Madrid to Miraflores
Start your epic journey 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 that culminates at the welcoming Hacienda Los Robles, where you’ll end a truly epic day in the mountains.
Technical Data
Distance
71 km
Elevation Gain
1.900 m
Elevation Loss
1.800 m
Max Ascent Grade
15,3%
Min Ascent Grade
24,3%
Unpaved Roads
63%
Paved Roads
37%
Navacerrada to Ávila
On the third day, we ride a challenging 98 km stage from Navacerrada to Ávila. This ride through high plains and forest trails is dotted with fascinating cultural landmarks, including Cruz dos Caídos, El Escorial and Collado de la Mina. Experience the thrill of cycling along a ridge through a picturesque windmill park. At the end of the long day, a hidden gem awaits – a perfect singletrack leading to Ávila. This historic city, rich in culture and charm, is a rewarding end to an exhilarating day of cycling.
Technical Data
Distance
98 km
Elevation Gain
1.900 m
Elevation Loss
2.000 m
Max Ascent Grade
18,8%
Min Ascent Grade
29,7%
Unpaved Roads
76%
Paved Roads
24%
ÁVILA TO BARCO D’ÁVILA
Leaving the medieval city of Ávila, we descend through its ancient streets and head west, following a forest trail along a winding stream. This day promises to be an exhilarating day of high mountain mountain bike, with the highest crossing of the Zapatero mountain at 1,822 meters in the Gredos massif. The stunning scenery and scenic route along the Tormes River with its Roman bridges will make this long day unforgettable. As you push through this challenging stage, the adventure culminates in the historic villa of Barco d’Ávila, nestled in the heart of this majestic mountain range.
Technical Data
Distance
113 km
Elevation Gain
1.900 m
Elevation Loss
2.000 m
Max Ascent Grade
15,2%
Min Ascent Grade
20,5%
Unpaved Roads
62%
Paved Roads
38%
BARCO D’ÁVILA TO SOTOSERRANO
On the fifth stage of this adventure, prepare to face the formidable Mount Béjar. This day is defined by tough climbs, rugged tracks and challenging single trails that make for slow but exhilarating progress. As you navigate through dense oak forests and the charming village of Candelário, the emotional highs of the ride will keep you motivated. The day’s challenging terrain will test your limits, but with some rewarding singletrack, you’ll eventually arrive in Sotoserrano. Here, a well-deserved rest awaits, marking the end of an intense and unforgettable day.
Technical Data
Distance
87 km
Elevation Gain
1.600 m
Elevation Loss
2.100 m
Max Ascent Grade
16,3%
Min Ascent Grade
13,7%
Unpaved Roads
56%
Paved Roads
44%
Sotoserrano to Pinofranqueado
Today offers a welcome reprieve with softer terrain, perfect for recovering from the previous challenging stage. As the mountains soften and the ground turns to shale, you’ll enter a realm of majestic oaks and pines. Enjoy beautiful forest trails and take in the breathtaking scenery of Las Hurdes. You’ll climb more than 1,500 vertical feet in 84 kilometers, making this a rewarding and invigorating ride. Finish your ride in Pinofranqueado, where a sense of accomplishment and serene surroundings await. This stage balances recovery with the thrill of scenic exploration and sets the tone for the days ahead.
Technical Data
Distance
84 km
Elevation Gain
1.500 m
Elevation Loss
1.600 m
Max Ascent Grade
15,8%
Min Ascent Grade
21,9%
Unpaved Roads
88%
Paved Roads
12%
PINOFRANQUEADO TO TREVEJO
On the seventh stage of this epic tour, nearing the halfway point, immerse yourself in the charm of small villages frozen in time, where ancient ways of life endure. The Sierra de Gata unfolds with stunning routes and breathtaking photo opportunities, making this a day of both scenic beauty and historical intrigue. As you cycle through these picturesque landscapes, you will be inspired by a sense of timeless adventure. The stage culminates in the enchanting village of Trevejo, providing a rewarding and picturesque end to an unforgettable day. Embrace the blend of history and natural splendor that defines this stage.
Technical Data
Distance
96 km
Elevation Gain
1.600 m
Elevation Loss
1.500 m
Max Ascent Grade
20,3%
Min Ascent Grade
19,3%
Unpaved Roads
92%
Paved Roads
8%
TREVEJO TO SABUGAL
This is one of the shortest days of the trip, a great opportunity to recover for the challenging days ahead! As you climb Malcata Mountain and cross the border between Portugal and Spain at nearly 1,000 meters, you’ll be crossing a remote and untamed region. Embrace the thrill of cycling through this wild terrain as you approach Portugal’s first traditional villages. Starting near a lush forest of pines and oaks, you’ll arrive in Sabugal, where a delicious traditional Portuguese meal awaits. This stage combines a moment of rest with the excitement of new beginnings and cultural discovery.
