Sierra de Madrid, special Tour of Spain
Sierra de Madrid, special Tour of Spain
The ports where the Vuelta a España is decided
bike type
Highway
Duration
5 days
Profile
Sport
Distance and slope
298 km / + 5.444 m
Trip Summary
Discover the thrill of cycling through the legendary mountain passes of the Sierra de Madrid
La Morcuera, Canencia and Navafría, on this 4-day cycling trip.
With Routes between 70 and 120 km and gradients of +1000 to +2000 m, you will face the Challenges that have been decisive in the Vuelta a EspañaEnjoy the spectacular natural surroundings of the Sierra de Guadarrama National Park and the Sierra del Rincón Biosphere Reserve.
All with the support of a support vehicle, supplies and specialized accommodation for cyclistsLive a unique experience, surpassing your limits in one of the most iconic cycling destinations in Spain.
Date and availability
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Location
Trip description
Challenge the classic mountain passes of the Sierra de Madrid in 4 unforgettable days
If you are a road cyclist looking for an epic experience, this trip through the mythical ports of the Sierra de Madrid is your next adventure. Get ready to ride the Routes that have been decisive in the Vuelta a España, facing the same challenges as professionals.
During four intense stages, You will conquer legendary climbs such as Morcuera, Canencia and Navafría, crossing impressive landscapes and charming villages such as Buitrago de Lozoya and Rascafría. All from the comfort of accommodation designed for cyclists, in the heart of the Sierra de Guadarrama National Park. CicloLodge It is an exclusive refuge for cycling lovers, surrounded by the majestic Guadarrama Mountains and the Rincon Mountains, an environment of incomparable beauty recognized as a Biosphere Reserve.
This trip offers you a challenge and an opportunity to excel. With routes ranging from 70 to 120 km and gradients of between +1000 and +2000 m, each kilometre will test your endurance and technique. However, your level doesn't matter, as you set the pace, allowing you to enjoy the experience at your own pace, with regroupings at the top of each pass. Throughout the entire journey you will have the comfort and tranquility of a support vehicle, which will not only offer you supplies and technical support, but also the possibility of leaving or picking up clothes and food when you need it, ensuring that you only focus on enjoying the journey.
This journey is not only a physical challenge, but also a unique visual and emotional experience. As you pedal, you will find yourself immersed in stunning landscapes, with green valleys, lush forests and panoramic views from the top of the mountain passes. Each climb will reward you with the majesty of the natural environment that surrounds the roads.
One of the great protagonists of this trip is the Puerto de la Morcuera, one of the most iconic climbs in the Sierra de Guadarrama. At an altitude of 1.796 metres, this pass offers a considerable challenge to cyclists., with demanding slopes and an incomparable visual reward when reaching its summit, where the views over the Lozoya Valley will leave you breathless. Another port that you will enjoy is the Port of Canencia, a gentler climb, but equally spectacular. Its abundant vegetation and peaceful landscapes make it a perfect climb to warm up your legs and connect with nature. We cannot forget the Port of Navafría, a hidden gem in the mountains. Its journey through dense forests and its constant profile make it a port that is as challenging as it is rewarding, with impressive views over the plateau from the top.
The natural environment in which this trip takes place is extraordinary.
El Sierra de Guadarrama National Park will be your main stage, with its high mountain landscapes, deep valleys and plains that are home to a unique biological diversity. You will pedal between imposing mountains and wooded areas that change colors depending on the time of year, creating a constant visual spectacle. In addition, the Sierra del Rincón, declared a Biosphere Reserve, it offers incomparable tranquility. Here, you will cycle along secondary roads surrounded by almost untouched nature, with small towns that maintain a rural and traditional atmosphere, giving you a real sense of disconnection from the modern world.
Get on your bike and join this experience designed to push your own limits in an unrivalled natural environment. Dare to experience the excitement of the most iconic mountain passes in the Sierra de Madrid and become the protagonist of your own great stage.
