huez on a Tour stage. Arrive early and claim a spot on the 15% section for the best views. For riding, this is an excellent climb to combine with Côte de la Roche-aux-Faucons and La Redoute in a single loop of approximately 120km.
Part of
Cycling in Ardennes