The best road cycling routes around Embalse del Negratín
5.0
(1)
114
riders
13
rides
Road cycling routes around Embalse del Negratín traverse a landscape characterized by the reservoir's turquoise waters, dramatic badlands, and deep canyons. The terrain features a mix of paved surfaces with varying elevation gains, offering diverse challenges for road cyclists. From many vantage points, riders can observe the arid surroundings and distant views of the Sierra Nevada mountains. This region provides a unique backdrop for road cycling, blending natural features with engaging routes.
Best road cycling routes around Embalse del Negratín
- The most popular road cycling route is Negratín Reservoir – El Portillo Reservoir loop from Bácor, a 54.7 miles (88.0 km) trail that takes 4 hours 21 minutes to complete. This difficult route offers extensive views across the reservoir and surrounding arid landscapes.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Castillo de Freila – Zújar loop from Zújar, a moderate 19.0 miles (30.5 km) path. This route provides a shorter, engaging ride through the area, passing by local villages.
- Local road cyclists also love the Plain of the Caves of Campo - circular via the Negratín Reservoir, a 39.1 miles (62.9 km) trail leading through unique geological formations, often completed in about 3 hours 17 minutes.
- Road cycling around Embalse del Negratín is defined by its striking turquoise waters, dramatic badlands, and distant views of the Sierra Nevada. The network offers options for different ability levels, from moderate loops to more challenging long-distance routes.
- The routes in Embalse del Negratín are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 2 reviews. More than 116 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Embalse del Negratín's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 30, 2026
8
riders
87.6km
04:11
1,180m
1,180m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
3
riders
55.8km
02:44
710m
710m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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22
riders
30.6km
01:39
490m
490m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
11
riders
62.9km
03:17
720m
720m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5
riders
89.1km
04:48
1,570m
1,570m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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Other adventures around Embalse del Negratín
Tips from the Community
Castril is a wonderful destination in the province of Granada! Castril Castle: Located on La Peña, this castle offers stunning views of the town and its surroundings. Although it is in ruins, it can be visited on guided tours Historic Center: Stroll through the cobbled streets and white houses adorned with flowers. Don't miss the Church of Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles Sendero de la Cerrada del Río Castril: A spectacular walk through walkways and wooden bridges over the Castril River Sierra de Castril Natural Park: Enjoy nature with trails, waterfalls and stunning landscapes
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Castril is a wonderful destination in the province of Granada! Castril Castle: Located on La Peña, this castle offers stunning views of the town and its surroundings. Although it is in ruins, it can be visited on guided tours Historic Center: Stroll through the cobbled streets and white houses adorned with flowers. Don't miss the Church of Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles Sendero de la Cerrada del Río Castril: A spectacular walk through walkways and wooden bridges over the Castril River Sierra de Castril Natural Park: Enjoy nature with trails, waterfalls and stunning landscapes
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The El Portillo reservoir or El Portillo Dam is located on the Castril River, in the municipality of Castril, in the province of Granada. This reservoir belongs to the Guadalquivir Hydrographic Confederation, in the Granada area.
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The El Portillo reservoir or El Portillo Dam is located on the Castril River, in the municipality of Castril, in the province of Granada. This reservoir belongs to the Guadalquivir Hydrographic Confederation, in the Granada area.
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It is the most important monument in the city. It was built in the Nasrid period between the 13th and 15th centuries and consists of a tower, two sections of wall, a cistern and a parapet next to it.
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Baza is a city whose municipal area is the largest in the province of Granada, whose population centers depend on it: Baúl (where the section of the greenway begins), La Jamula and Benacebada.
