Nestares, Alto del Bardal, Mataporquera, Matamorosa – circular route

This circular route is estimated to take around 3 hours and 3 minutes to complete by racebike. However, your actual time may vary depending on your fitness level and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

The route is primarily a road cycling experience, offering a mix of challenging terrain and scenic views in the Cantabrian Mountains. While mostly paved, some segments may be unpaved and difficult to navigate. A road bike with wider tires or a gravel bike might be advantageous for comfort and traction on varied surfaces.

You'll encounter several points of interest. The route passes by the Alto del Bardal, offering wonderful views. You might also spot The Okuda Bear. Towards the end of the route, potentially in Matamorosa, you can find the historic Aurora Fountain, the Hermitage of San Roque, and the Teatro Principal.

This route is classified as a "moderate road ride" and requires "good fitness" due to its length (approximately 63.2 kilometers) and elevation gain (around 770 meters). It might be challenging for absolute beginners, but experienced cyclists will find it rewarding.

The Cantabrian Mountains offer beautiful scenery, and generally, late spring, summer, and early autumn provide the most favorable weather conditions for cycling. These seasons typically offer milder temperatures and less chance of adverse weather, allowing you to fully enjoy the wonderful views and absolute tranquility.

While specific parking areas aren't detailed, as a circular route connecting Nestares, Mataporquera, and Matamorosa, you can typically find parking in or near any of these towns to begin your ride. Look for public parking facilities or suitable roadside spots in these villages.

This is a road cycling route that primarily uses public roads and some potentially unpaved segments. While there are no specific restrictions against dogs on a leash, it's generally not recommended to bring dogs on a racebike route of this nature due to safety concerns for both the rider and the animal, especially given the distance and potential traffic.

No, you do not need any special permits or have to pay an entrance fee to cycle this route. It utilizes public roads and paths in the Cantabrian region.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Asturian Way, Camino del Besaya: Cantabria, and Camino Olvidado (Bimón-Matamorisca), among others. This means you might encounter other hikers or cyclists on these shared segments.

The route passes through towns like Mataporquera and Matamorosa. These villages are likely to have local cafes, bars, or small shops where you can stop for refreshments, snacks, or a meal. It's always a good idea to carry some water and snacks with you, especially on longer rides.