The best cycling routes around Calanda

The touring cycling routes around Calanda offer a diverse landscape. You'll encounter extensive coniferous forests, riverine vegetation, and wide moorlands. The region is situated within the foothills of the Iberian System, meaning routes can feature significant elevation changes, with some mountain ranges in the broader Teruel province reaching up to 2,000 meters. Secondary roads are generally well-paved and have low traffic, providing pleasant conditions for touring cyclists.

While Calanda offers a variety of touring cycling experiences, the routes listed in this guide are primarily rated as moderate or difficult. There are currently no routes specifically categorized as 'easy' in our selection. However, the region's low-traffic secondary roads can still be enjoyable for those looking for less strenuous rides, focusing on flatter sections where available.

Cyclists in Calanda can enjoy several natural and historical sights. The most prominent natural feature is the Calanda Reservoir, known for its striking turquoise waters and surrounding pine forests. You might also pass by historical sites such as the Castle of the Calatravos near Alcañiz, or the historic Los Arcos Aqueduct. The wider Teruel province also features charming medieval villages and Mudejar architecture.

Yes, several touring cycling routes around Calanda are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include the Alcañiz – Castle of the Calatravos loop from Torrecilla de Alcañiz, which passes a historical castle, and the Los Arcos Aqueduct – Castelserás loop from Calanda, leading through varied terrain and past the historic aqueduct.

Calanda and the Teruel province offer varied conditions throughout the year. For comfortable touring cycling, spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) are generally ideal, with pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summers can be hot, especially in July and August, while winters can be cold, particularly in higher elevations, though some routes may still be accessible.

Yes, for those interested in longer journeys, the broader province of Teruel is home to the **Via Verde de Ojos Negros**. This is Spain's longest greenway, offering a relatively gentle and scenic path through rolling hills, farmlands, and quaint villages, utilizing disused railway lines. While it starts in the city of Teruel, it provides an excellent long-distance option within the region.

The touring cycling routes in Calanda are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.25 stars from over 7 reviews. Cyclists often praise the tranquil reservoir views, the extensive pine forests, and the varied terrain of the Teruel province. The low traffic on secondary roads is also frequently appreciated, contributing to a peaceful cycling experience.

Absolutely. The region around Calanda, being part of the Iberian System, offers routes with demanding elevation gains. The broader Teruel province features mountain ranges up to 2,000 meters, providing opportunities for challenging climbs such as those leading to Puerto de San Rafael, Alto de Vivel, or Puerto de Cabigordo, which traverse varied landscapes from lush forests to high-mountain terrain.

Many routes pass through or near charming towns and villages. For instance, the Alcañiz – Castle of the Calatravos loop from Torrecilla de Alcañiz takes you close to Alcañiz, a town noted for its history. Another route, the Los Arcos Aqueduct – Castelserás loop from Calanda, brings you to Castelserás. These towns often offer cultural stops and opportunities to experience local life.

The touring cycling routes around Calanda vary in length and duration to suit different preferences. For example, the Alcañiz loop from Río Mezquín is about 17.5 miles (28.2 km) and takes approximately 2 hours 27 minutes. Longer routes, like the View of the Calanda Reservoir – Mas de las Matas loop from La Cañada de Verich / la Canyada de Beric, stretch to about 28.9 miles (46.6 km) and can take around 3 hours 24 minutes to complete.