Itinerary
Arrival at Ciclolodge
Arrival at Ciclolodge
Throughout the afternoon, we will meet at CicloLodge, accommodation designed exclusively for cyclists and located in the heart of the Sierra de Guadarrama. This haven for cycling enthusiasts offers all the necessary amenities for those seeking to conquer challenges on the road: from areas to adjust and store your bike, to relaxation and muscle recovery zones. Upon arrival, you'll have time to familiarize yourself with the surroundings and adjust your equipment.
Later, we will carry out a detailed briefing where we will review the exciting stages that await you, the profiles of the ports and how to make the most of every climb.
The day will end with a welcome dinner, the perfect moment to share expectations and begin to build camaraderie among cyclists who share the same passion for the great challenges of the road.
Discover the excitement of the classic ports of the Vuelta a España: Canencia and Morcuera
Distance
63 km
Elevation
+1279m
Discover the excitement of the classic ports of the Vuelta a España: Canencia and Morcuera
From our cozy accommodation, strategically located at the foot of two iconic ports, we invite you to live a unique cycling experience in one of the paradises of road cycling in Spain. You will be able to challenge the mythical climbs of Canencia y Morcuera, two crucial stages in past editions of the Back to Spain, where great cyclists have left their mark at decisive moments in the competition.
Canencia, with its gentle slopes and landscapes covered with lush forests, will allow you to enjoy a more pleasant ascent while contemplating the spectacular views of the Lozoya Valley. On the other hand, Morcuera will test you with its most demanding slope, crowning the Sierra de Guadarrama and offering you a challenge that will make you feel like one of the professionals of the VueltaThe panoramic view from the top is simply unforgettable, spanning from the mountains to the valley, a perfect contrast between the Atlantic greenery of the peaks and the Mediterranean climate of the valley.
The Sierra de Guadarrama is the perfect setting for a cycling trip that you will never forget. The region's quiet, traffic-free roads are ideal for both cyclists looking for intensive training and those who want to enjoy a more relaxed route. The gentle curves and good condition of the roads make riding here a delight, whether to prepare for your next cycling challenge or simply to delight in the natural beauty of the surroundings.
Furthermore, this region has witnessed great moments in the history of cycling. Did you know that in 2015, Fabio Arau consolidated his victory in the Vuelta right here, in Morcuera? It is a place full of stories and legends, where you can feel the excitement of riding the same routes as the professionals.
El Lozoya Valley, at the foot of these two giants, hides corners full of charm that will allow you to relax after each day. Its climate, a mix between Atlantic in the peaks and Mediterranean in the valley, creates perfect conditions for riding practically all year round.
Epic route through the Sierra del Rincón: 126 km of pure cycling excitement
Distance
126 km
Elevation
+2235m
Epic route through the Sierra del Rincón: 126 km of pure cycling excitement
Get ready to face one of the biggest cycling challenges in the Sierra del Rincón, an impressive Biosphere Reserve declared by UNESCO, which combines natural beauty and sporting challenge. On this route of 126 kilometers and over 2.000 meters of positive height differenceYou will ride along almost deserted roads, where the tranquility and spectacular scenery will be your best companions.
You will visit emblematic places such as Puebla, a charming mountain village surrounded by unspoiled nature, and the picturesque The Hiruela, a corner of great historical and natural value. Along the way, you will also pass by the imposing Villar Dam, an engineering work surrounded by unique landscapes, which offers a visual break between the constant challenges of the terrain.
Legendary mountain passes in the Sierra del Rincón: a leg-breaking terrain for the most demanding cyclists
The heart of this route is found in its climbs. You will climb three of the most iconic ports in the area: Puebla, Hiruela y Cardoso, where the gradient will test you, but the panoramic views from the top will make the effort worthwhile. These passes, famous for their changing landscapes, will make you feel that each kilometre travelled is a personal achievement.
