Sierra de Alhama and Old Railway Loop from Periana

This route is classified as a moderate mountain bike ride. It requires good fitness and advanced riding skills, corresponding approximately to a Single Track Scale (STS) S2 technical difficulty. Some less experienced riders might find certain sections challenging enough to require pushing their bike.

The terrain is varied, utilizing the historic 'antiguo tren cremallera' (old rack railway). You'll encounter a mix of dirt tracks ('carril terrizo'), royal paths ('realenga'), and sections of the old train route itself. Given its history as a rack railway, expect noticeable ascents and descents throughout the ride.

The route offers several notable features. You'll cross the impressive El Aguadero Bridge and ride along the historic Old Rack Railway Route (Vía Verde de la Axarquía). There's also a fantastic View of Embalse de la Viñuela from Periana, which is considered one of the best viewpoints in the Axarquía region.

You can expect breathtaking scenery and stunning views. The trail winds through olive groves, almond trees, and fig trees, offering panoramic vistas of the Viñuela Reservoir. On clear days, you might even spot the Mediterranean Sea in the distance. The area is part of the Sierras de Tejeda, Almijara y Alhama Natural Park, characterized by deep valleys, mountain ranges, and spectacular wild nature, including charming white villages.

As this is a circular route starting and ending in Periana, you can typically find parking within the village itself. Specific parking areas for trail access are usually well-marked or can be found near the main access points to the old rack railway route.

Yes, the 'Sierra de Alhama – circular desde Periana por antiguo tren cremallera' is a circular route, meaning it starts and ends in Periana, bringing you back to your starting point without needing to retrace your steps.

The best time to ride this trail is generally during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) months. During these periods, the weather is typically milder and more pleasant for mountain biking, avoiding the intense heat of summer and potential winter rains.

As the trail passes through the Sierras de Tejeda, Almijara y Alhama Natural Park, dogs are generally permitted but must be kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure the safety of other trail users. Please ensure you clean up after your pet.

Typically, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to ride this trail or to enter the Sierras de Tejeda, Almijara y Alhama Natural Park. However, always respect park regulations, such as staying on marked paths and not disturbing the natural environment.

Yes, the route intersects with several other paths. Notably, it covers sections of the [CIMA ML04] Puerto del Sol (27%), Ruta de la Sierra (18%), and the Andalucía - South Route (Provincia de Málaga) (15%). You may also encounter parts of the [CIMA ML14] Boquete de Zafarraya and Perina - Pulgarín trails.

Given the moderate difficulty and length, it's essential to bring plenty of water, snacks, a helmet, appropriate mountain biking gear, a repair kit for your bike, and sun protection. A map or GPS device is also recommended, as well as a fully charged phone for emergencies.