The best road cycling routes around Santomera
4.4
(94)
6,326
riders
18
rides
Road cycling around Santomera features diverse landscapes, ranging from the mountainous terrain of the Sierra de Orihuela to the flat agricultural plains of La Huerta. The region includes significant natural features such as the Santomera Reservoir and the Humedal del Ajauque y Rambla Salada wetlands. These varied environments provide a mix of challenging ascents and gentle routes through orchards and along river plains. The area offers mostly paved surfaces suitable for road cycling.
Best road cycling routes around Santomera
- The most popular road cycling route is La Fica Bridge – Murcia Río Riverside Walk loop from Santomera, a 31.1 miles (50.1 km) trail that takes 2 hours 5 minutes to complete. This moderate route follows riverside paths with minimal elevation gain.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is La Pedrera Reservoir – La Pedrera Reservoir loop from Santomera, a moderate 55.1 miles (88.7 km) path. This route offers views of the reservoir and includes varied elevation changes.
- Local road cyclists also love the View of the Matanzas Mountains – View of Amadorio Reservoir loop from Santomera, a 52.1 miles (83.9 km) trail leading through mountainous terrain and past reservoirs, often completed in about 3 hours 45 minutes.
- Road cycling around Santomera is defined by mountainous sections in the Sierra de Orihuela, serene routes through agricultural orchards, and scenic paths around the Santomera Reservoir and wetlands. The network offers options for easy, moderate, and difficult routes, catering to different ability levels.
- The routes in Santomera are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from more than 10 reviews. More than 400 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Santomera's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 8, 2026
3.8
(11)
135
riders
50.1km
02:06
70m
70m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(2)
76
riders
88.0km
03:50
500m
500m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Sign up for free
27
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
23
riders
41.6km
01:58
170m
170m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
22
riders
54.3km
03:24
470m
470m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
The route around the reservoir is very pleasant to drive, making up for the journey from the town.
0
0
A manageable route from Alicante to the La Pedrera reservoir. You don't need to be in great shape, just able to handle the effort of covering the kilometers.
0
0
A nice place for a leisurely stroll, or for a campfire. Be careful with the wind; it tends to blow quite strongly. The pavement is in good condition.
0
0
Beautiful route between Orihuela and Embalse de la Pedrera
0
0
Former episcopal city - typical Spanish city - lively Orihuela is located on the left bank of the Río Segura (60 km south of Alicante) and surrounded by a green valley with palm trees and citrus groves. It is a former episcopal city at the foot of a mountain with ruins of a fortress and buildings of the seminary. From the seminary you have a beautiful view. The historic center bears witness to a rich past, with Gothic and Baroque heritage, religious buildings and museums. In this typical Spanish city it is lively and cozy in both the old and the new city, with numerous restaurants, bars and terraces. The brightly colored houses on the river Segura in the center, may remind you of Gerona. In addition to the palm gardens of Elche, the palm forest (Palmeral) of Orihuela is also worth a visit. The forest, the second largest in Europe, is located on the edge of the historic centre History The city was called 'Aurariola' under Roman rule and 'Orguëla' under the Moors. In the 9th century, Orihuela was the capital of the Duchy of Teodomiro. After that, it was under the rule of the Umayyad Caliphate. In 1242, after the liberation from the Moors, the city was incorporated into the Kingdom of Valencia. It flourished during the period when it was a bishopric in 1564. After the war of succession, the city was destroyed by the troops of Philip V because Orihuela had sided with Austria. In 1910, the writer/poet Miguel Hernández was born in the city and his house can now be visited as a museum Nature - Active The city is surrounded by palm trees and orange and lemon groves. On the edge of the historic centre is the Palm Grove (Palmeral) and offers the perfect location for nature watching, picnicking or a pleasant walk. The Natural Park, "Pinar de Bonanza", is just outside the town (4.5 km north-west). This nature reserve has an interesting variety of fauna and flora, and is a popular place for cycling, walking and picnicking. The River Segura runs through the heart of Orihuela and is ideal for a relaxing walk. To the south, near the village of Torremendo, is the beautiful Pedrera reservoir, with its bright blue colours. There are beautiful views of the lake from various viewpoints. You can cycle and walk around the lake. You can go canoeing on the lake
0
0
Campus de las Salesas de la Universidad Miguel Hernández (left of the university facade; inconspicuous entrance with a small glass dome). Tuesday-Saturday 10am-2pm, 5pm-8pm (4pm-7pm in winter) Sundays and holidays 10am-2pm, closed on 25th and 31st December, 1st January. FREE admission! This museum at the foot of the Universidad Miguel Hernández contains finds from excavations on the former site of the Casa del Paso (1998-2000); remains of the enclosure wall, of the baths and dwellings from the Moorish period, of a Gothic palace, of an amok building and of several other buildings.