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Everything is going well until the Vía Verde draws a large arc towards the south, enters the large channel of the Rambla de Baza and the Caniles iron bridge appears. The central planks have disappeared and you have to walk carefully along the sides. A sign at the entrance to the bridge recommends the parallel lane to avoid unnecessary risks. The tall chimney of the old Nuestra Señora de las Mercedes sugar factory announces the arrival at the Caniles station, which had an important weight in railway trade from its inauguration, in 1894, until the middle of the 20th century, when the decline of the road that connected Andalusia and the Levant. The buildings have been restored and converted into the Geodiversity Interpretation Center of the Granada Altiplano. In Baza you have to leave the route of the Greenway and visit the historical complex, passing by the Fuente de los Caños Dorados, the Plaza Mayor, the Barrio de San Juan, the alleys of the Jewish quarter, the Old Butcher Shops, the Arrabal de Marzuela , even entering the Arab Baths, and taking the opportunity to have some local delicacies and recover energy for the rest of the stage.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes around Embalse del Negratín?
The terrain around Embalse del Negratín is diverse, featuring mostly paved surfaces with varying elevation gains. You'll encounter dramatic badlands, deep canyons, and stunning turquoise waters of the reservoir. Many routes include both uphill and downhill sections, providing an engaging experience for road cyclists.
Are there road cycling routes suitable for different fitness levels?
Yes, the area offers a range of road cycling routes catering to various fitness levels. While there are no easy routes listed, you can find 6 moderate and 5 difficult routes. For example, the Castillo de Freila – Zújar loop from Zújar is a moderate 30.5 km ride, while the Negratín Reservoir – El Portillo Reservoir loop from Bácor is a challenging 88 km route.
What natural features or landmarks can I see while road cycling in the region?
The region is rich in unique natural features. You can cycle past the surreal turquoise waters of the reservoir, dramatic badlands, and impressive canyons, especially near the Gorafe Desert. Notable landmarks include the Hoodoos of Cuevas del Campo, which are striking geological formations, and the Roman Baths of Negratín (Zújar thermal pool), offering a unique relaxation spot.
Are there any circular road cycling routes available?
Yes, many routes around Embalse del Negratín are circular. For instance, the Plain of the Caves of Campo - circular via the Negratín Reservoir is a moderate 62.9 km loop that takes you through unique geological formations. Another option is the challenging Negratín Reservoir – Puerto de Tíscar loop from Bácor.
What are the best times of year for road cycling around Embalse del Negratín?
The region experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters. Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant temperatures for road cycling, avoiding the intense heat of summer. Winter can also be appealing, especially for visiting the thermal waters, but be prepared for cooler temperatures.
Can I find routes with panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada mountains?
Absolutely. From various points around Embalse del Negratín, cyclists can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada mountains, which are sometimes still snow-capped. The dramatic landscapes of the badlands and the reservoir itself also provide spectacular vistas.
What do other road cyclists say about the routes in Embalse del Negratín?
The road cycling routes in Embalse del Negratín are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 2 reviews. Cyclists often praise the striking turquoise waters, dramatic badlands, and the distant views of the Sierra Nevada, highlighting the unique backdrop for their rides.
Are there any villages or towns to explore along the road cycling routes?
Yes, some routes pass through or near charming local villages. For example, the Castillo de Freila – Zújar loop from Zújar provides an engaging ride through the area, passing by local villages like Freila, known for its cave houses and castle ruins.
What is the longest road cycling route available in the area?
One of the longest and most challenging routes is the Zújar – Negratín Reservoir loop from Casa Bella Teepees, which covers approximately 94.8 km and features significant elevation gain, typically taking around 4 hours and 37 minutes to complete.
Are there any viewpoints around the reservoir that are accessible by road bike?
Yes, there are several viewpoints around the reservoir, such as the Negratín Overlook, which offer spectacular panoramic views of the water and surrounding badlands. Many road cycling routes are designed to take advantage of these scenic spots.
How many road cycling routes are available around Embalse del Negratín?
There are 11 dedicated road cycling routes available around Embalse del Negratín on komoot. These include 6 moderate and 5 difficult options, offering a good variety for experienced road cyclists.
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