Valdezcaray and San Millán de la Cogolla Loop

This is a difficult mountain bike route, requiring very good fitness and advanced riding skills. The terrain is varied and demanding, with strong climbs and exacting paths. Riders should be prepared for technical sections, potentially rated around STS S3-S6, and may need to push their bikes in some parts.

You'll encounter a diverse and demanding terrain, including wide dirt tracks, narrow singletracks, and sections through pine and beech forests. The route features significant climbs and descents, some of which are through barrancos (ravines) and arroyos (streams). You can also look forward to some rewarding 'flowy descents' after strenuous ascents.

The route is approximately 55.8 km long with over 1800 meters of elevation gain. On average, it takes around 5 hours and 30 minutes to complete, but this can vary significantly based on your fitness level and riding pace.

The route offers several notable features. You'll pass by the Bonicaparra Shelter, the historic Cueva del Santo (Sancti Emiliani), and the natural monument of Mostajo of the Cárdenas River. The trail also provides spectacular views from the higher points in the Sierra de la Demanda, transitioning from spring vineyards to rugged mountain landscapes.

The best time to ride this trail is generally during the spring and autumn months when temperatures are milder and the scenery is vibrant. Spring offers lush vineyards, while autumn brings beautiful fall colors to the forests. Summer can be very hot, and winter may present snow and ice at higher altitudes, making the trail impassable or significantly more challenging.

No, there are generally no specific permits or entrance fees required to mountain bike this route in the Sierra de la Demanda. However, always respect local regulations and private property, especially when passing through agricultural areas or near villages.

While dogs are generally allowed on trails in this region, it's important to keep them on a leash, especially in areas with livestock or wildlife. Given the route's length, difficulty, and varied terrain, ensure your dog is fit enough for such a demanding ride and that you carry enough water for both of you.

Specific parking information for the exact trailhead isn't detailed, but you can typically find parking in or near the villages of Valdezcaray or San Millán de la Cogolla. Look for designated parking areas or consult local maps for suitable starting points that offer parking facilities.

Yes, this route briefly intersects with several other paths. You'll find sections that overlap with trails like Sierras Riojanas, Altos Valles Ibéricos, and the Camiño Francés (Rutas alternativas). It also crosses parts of the Pista a San Lorenzo and the Sendero de las tres fuentes.

Given the trail's difficulty and length, you should bring plenty of water, energy snacks, a repair kit for your bike (including spare tubes), a first-aid kit, and appropriate clothing layers for changing mountain weather. A GPS device or a fully charged phone with the komoot app is highly recommended for navigation.

While the trail itself is remote, you can find cafes, restaurants, and accommodation options in nearby towns such as Valdezcaray, Ezcaray, or San Millán de la Cogolla. These towns serve as good starting or ending points for your ride and offer amenities for pre- or post-ride refreshments.