Sierra de Alcarama – Cornago Loop

This road cycling route is approximately 123.7 km long and typically takes around 6 hours and 12 minutes to complete. This duration can vary based on your fitness level and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

Yes, this is a circular road cycling route that takes you through the Sierra de San Cristóbal y Alcarama, passing by Cornago and Magaña.

While a specific trailhead isn't designated, you can typically find parking in or near the towns along the route, such as Cornago or Magaña, to begin your circular journey. It's advisable to check local parking regulations upon arrival.

The terrain is mountainous and varied, characterized by significant climbs and descents. You'll encounter the orography shaped by the Leza, Jubera, Cidacos, and Alhama rivers, with potential for over 2,000 meters of elevation gain. Roads in similar Spanish mountain regions can range from well-paved to more variable quality.

You can expect diverse and captivating natural beauty, including Mediterranean forests, ash groves along rivers, and dramatic crags and canyons. The route offers glimpses of traditional architecture in towns like Cornago and Magaña, and the region is known for its paleontological significance, with dinosaur footprints.

Along the route, you'll pass several interesting points, including the Church of Santa María, the challenging Puerto de Vallaroso, and the charming town of Cornago. You'll also encounter the Road leading to San Felices and enjoy Views of the Castillo de Magaña.

This route is rated as difficult. Given the mountainous terrain of the Biosphere Reserve and the significant elevation changes (over 2,000 meters of ascent), it requires good to very good fitness and experience with challenging road cycling.

The best time to cycle this route would generally be during spring or autumn when temperatures are milder. Summers can be hot, and winters may bring colder conditions and potential for snow at higher elevations, making cycling more challenging.

No, you do not typically need specific permits or pay an entrance fee to cycle through the Reserva de la Biosfera: Valles del Leza, Jubera, Cidacos, Alhama y Linares. However, always respect local regulations and conservation efforts within the reserve.

While the route itself is a road cycling path, and dogs are generally not suitable companions for such long and difficult rides, if you are stopping in towns or natural areas, it's important to keep dogs on a leash and adhere to local regulations within the Biosphere Reserve to protect wildlife.

Yes, as the route passes through towns like Cornago and Magaña, you should be able to find cafes, restaurants, or small shops to refuel and hydrate. It's always a good idea to carry sufficient water and snacks, especially between villages.

Yes, this route partially overlaps with other paths. You will encounter sections of the Sierras Riojanas and the Camino verde del Alhama, among others, for short stretches.