Madrid to Miraflores
Your epic journey starts in the heart of Madrid, at the Plaza del Sol, next to the iconic km 0 marker where all roads begin. Riding through charming pedestrian streets and iconic parks like the famous Parque del Retiro, you’ll head north, skirting the Anillo Verde. After just a few kilometers and an hour of riding, the adventure truly begins with dirt roads and thrilling singletrack that merge with the Camino de Santiago. Pedal through stunning golden fields, leaving the stress of the city behind, with your sights set on conquering the Guadarrama Mountains. Your destination: Miraflores, at 1,100 meters above sea level, where the real challenge awaits.
Technical Data
Distance
69 km
Elevation Gain
1.200 m
Elevation Loss
700 m
Max Ascent Grade
15,4%
Min Ascent Grade
13,3%
Unpaved Roads
69%
Paved Roads
31%
Miraflores to Navacerrada
Starting from Miraflores de la Sierra, near the Guadalix River, you’ll hike up a beautiful forest trail surrounded by pines and oaks. This day promises high mountain views and the chance to see horses, cattle, and wildlife. The stage features an exhilarating twisty singletrack that weaves between cascading waterfalls and lush green canopies. With challenging climbs and thrilling descents, this is a day to remember. The grand finale is a long, exhilarating descent at the welcoming Hacienda Los Robles, where you’ll end a truly epic day in the mountains.
Technical Data
Distance
84 km
Elevation Gain
2.000 m
Elevation Loss
2.000 m
Max Ascent Grade
11,7%
Min Ascent Grade
12,9%
Unpaved Roads
41%
Paved Roads
59%
Navacerrada to Ávila
On the third day, embark on an exhilarating off-road adventure from Navacerrada to Ávila, a 105 km stage that takes you through the breathtaking landscapes of the Guadarrama mountain range. Feel the fresh mountain air as you pedal through picturesque trails, surrounded by lush greenery and breathtaking views. As you approach Ávila, the medieval charm of its ancient walls welcomes you to a destination steeped in history. This gravel biking track promises not only physical exertion but also a deep connection with nature and a sense of accomplishment when you reach the historic city of Ávila.
Technical Data
Distance
106 km
Elevation Gain
1.700 m
Elevation Loss
1.800 m
Max Ascent Grade
13,1%
Min Ascent Grade
13,8%
Unpaved Roads
41%
Paved Roads
59%
ÁVILA TO BARCO D’ÁVILA
Start the day leaving the medieval city of Ávila, descending through the streets along the ancient walls, the direction is west, entering a forest trail along the Rio Adaja. This is another day of gravel bike on high mountain roads, with the highest passage at 1,688 m in the Sierra de Gredos Regional Park, which will offer you wonderful and beautiful landscapes. This will be the longest stage with a distance of 124 km, which will test your stamina. Finally, the route reaches Barco d’Ávila, a historic villa in this mountain range.
Technical Data
Distance
124 km
Elevation Gain
2.000 m
Elevation Loss
2.100 m
Max Ascent Grade
9,8%
Min Ascent Grade
12,0%
Unpaved Roads
33%
Paved Roads
67%
Barco D’Ávila to Hervas
Today is an exciting gravel bike adventure from Barco D’Ávila to Hervas! Start by crossing the river over the medieval bridge of El Barco de Ávila, a marvel of Roman origin. Tackle narrow roads and challenging climbs to Puerto del Tremedal, where panoramic mountain views reward your efforts. Enjoy a continuous descent, feeling the exhilarating breeze as you take in the breathtaking views. The ever-changing scenery, from lush green meadows to dense forests and quaint villages, will keep you on the edge of your seat. Pedaling with joy, you’ll reach the enchanting town of Hervas, completing an unforgettable day on your gravel bike.
Technical Data
Distance
68 km
Elevation Gain
1.200 m
Elevation Loss
1.600 m
Max Ascent Grade
11,2%
Min Ascent Grade
11,6%
Unpaved Roads
16%
Paved Roads
84%
Hervas to Pinofranqueado
After a hearty breakfast, leave Hervás on a rugged trail to Pinofranqueado. Prepare for a challenging 5 km climb surrounded by lush vegetation. Your efforts will be rewarded with an exhilarating descent, the wind in your face, and breathtaking views of eucalyptus and oak forests. Cross the La Pesga bridge at the Gabriel y Galán dam, where a hidden Roman bridge may appear when the water level is low. Enjoy the stunning scenery from the river viewpoint, dotted with olive groves. As you approach Pinofranqueado, cross the Río de los Ángeles over the Puente de Pinofranqueado. If time permits, relax in the natural swimming pool, where the calm waters of the river provide the perfect end to a challenging day.
Technical Data
Distance
113 km
Elevation Gain
1.900 m
Elevation Loss
2.200 m
Max Ascent Grade
14,1%
Min Ascent Grade
15,3%
Unpaved Roads
46%
Paved Roads
54%
Pinofranqueado to Sabugal
Today’s route covers 110 km of mostly gravel roads for an authentic gravel biking experience. You’ll feel a deep connection with nature as you navigate the winding curves. As you cross the border, you will see a variety of landscapes, from agricultural fields and artificial meadows to oak and pine forests. These stunning vistas will guide you all the way to Sabugal. Upon arrival, indulge in your first traditional Portuguese meal. We recommend tasting some of the region’s finest sheep and goat cheeses, a product of an ancient pastoral tradition. This day promises both a physical challenge and a delicious culinary reward.