The Sierra del Rincón has been a regular training site for professional cyclists, and its winding roads and spectacular landscapes will make you feel like part of the Back to Spain, where the harshness of the terrain and the beauty of nature combine in an epic journey.
This leg-breaking terrain, with its constant ups and downs, is a demanding challenge. that will test your legs, but the reward is a cycling route that combines the adrenaline of competition with the tranquility of one of the most beautiful and preserved regions of Spain. For lovers of road cycling, this route is not only a physical challenge, but an immersive experience in the nature and history of the Sierra del Rincón.
Cotos and Navacerrada mountain passes.
Distance
71,2 km
Elevation
+1300m
Cotos and Navacerrada mountain passes.
The day begins with the ascent to Port of Cotos, a 13,5 kilometer route along a picturesque secondary road, ideal for enjoying the scenery and warming up your legs. After reaching the top of Cotos, it continues along a false flat to the Puerto de Navacerrada, a classic in the great cycling tours. From there, you will face the epic final challenge: the ascent to the Bola del Mundo, a legendary climb where the champion of this edition will be decided.
At the top, enjoy spectacular views of Madrid and feel the adrenaline rush as you watch the world’s best cyclists give it their all in this demanding finale. You’ll have access to a support car at the base of the Bola del Mundo to collect your picnic and warm clothing, ensuring a comfortable and complete experience as you immerse yourself in the passion of professional cycling.
Don't miss this unique opportunity to combine cycling tourism with one of the most iconic sporting events in Spain. Make this day an unforgettable memory!
Say goodbye to your cycling adventure in the Sierra de Madrid with spectacular views and an unforgettable experience
Distance
73 km
Elevation
+1600m
Say goodbye to your cycling adventure in the Sierra de Madrid with spectacular views and an unforgettable experience
This route will take you through a spectacular mountain landscape, combining the adrenaline of two demanding climbs with the historical charm of the Village of Pedraza, an unmissable destination.
Delve into the heart of the Sierra de Guadarrama National Park, where one of the most legendary ports of the island awaits you. Back to Spain: The Port of Navafría.
From CicloLodge, You will begin the challenge by climbing the southern slope of Navafría, with its slopes that will challenge you with every pedal stroke while you enjoy the impressive views that unfold around you. After reaching the top, you will enter a rapid descent that will take you to Pedraza, a medieval village where getting lost in its cobbled streets is like travelling back in time. Here, in addition to its historical heritage, you can enjoy a well-deserved break with a Ponche Segoviano, the traditional dessert of the area, accompanied by a good coffee. A perfect stop to recharge your batteries and share moments with your group.
The return takes you to face the northern slope of Navafría, a challenge that will test your endurance once again. The reward awaits you at the top, where after crowning, you will enjoy a gentle and comforting descent that will return you to CicloLodge, completing an unforgettable cycling day in one of the most spectacular settings in Spain.
El Puerto de Navafría has witnessed decisive moments in the Vuelta a España, a port that has challenged the best cyclists in the world, And now you can feel that same thrill as you ride along its winding curves. The contrast between the southern and northern slopes, and the views that encompass the mountain landscape, make this route a must-do for cyclists looking to combine challenge and natural beauty.
As a culmination of this trip, you will be able to enjoy a farewell meal at our hotel at 13:00 p.m., where you can relax and share the best moments of the route with your fellow adventurers.
Advantages of booking your event with BikeFriendly
Culture
The Sierra de Madrid combines the excitement of cycling with a cultural environment steeped in history and tradition. You'll pedal through mountain stone villages, where the essence of rural life is still preserved, and for the Sierra del Rincón, declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO.
On the way you will find Romanesque churches, hermitages and medieval bridges, witnesses of the passage of centuries, and you can enjoy the charm of towns such as Rascafría or Buitrago de Lozoya. An experience that combines sport, nature and the authentic Madrid mountain culture.
