Vitigudino to Castro de Yecla la Vieja Loop

The Castro Vetón de Yecla la Vieja – circular desde Vitigudino mountain bike route is estimated to take approximately 2 hours and 18 minutes to complete. This duration is for the full 31.7 km (19.7 mi) loop.

The terrain for this route, typical of the Salamanca province, can be diverse. You can expect bridle paths, old olive groves, and rural tracks. Near the historical site, there might be rocky or uneven sections. The route traverses the characteristic dehesa landscape with holm oaks.

The primary highlight is the impressive Vettonian Hillfort of Yecla la Vieja, an ancient Celtic settlement with well-preserved granite walls and petroglyphs. Inside the Castro, you'll find the 18th-century Ermita de la Virgen del Castillo. The route also offers scenic views of the dehesa landscape and is near the confluence of the Huebra River and Varlaña stream.

The route is rated as 'moderate' difficulty. While the broader region offers routes for various skill levels, this specific trail may include varying levels of challenge, potentially with some steep slopes or technical sections (known as 'trialeras'). Riders should have some mountain biking experience.

The best time to ride this trail is generally during spring and autumn when temperatures are milder. Summers can be very hot, and winters might bring colder, wetter conditions, making some sections more challenging.

Since the route is a circular one starting from Vitigudino, you would typically find parking within Vitigudino itself to begin your ride. Specific parking areas for the Castro are not detailed, but local parking in Vitigudino would be the starting point.

While specific regulations for dogs on this exact route are not provided, it's generally advisable to keep dogs on a leash, especially when passing through rural areas, near livestock, or within the archaeological site to protect both your pet and the local environment/wildlife.

There is no information indicating that permits or entrance fees are required to access the mountain bike route itself or the Vettonian Hillfort of Yecla la Vieja. Access to the archaeological site is generally open to the public.

Yes, the route incorporates sections of several official trails. You will ride along parts of the Camino de Guadramiro, Camino a Vitigudino, camino a Gema, Camino del Coche, and Camino de Cipérez, among others.

As the route starts and ends in Vitigudino, you will find various amenities there, including cafes, pubs, and accommodation options. Vitigudino serves as a good base for exploring the surrounding area.

The route traverses the characteristic dehesa landscape, dominated by holm oaks. You might encounter typical Iberian wildlife such as various bird species, rabbits, and potentially deer, especially in the quieter sections away from populated areas.