Technical Data
Distance
49 km
Elevation Gain
1.100 m
Elevation Loss
900 m
Max Ascent Grade
17,9%
Min Ascent Grade
17,3%
Unpaved Roads
67%
Paved Roads
33%
SABUGAL TO MANTEIGAS
Prepare for a breathtaking day exploring Portugal’s most iconic historic villages. Discover Sortelha, a stunning medieval granite village crowned by an impressive castle, and revel in the charm of its ancient stone streets. As you navigate exhilarating singletrack through the valleys, the thrill of cycling through these timeless landscapes is unparalleled. Climb into Portugal’s higher mountains, where beautiful forests lead you to the picturesque village of Manteigas, nestled in a glacial valley. This stage promises both historical wonder and natural beauty, making it an unforgettable highlight of your adventure.
Technical Data
Distance
81 km
Elevation Gain
1.900 m
Elevation Loss
1.900 m
Max Ascent Grade
14,7%
Min Ascent Grade
20,0%
Unpaved Roads
75%
Paved Roads
25%
MANTEIGAS TO ALDEIA DAS DEZ
Prepare for a day of breathtaking mountain scenery and unforgettable challenges. You’ll conquer the highest peak in Portugal, climbing over 1,600 meters near a lagoon in the majestic Serra da Estrela – a granite massif known for its forests, alpine meadows and charming mountain villages. As you climb through this awe-inspiring terrain, you will be captivated by the beauty of the landscape. At the end of the day, you’ll reach Aldeia das Dez, a quiet rural village on the left bank of the River Alva. This stage promises an exhilarating blend of natural grandeur and the tranquil charm of Portugal’s highlands.
Technical Data
Distance
70 km
Elevation Gain
1.600 m
Elevation Loss
1.900 m
Max Ascent Grade
18,7%
Min Ascent Grade
21,2%
Unpaved Roads
61%
Paved Roads
39%
ALDEIA DAS DEZ TO PENELA
Depart from the charming granite houses and haystacks of Aldeia das Dez and ride through Portugal’s central mountain range. This stage marks the last day of cycling above 1,000 meters, making it an unforgettable climb through awe-inspiring landscapes. On the descent, prepare for an exhilarating ride that will take you to the tranquil village of Penela.The contrast between the high altitude challenge and the peaceful village setting will cap off this spectacular day of adventure.
Technical Data
Distance
95 km
Elevation Gain
2.100 m
Elevation Loss
2.300 m
Max Ascent Grade
19,8%
Min Ascent Grade
19,1%
Unpaved Roads
52%
Paved Roads
48%
PENELA TO TOMAR
Get ready for an incredible day of diverse landscapes! Ride through majestic mountain scenery and charming typical villages before tackling the exhilarating Alge Canyon trail. Experience the thrill of an impressive waterfall and some super fun singletrack along the river, sure to delight any mountain biker, then the scenery changes dramatically as you enter a rolling karst region dotted with olive groves and holm oaks. Welcome to the kingdom of limestone, where every turn promises new adventure and breathtaking views.This stage is a true testament to the beauty and excitement of the journey.
Technical Data
Distance
83 km
Elevation Gain
1.800 m
Elevation Loss
1.900 m
Max Ascent Grade
15,1%
Min Ascent Grade
16,3%
Unpaved Roads
67%
Paved Roads
33%
TOMAR TO ALCOBAÇA
Leave Tomar and embark on a journey through the limestone hills, spending the entire day in the Kingdom of Stone. Ride along paths flanked by centuries-old stone walls and feel the history beneath your wheels. As the day progresses, climb to the last ridge of this rugged terrain and catch your first breathtaking glimpse of the Atlantic coast. Arrive in Alcobaça, home to the famous Santa Maria Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The blend of natural beauty and historic grandeur makes this stage an unforgettable highlight of the adventure.
Technical Data
Distance
96 km
Elevation Gain
1.500 m
Elevation Loss
1.400 m
Max Ascent Grade
13,4%
Min Ascent Grade
16,9%
Unpaved Roads
74%
Paved Roads
26%
ALCOBAÇA TO LOURINHÃ
Leaving behind the impressive medieval buildings of Alcobaça, we head towards Lourinhã, a city once roamed by dinosaurs. This stage is the final crossing of the karst landscape, taking us through a breathtaking trail on the Montejunto Sierra. As we ride along the mountainside, we are treated to magnificent views of the plains.Enjoy exciting single trails on ridges dotted with typical windmills and along rivers surrounded by lush Mediterranean vegetation.This stage is a true testament to the diverse and breathtaking beauty of Portugal’s landscapes.
Technical Data
Distance
88 km
Elevation Gain
1.300 m
Elevation Loss
1.300 m
Max Ascent Grade
15,1%
Min Ascent Grade
16,4%
Lourinhã to Cabo Roca
This is the final stage and for those who have spent days conquering the mountains of the Iberian Peninsula, this day offers a refreshing change. 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
87 km
Elevation Gain
1.700 m
Elevation Loss
1.600 m
Max Ascent Grade
18,5%
Min Ascent Grade
20,7%