4.4
(22)
327
riders
18
rides
Mountain biking around Reserva de la Biosfera de Babia offers diverse landscapes within the Cantabrian Mountains, characterized by high peaks, rocky slopes, and vast valleys. The region features significant glacial formations, including chasms, gorges, and several glacial lakes. Below 1,000 meters, expansive meadows and valleys are present, through which the Sil River flows. This varied terrain provides a range of mountain bike trails suitable for different skill levels.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
5.0
(1)
6
riders
51.1km
06:01
1,680m
1,680m
Tackle the difficult 31.8-mile La Farrapona y Lagos de Somiedo mountain biking route with 5501 feet of gain in 6 hours.
5.0
(2)
9
riders
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.

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2
riders
32.9km
03:07
600m
600m
This difficult 20.5-mile mountain bike route explores the Laciana Valley Biosphere Reserve, featuring Laguna de la Miranda and Santuario de
3.0
(2)
20
riders
39.5km
04:03
1,500m
1,500m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
5.0
(1)
20
riders
34.2km
03:22
850m
850m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The pass is now paved and can be driven on by car.
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During the mining era, this pass served as a discreet link between mines on either side, and minimal traces of old cart and mule traffic remain, though they don't coincide with the current road. From above, the wind is almost constant, and the view towards the Saliencia lakes has that air of a "natural viewpoint" before the term even existed. It's perfect to mark on Komoot as a key point on your route due to its spaciousness, its somewhat hidden history, and its character as a natural border.
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A glacial lake nestled between limestone walls, with a little-known detail: beneath the surrounding meadow, remnants of the old road used to transport materials for the region's former water network are still visible—a nearly erased trace that lends the place a dual character, both natural and industrious. The lake changes dramatically with the light: on cloudy days it appears opaque and heavy, but in sunlight it displays an intense green that reveals its depth and rocky bottom. It's a good spot to pause and appreciate the contrast between the wild landscape and the barely visible but still present vestiges of human activity.
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Beautiful port with very very hard climbs on both sides.
1
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Beautiful, impressive environment.
1
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Impressive views, both for Leonese lands and Asturian lands. The climbs on both slopes are very difficult, but spectacular, and are worth it.
0
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Track with a very technically difficult section of about 300 M, I did it on foot, it is worth it.
1
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A Portal to another dimension, Get off the bike and give yourself 20 minutes!
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There are 19 mountain bike trails documented in Reserva de la Biosfera de Babia on komoot. These routes offer a mix of moderate and difficult options, catering to various skill levels.
Yes, while many trails are challenging, there are 6 moderate mountain bike routes available. One such option is the Slope of the Torre River – Torre de Babia loop from Riolago de Babia, which covers 34.2 km and typically takes around 3 hours 22 minutes.
The trails in Reserva de la Biosfera de Babia traverse diverse landscapes, from high mountain peaks exceeding 2,000 meters to vast valleys and glacial formations. You'll encounter rocky slopes, chasms, gorges, and several glacial lakes. The region is also characterized by expansive meadows through which the Sil River flows, offering a blend of rugged and serene scenery.
Yes, many routes in Reserva de la Biosfera de Babia are circular. For example, the challenging Laguna de las Verdes, Laguna la Recoleta y Valle de Valverde – circular desde San Emiliano por la Reserva de la biosfera de Babia is a 46.7 km loop exploring multiple glacial lagoons and the Valverde Valley. Another option is the Cuerno la Mora and Carrasconte Sanctuary Loop, a 32.9 km route through mountainous terrain.
The region is rich in natural beauty. You can encounter significant mountain passes like La Cubilla Pass and Ventana Pass, offering stunning views. Glacial lakes such as Lagoon of Las Verdes are also prominent features. Some routes, like La Farrapona and Somiedo Lakes Loop, specifically pass by these beautiful glacial lakes.
The Reserva de la Biosfera de Babia is located in the Cantabrian Mountains, which means conditions can vary significantly with seasons. While specific recommendations depend on current weather, generally, late spring to early autumn offers the most favorable conditions for mountain biking, with milder temperatures and less chance of snow at higher elevations. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
The mountain bike trails in Reserva de la Biosfera de Babia are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from over 20 reviews. Many riders praise the diverse terrain, from high mountain peaks to expansive valleys, and the challenging nature of the routes.
Absolutely. The Reserva de la Biosfera de Babia is known for its prominent peaks, including Peña Ubiña (2,417 m) and Peña Orniz (2,193 m). Routes like the Alto de la Farrapona – Lago de la Cueva loop from Torrestío will take you through high mountain landscapes, providing breathtaking panoramic views of these majestic summits and the entire Babia Biosphere Reserve.
While the Reserva de la Biosfera de Babia is a rural area, some villages like San Emiliano, which serves as a starting point for routes such as the Laguna de las Verdes, Laguna la Recoleta y Valle de Valverde circular, may have limited public transport connections. It's advisable to research specific bus routes and schedules to these smaller towns in advance, as services can be infrequent.
Yes, the region's glacial past is evident on several trails. The La Farrapona and Somiedo Lakes Loop is a prime example, passing by significant glacial lakes. The landscape has been carved by glaciers, resulting in spectacular chasms and gorges, which you'll experience on many of the more challenging routes.
The Reserva de la Biosfera de Babia is dotted with traditional villages that retain their rural charm. While specific cafes or pubs directly on every trail might be scarce, you can often find establishments in the towns and villages that serve as starting or ending points for routes, such as San Emiliano or Riolago de Babia. These offer opportunities to refuel and experience local culture.
The mountain bike trails in Reserva de la Biosfera de Babia are predominantly on the more challenging side, with 13 out of 19 routes classified as difficult. These often involve significant elevation gains and technical sections. However, there are also 6 moderate routes available for those seeking a less strenuous ride.


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