Weather
The climate in the Sierra de Madrid is marked by the altitude and mountain characterSummers are mild and pleasant for cycling, with average temperatures between 18 and 25°C in the valleys, always cooler in the mountain passes.
In spring and autumn, the weather is variable: sunny days perfect for cycling alternate with cool mornings with a chance of rain. Winter brings cold weather and snow to the peaks, making this the least recommended time of year for cycling.
In general, the best time to enjoy this trip is from May to October, when temperatures allow you to climb legendary mountain passes in ideal conditions and fully enjoy the natural surroundings.
Gastronomy
After a day of cycling through the most legendary ports, there is nothing better than replenishing your strength with the Madrid mountain cuisine, forceful and full of flavor.
Traditional dishes such as Madrid stew, beans from the Sierra del Rincón or grilled meats are the stars of the area's tables. Also notable are the artisan cheeses, the mountain honey and homemade desserts such as doughnuts or rice pudding.
A simple cuisine, featuring local produce and linked to the mountains, that provides the perfect energy to face each new stage.
Land
The terrain in the Sierra de Madrid is ideal for cyclists looking for challenging ports and mountain roads in perfect conditionThe routes alternate long and constant climbs, with gradients between +1.000 and +2.000 meters, and fast, technical descents that test the cyclist's skills.
The roads are mostly paved, narrow and with little traffic, surrounded by forests, valleys and high mountain landscapes within the Sierra de Guadarrama National Park and the Sierra del Rincón Biosphere Reserve.
You will overcome mythical ascents such as La Morcuera, Canencia and Navafría, which have been a decisive stage in the Back to Spain and that offer the perfect blend of sporting challenge and natural beauty.
In short, a land varied, demanding and spectacular, which will make every day an unforgettable cycling experience.
Included services
Accommodations
Accommodations in a shared room. Possibility of choosing an extra single room.
Bed and breakfast
Possibility of having lunch and dinner at the hotel.
Briefing
Welcome briefing to explain the trip and answer questions.
Route itinerary
Tracks of the stages, so you can load them on your GPS device or App that you normally use.
Shower after finishing
On the last day you can shower before returning home.
Telephone assistance
Telephone assistance on the road in case you have a problem.
Not included
Not included
Any service not detailed in Included Services
Direct Flights
Flights or transfers to the hotel.
Additional to hire
Bike rental
If you need a rental bike, ask us, we can help you arrange it with a local company.
Assistance and cancellation insurance
If you think something unforeseen may arise, you can take out cancellation or travel assistance insurance.
Supplement for single occupancy room
If you prefer to sleep alone in the room, hire the supplement.
Transfer from the airport.
Transfer from Adolfo Suarez Madrid-Barajas airport to the hotel and back on the last day.
Extra night at the end of the trip
If you want to stay one more night before returning home, you can hire it.
Spa
Access to the Spa and massage service.
*Check our cancellation policy.
Gallery
Testimonials
The work being done by Bicycles Without Borders and Bikefriendly is commendable and makes me think there is still hope in the world.
I've seen firsthand that this project is real and not just a gimmick. The idea is truly brilliant, and it's helping many children and adolescents continue their education in a very meaningful way, as it's not a charity, but a means for the local population to develop.
The immersive experience in the country is complete, and traveling around the country by bike helps us feel fully integrated into the environment. In just one week, we've been able to understand and learn a lot about this country and its wonderful people, who are materially poor but spiritually rich.
I take my hat off to the work done by both the guide Sergio and the local team, which included Alpha, my lifelong friend and very professional, as well as Idi, Maurice, and Sidy.
I will definitely recommend this trip.
I recommend it, the routes exceeded my expectations! The hotels were good and the food was very good.
FAQs
I have allergies or intolerances. Can you adapt the menus?
What will the group's rhythm be?
Even though there are refreshment stations... do I have to bring my water and bars?
How are shared rooms?
Where will the support vehicle be?
Do you have any doubt? Ask us!
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