Alto Turia and Collado de las Vigas Loop

This challenging road cycling route, covering approximately 67.2 kilometers, typically takes about 3 hours and 20 minutes to complete. This duration assumes a very good fitness level due to the significant elevation gain.

This route is classified as a difficult road cycling experience, requiring a very good fitness level. While it features mostly well-paved surfaces, be prepared for some unpaved and difficult segments where you might need to push your bike. The route includes a substantial elevation gain of over 1,030 meters.

The route offers diverse and scenic views, traversing areas along the Turia River with natural landscapes, mountains, and Mediterranean vegetation. You'll pass through forests, canyons, and pine forests, particularly in the Alto Turia landscape. Key highlights include the historic Old Town of Moya with its 13th-century castle ruins, the Collado de las Vigas, and a Viewpoint Over the Alto Turia Canyon, offering stunning vistas.

While specific parking areas are not detailed, Santa Cruz de Moya serves as a common starting point for this circular route. You should be able to find suitable parking within the village, especially near the main access points or public areas, before beginning your ride.

The best time to cycle this route is generally from April to October. This period avoids the harsher mountain weather conditions that can occur outside these months, ensuring a more pleasant and safer cycling experience.

This route passes through the Parque Natural de la Puebla de San Miguel. Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required for cycling on established routes within the park. However, always adhere to local regulations, respect protected areas, and stay on designated paths to preserve the natural environment.

Yes, this route intersects with several other paths. You will find sections that overlap with official trails such as [CIMA CU03] Collado de las Vigas, Ruta del Turia y el Ebrón, Ruta del Talayón, and Ruta del Parque Natural de la Puebla de San Miguel, among others.

This route is primarily designed for road cycling, and while dogs are generally welcome in many natural areas, it's important to consider the challenging terrain and traffic on road sections. If you bring a dog, ensure it is well-trained, on a leash, and capable of keeping pace or being transported safely, especially on the unpaved segments.

Santa Cruz de Moya and other small villages along or near the route may offer limited options for cafes, bars, or small shops where you can resupply with water and snacks. It's advisable to carry sufficient provisions for the entire ride, especially given the route's length and difficulty.

Given the route's difficulty and length, you should bring a well-maintained race bike, appropriate cycling gear, plenty of water, energy snacks, a repair kit (including spare tubes and a pump), a first-aid kit, and navigation tools. Sun protection and layers of clothing are also recommended due to varying conditions.

Yes, the "Río Túria y el Castillo de Moya — circular por Santa Cruz de Moya" is a circular route, meaning it starts and ends in the same general area, typically Santa Cruz de Moya, allowing you to return to your starting point without needing additional transport.