Technical Data
Distance
110 km
Elevation Gain
1.700 m
Elevation Loss
1.400 m
Max Ascent Grade
10,7%
Min Ascent Grade
11,5%
Unpaved Roads
67%
Paved Roads
33%
Sabugal to Manteigas
Embark on a beautiful day through a region full of Portugal’s iconic historic villages. Discover Sortelha, an amazing medieval granite village with an impressive castle! Medieval stone roads and single tracks through the valleys between villages will delight gravel cyclists. Pass through fields of vineyards producing wines from the Serra da Estrela sub-region, known for their minerality, elegance, freshness, and longevity. Enjoy moments of green meadows along the way, and pass by several fountains fed by the Zêzere River. Stop at viewpoints to admire breathtaking panoramic views. Soon you will arrive at the picturesque village of Manteigas, nestled in a glacial valley!
Technical Data
Distance
93 km
Elevation Gain
1.900 m
Elevation Loss
1.800 m
Max Ascent Grade
12,8%
Min Ascent Grade
12,1%
Unpaved Roads
31%
Paved Roads
69%
Manteigas to Piódão
Leaving the village of Manteigas, you’ll embark on a thrilling gravel bike adventure across mountain roads offering breathtaking views of Europe’s largest glacial valley and the birthplace of the Zêzere River. Pedal through postcard scenes where grazing sheep and goats fill the mountain landscapes, capturing the essence of rural life. But the adventure doesn’t end there – prepare for a challenging climb to Piodão. Nestled in a beautiful valley with houses clinging to the hillside, Piodão is considered one of the most beautiful villages in Portugal. This stage combines awe-inspiring views with challenging terrain, making it a true test of stamina and spirit.
Technical Data
Distance
84 km
Elevation Gain
1.800 m
Elevation Loss
1.900 m
Max Ascent Grade
13,1%
Min Ascent Grade
13,5%
Unpaved Roads
12%
Paved Roads
88%
Piódão to Miranda do Corvo
Today’s stage will push your limits, offering the greatest cumulative climb and descent of the entire tour. Starting from the charming village of Piódão, you’ll tackle rugged trails and mountain roads, passing majestic windmills that punctuate the landscape. As you ride, the scenery reveals itself in breathtaking layers, leading you to the picturesque village of Góis, nestled in the embrace of nature. The adventure continues, taking you through breathtaking vistas until you reach Miranda do Corvo. Here, the beauty of the surroundings mirrors the triumph of your gravel journey, making every challenging moment worthwhile.
Technical Data
Distance
83 km
Elevation Gain
2.200 m
Elevation Loss
2.900 m
Max Ascent Grade
14,5%
Min Ascent Grade
17,8%
Unpaved Roads
43%
Paved Roads
57%
Miranda do Corvo to Alvados
Today’s ride from Miranda do Corvo will captivate your senses with its blend of history and natural beauty. As you pass through the charming streets of Penela, you’ll be greeted by the historic elegance of its castle, adding a touch of medieval splendor to your journey. Each pedal stroke unveils the diverse landscapes of the Portuguese countryside, from olive groves and vineyards to rolling green meadows. Embrace the fresh breezes and scenic beauty that define this gravel adventure. The final stretch will lead you along enchanting trails, through green hills and rustic roads, culminating in your arrival at the picturesque village of Alvados.
Technical Data
Distance
109 km
Elevation Gain
1.800 m
Elevation Loss
1.700 m
Max Ascent Grade
13,4%
Min Ascent Grade
12,0%
Unpaved Roads
32%
Paved Roads
68%
Alvados to Óbidos
Starting from the picturesque town of Alvados, you’ll head towards Óbidos, passing through the Ecopista tunnels near São Pedro. The route unfolds through lush agricultural lands and grassy fields, passing close to the historic Alcobaça Castle, a testament to the 13th and 14th centuries. A dirt road then leads you through cornfields and south along the stunning coastline. Enjoy breathtaking views of the bay of São Martinho do Porto, the charming village of Foz do Arelho, and the tranquil Óbidos lagoon. Your journey ends in the medieval village of Óbidos, where you will be awed by the warm hospitality and stunning scenery.
Technical Data
Distance
103 km
Elevation Gain
1.200 m
Elevation Loss
1.500 m
Max Ascent Grade
15,0%
Min Ascent Grade
15,8%
Unpaved Roads
35%
Paved Roads
65%
Óbidos to Cabo da Roca
This is the final day of this epic journey. For those who have spent days conquering the mountains of the Iberian Peninsula, this stage offers a refreshing ride experience. Enjoy the quiet coastal roads, dramatic cliffs, and charming fishing villages that make this leg of the journey so unique, and the anticipation builds as we approach our final destination – Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of Europe. This epic finale is both a triumphant end and a breathtaking reward for the challenge you’ve taken on.
Technical Data
Distance
110 km
Elevation Gain
1.687 m
Elevation Loss
1.599 m
Max Ascent Grade
13,2%
Min Ascent Grade
12,4%
Unpaved Roads
31%
Paved Roads
68%