0
0
Ramón y Cajal Street. Tuesday-Saturday 10am-2pm, 5pm-8pm (4pm-7pm early September-mid June, Sunday 10am-2pm, Monday closed. This cathedral is mainly Gothic (14th century) and was thoroughly renovated and expanded in the 16th century. The north side has a beautiful Renaissance portal with the theme of the Annunciation. The interior is accessed via the apse, which was completed in 1942 with a very graceful 14th century cloister from the Convento de la Merced. Inside, some vaults have remarkable spiral ribs that are characteristic of Levantine Gothic. Also admire the magnificent latticework that closes off the choir, and the presbytery with the imperial coat of arms of Charles V and a beautiful altarpiece by Santa Catalina, said to be by Juan de Victoria (16th century).
0
0
Quiet area with little car traffic!
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Santomera?
Santomera offers a diverse selection of nearly 20 road cycling routes. These include 3 easy routes, 14 moderate routes, and 1 difficult route, ensuring options for various fitness levels and preferences.
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes in Santomera?
You'll find a mix of terrains. The routes range from challenging ascents in the mountainous Sierra de Orihuela to serene, flatter paths through the agricultural La Huerta de Santomera, characterized by extensive citrus groves. You can also cycle along scenic paths around the Santomera Reservoir and the Humedal del Ajauque y Rambla Salada wetlands.
Are there any easy road cycling routes suitable for beginners or a more relaxed ride?
Yes, Santomera has 3 easy road cycling routes. One option is the View of the Matanzas Mountains – Aqueduct loop from Santomera, which is about 41.3 km long with a manageable 169 meters of elevation gain, offering a pleasant ride.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Santomera?
Santomera benefits from over 300 days of sunshine annually, making it suitable for road cycling for much of the year. The climate is generally favorable, allowing for outdoor activities across most seasons.
Are there any circular road cycling routes around Santomera?
Yes, many of the routes around Santomera are designed as loops. For example, the popular La Fica Bridge – Murcia Río Riverside Walk loop from Santomera is a 50.1 km route that follows riverside paths, offering a moderate and scenic circular ride.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Santomera?
The road cycling routes in Santomera are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 10 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, from challenging mountain sections to picturesque orchard paths, and the well-maintained paved surfaces.
Can I find routes that offer significant elevation gain for a more challenging ride?
Absolutely. For a more challenging experience, consider routes that venture into the Sierra de Orihuela. The View of the Matanzas Mountains – View of Amadorio Reservoir loop from Santomera, for instance, is an 83.9 km route with over 768 meters of elevation gain, leading through mountainous terrain and past reservoirs.
Are there any long-distance road cycling routes available?
Yes, there are several longer routes for endurance cyclists. The El Fondo Natural Park – Bigastro–Rojales Road loop from Santomera covers approximately 93.5 km, offering a substantial ride through varied landscapes.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along the road cycling routes?
Many routes offer views of significant natural features. You can cycle past the Santomera Reservoir, the unique saline waters of the Humedal del Ajauque y Rambla Salada, and through the expansive citrus orchards of La Huerta. For broader exploration, nearby attractions include the Desierto de Abanilla.
Are there any routes that pass by reservoirs?
Yes, several routes incorporate reservoirs into their scenic paths. A notable option is the La Pedrera Reservoir – La Pedrera Reservoir loop from Santomera, an 88.7 km route that provides extensive views of the reservoir and its surroundings.
What are some cultural or historical points of interest near the cycling routes?
While cycling, you'll be in a region rich with history. Nearby, you can explore cultural landmarks such as the Murcia Cathedral, the Real Casino of Murcia, and the Romea Theatre. The Christ of Monteagudo is also a prominent local landmark.
Most popular attractions around Santomera
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Road cycling routes in other regions.
