4.5
(144)
1,591
riders
124
rides
Touring cycling around Carcabuey offers routes through the subbética region of Andalusia, characterized by its undulating terrain and olive groves. The area features a mix of historic towns, natural springs, and occasional tunnels, providing varied landscapes for cyclists. Elevation changes are common, with routes often including significant climbs and descents.
Last updated: July 5, 2026
18
riders
70.1km
04:50
1,090m
1,080m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
12
riders
28.0km
01:54
460m
460m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Sign up for free
14
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
12
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
8
riders
33.0km
02:21
590m
590m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
The Zuheros Viaduct crosses the embedded bed of the Bailón River. It has a length of 104 meters resolved into two lateral sections of 31.5 meters and a central section of 41.0 meters. Its structure is metallic and is very similar to that of the Guadajoz River Viaduct. It seems that both projects were drawn up by the same engineers, Alessandri and Delaperrière.
9
0
Zuheros is one of the most beautiful villages in Andalusia and is picturesquely situated in the mountains of the Sierra Subbética. The rugged karst rocks of the Sierra Subbética form a spectacular backdrop around Zuheros. The Vía Verde del Aceite in particular offers impressive views over the mountains and valleys. The landscape is characterized by olive groves, Mediterranean vegetation and dramatic rock formations.
3
0
El Castillo de Zuheros is a historic fortress in the small municipality of Zuheros. The castle sits spectacularly on a rock and has become a landmark in the region. The castle's origins date back to the Moors in the 9th century. It was strategically built on a limestone cliff to control and defend the region. Its location made it almost impregnable. The viaduct is a historic remnant of the old railway line and offers an elevated platform with unobstructed views of the surrounding landscapes. The section near Zuheros is particularly spectacular as the viaduct crosses a gorge through which the Bailón River flows. From here, Zuheros Castle rises majestically above the village, embedded in a rock. The castle seems to be one with the landscape as it is integrated directly into the limestone. The view of Zuheros Castle from the viaduct is a perfect example of the unique combination of nature and history that characterizes the Córdoba region. It is a moment that makes every bike ride along the Vía Verde unforgettable.
9
0
From Zuheros Lucena is about 90 minutes by bike, it's on the same Via Verde as Zuheros.
2
0
The Doña Mencía station is the only one of the stations that we will find along the nature trail, built on one floor. A few meters from the passenger building and on the same side of the road, there is a building that has been rehabilitated as a bicycle center. This is the old freight dock of the station. The goods were located on open-air docks or other covered docks, depending on their economic value or characteristics. The closed docks consisted of open roof naves, with a small office for the clerk who was responsible for the delivery notes. On one side, the wagons were loaded or unloaded, while on the other side, the vehicles that arrived by road did so. In order to protect the goods during loading and unloading, these buildings were designed with a gable roof that ends in two large lateral overhangs.
9
0
Impression of the Greenway and view of Zuheros. @Kermit: Lucena however, goes a lot further.
8
1
The Zuheros viaduct crosses the embedded bed of the Bailón River. It has a length of 104 metres. Its structure is made of metal and is very similar to that of the Guadajoz River viaduct. A few metres away is the old Zuheros stop, a small building, very sober and functional. This building, smaller than the station, allowed the entry and exit of goods and passengers. A cobblestone in front of the façade served as a platform. From here you have a good view of the castle.
10
0
"Zuheros a beautiful place". Zuheros is an enchanting village in the province of Córdoba, Andalusia. Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Sierra Subbética, Zuheros offers breathtaking views and a rustic charm that is hard to match. The village is famous for its castle, Castillo de Zuheros, which sits dramatically on a clifftop overlooking the surrounding olive groves. The narrow streets lined with whitewashed houses, picturesque squares and historic buildings give Zuheros a timeless appeal.
8
0
There are over 120 touring cycling routes in the Carcabuey area, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. The region is known for its undulating terrain and olive groves, providing a scenic backdrop for your rides.
Yes, while many routes are challenging, there are a few easier options. The area offers 6 routes classified as easy, which are great for those new to touring cycling or looking for a more relaxed ride. These routes typically feature less elevation gain and shorter distances.
The terrain around Carcabuey is characterized by its undulating nature, with routes often including significant climbs and descents. You'll cycle through extensive olive groves, historic towns, and past natural springs. Some routes may also feature tunnels, adding to the varied landscape of the Subbética region of Andalusia.
Many of the touring cycling routes in Carcabuey are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the difficult route Plantío Tunnel – Steam locomotive - Mikado loop from Priego de Córdoba is a 70.1 km circular tour, and the Fuente Barea – Carcabuey Castle loop from Priego de Córdoba is a shorter 28.0 km loop.
Carcabuey is well-suited for experienced touring cyclists, with 93 routes classified as difficult. A notable challenging option is the Carcabuey Castle – Castle of Priego de Córdoba loop from Priego de Córdoba, which covers 64.7 km and features significant elevation changes through historic castles and rolling hills.
The routes often pass by significant historical and natural sites. You can explore castles like Carcabuey Castle or Zuheros Castle. Natural attractions include Fuente del Río, the Bat Cave, and the Chorreras de la Fuenseca waterfall, as well as the impressive limestone formations and caves in the Bailón Canyon.
The best seasons for touring cycling in Carcabuey are typically spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these periods, the weather is generally milder, with pleasant temperatures and less intense heat than the summer months, making for more comfortable rides through the region's varied landscapes.
Route durations vary significantly based on distance and difficulty. Shorter, easier routes might take a couple of hours, while more challenging and longer routes, like the 70.1 km Plantío Tunnel – Steam locomotive - Mikado loop from Priego de Córdoba, can take around 4 hours and 50 minutes. Always check the estimated duration for your chosen route.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 100 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse scenery, which includes historic castles, rolling hills, and natural springs, as well as the well-maintained network of routes that cater to various ability levels.
Yes, the undulating terrain of Carcabuey provides numerous opportunities for scenic views. Many routes offer panoramic vistas of the olive groves and the surrounding Subbética region. Keep an eye out for viewpoints, especially around elevated sections and near historical sites like the Views of Zuheros Castle from the viaduct.
Given the undulating terrain and potential for significant elevation changes, it's advisable to pack appropriate cycling gear, including layers for varying temperatures, sufficient water, and snacks. Sun protection is also crucial, especially during sunnier months. A repair kit and navigation tools are always recommended for longer tours.
Yes, several routes connect to or start from Priego de Córdoba, a nearby historic town. For instance, the route Castle of Priego de Córdoba – Carcabuey Castle loop from Villa Turística de Priego is a 36.3 km difficult tour that links these two significant locations, offering a chance to explore both areas.


Browse the best Cycling routes in other regions.