The best traffic-free bike rides around La Horcajada
4.8
(14)
138
riders
16
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes around La Horcajada are situated in the province of Ávila, Spain, nestled between the Sierra de Gredos mountain range and the Sierras de Malpartida and Collado del Mirón. The terrain is shaped by the Corneja and Tormes rivers, flowing through fertile valleys and surrounded by extensive woodlands of pine and oak. This region offers a varied landscape for touring cyclists, featuring both significant elevation gains in the mountains and flatter sections along riverbeds.
Best no…
Last updated: May 21, 2026
4.5
(4)
8
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
13
riders
54.8km
04:03
1,250m
1,250m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.7
(3)
5
riders
20.1km
01:29
410m
410m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
7
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
7
riders
35.1km
02:21
570m
570m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The Old Bridge of El Barco de Ávila, also known as the Medieval Bridge, is one of the most representative symbols of this town in Ávila. It crosses the Tormes River and connects the historic center with the old communication route to Castile and León. Although its current structure is medieval (12th–13th centuries), it is believed to have been built on Roman foundations.
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The Old Bridge of El Barco de Ávila, also known as the Medieval Bridge, is one of the most representative symbols of this town in Ávila. It crosses the Tormes River and connects the historic center with the old communication route to Castile and León. Although its current structure is medieval (12th–13th centuries), it is believed to have been built on Roman foundations.
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Valdecorneja Castle, located in El Barco de Ávila, is a medieval gem that dominates the Tormes River valley from a strategic, elevated position. It is one of the most emblematic monuments in the province of Ávila and a must-see for history and architecture lovers.
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Visiting El Barco de Ávila is an excellent option for a cultural and natural getaway at any time of year. This medieval town, located in the Alto Tormes region and at the gateway to the Sierra de Gredos, combines history, architecture, landscapes, and gastronomy in a charming way.
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Built on a Vettonian fort that was destroyed by the Romans, it was built in the 12th century and rebuilt in the 14th century. After being conquered from the Arabs, King Alfonso VI donated the Lordship of Valdecorneja to his daughter and son-in-law, Ramon de Borgoña, for repopulation. At the beginning of the 14th century, Henry II of Trastamara donated these lands to the House of Alba in the person of Don García Álvarez de Toledo. The House of Alba was responsible for building the castle. Grand Duke Don Fernando Álvarez de Toledo had his second residence here. During the Peninsular War, it suffered significant deterioration, not only due to the war itself but also because its stones were used to build private homes. The old interior arcade (which apparently formed a double gallery on the inside of the tower) was dismantled and rebuilt to provide arcades for the town hall building, located in the Plaza Mayor. Between 1851 and 1904, the interior of the castle grounds was used as a municipal cemetery, which further deteriorated its condition. Today, the exterior is in perfect condition after restorations carried out in 1985 and 2004, preserving its original perimeter. The pavement and part of the keep were repaired. Access to the monument is free, and visitors can see the well located in the center of the courtyard, a vaulted cistern excavated in the subsoil rock, and the ancient windows and oriel windows with double pointed arches. The courtyard is used for certain cultural events held in this town.
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At this point on the road, the combination of vegetation, tranquility due to the lack of traffic and the views captivate us with the charm of the Sierra de Gredos.
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El Barco de Ávila is a town located in the northern foothills of the Sierra de Gredos, in the valley of the Tormes River. It has various heritage sites such as: the Castle, its walls and the Romanesque bridge, as well as its hermitages, the clock house and the prison building. Worthy of a tourist visit before or after an adventure.
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Beautiful valley that exists in this area near the Barco de Ávila in the passage of the Río Tormes through this area south of the town. The area, surrounded by forests and fields at the bottom of the valley allows us to see the surrounding mountains!
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available around La Horcajada?
There are 15 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around La Horcajada. These routes offer a variety of experiences, from moderate rides to more challenging ascents, all designed to keep you away from heavy vehicle traffic.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in La Horcajada?
The best time to visit La Horcajada for touring cycling is typically in late spring and early summer. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the landscapes are particularly vibrant, with the yellow 'piorno' (mountain broom) blooming across the hillsides. Autumn also offers beautiful scenery and comfortable temperatures.
Are there any easy no-traffic touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
While many routes in the Sierra de Gredos area are challenging, there are options for a more relaxed experience. The region offers routes with less strenuous options, such as those found in the Valle del Corneja, which are mostly flat. For example, the Castillo de Valdecorneja, puente del Tormes y Puerto de Umbrías — circular desde El Barco de Ávila route is classified as moderate, offering a good balance for those seeking a less intense ride.
What kind of terrain can I expect on these no-traffic touring cycling routes?
The terrain around La Horcajada is diverse. You can expect a mix of sweeping roads with significant elevation gains, especially closer to the Sierra de Gredos, and also flatter sections along river valleys like the Corneja and Tormes. Most routes are on well-paved surfaces, suitable for touring bikes.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along the no-traffic touring cycling routes?
The routes offer breathtaking scenery, including rugged mountains, deep valleys, and extensive woodlands. You can encounter historical sites like the Valdecorneja Castle and the charming town of El Barco de Ávila. The Tormes Bridge and Ponseca Bridge are also notable points of interest along the rivers.
Are there any circular no-traffic touring cycling routes available?
Yes, many of the no-traffic touring cycling routes around La Horcajada are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the Valdecorneja Castle – El Barco de Ávila loop from Bohoyo, which offers a scenic circular journey.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in La Horcajada?
The no-traffic touring cycling routes around La Horcajada are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.77 out of 5 stars. Cyclists often praise the stunning natural beauty, the challenging yet rewarding climbs, and the peaceful, low-traffic roads that make for an immersive touring experience.
Are there options for more challenging no-traffic touring cycling routes?
Absolutely. The Sierra de Gredos is renowned for its demanding ascents and significant elevation gains, making it a favored training ground for experienced cyclists. Routes like the El Barco de Ávila – Valdecorneja Castle loop from San Lorenzo de Tormes are classified as difficult, offering a rigorous workout for those seeking a challenge.
Is parking available at the trailheads for these routes?
While specific trailhead parking information varies by route, towns like La Horcajada and El Barco de Ávila, which serve as common starting points, generally offer parking facilities. It's advisable to check local parking options in the specific village you plan to start your ride from.
Can I find accommodation or cafes suitable for cyclists in La Horcajada or nearby towns?
La Horcajada and nearby towns like El Barco de Ávila retain a traditional charm and offer various amenities. You can find local cafes and accommodation options that cater to visitors, including cyclists. These towns provide good spots to refuel and rest during or after your ride.
What is the typical distance and elevation gain for these no-traffic touring routes?
The routes vary significantly in length and elevation. You can find routes ranging from around 20 km, like the Playa fluvial de Tormellas – Puerto de Umbrías loop from Navatejares with about 410m of elevation gain, to longer, more challenging rides exceeding 50 km with over 1200m of climbing, such as the El Barco de Ávila – Valdecorneja Castle loop from San Lorenzo de Tormes.
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