Campo de Calatrava and Valle de Alcudia Loop

This route is classified as a "hard road ride" and is ideal for experienced road cyclists. It requires a very good level of fitness due to its substantial length of approximately 136 kilometers and a significant elevation gain of 1,110 meters.

While many roads in the Valle de Alcudia y Sierra Madrona region are generally well-paved, this demanding route may include varied surfaces. You can expect a mix of numbered regional roads, but also potentially unpaved sections like "caminos" (paths or tracks), "vías de servicio" (service roads), "cañadas" (livestock trails), and "cordeles" (paths). Be prepared for some challenging segments.

The estimated duration for this 136-kilometer route is around 5 hours and 47 minutes of active cycling time. However, this can vary significantly based on your fitness level, speed, and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery or rest.

The route starts and ends in Corral de Calatrava, making it a circular tour. While specific parking details for Corral de Calatrava are not provided, as a starting point for a long road cycling route, you would typically find public parking options within the town.

The route takes you through the picturesque Valle de Alcudia, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. You'll pass through settlements like Caracuel de Calatrava and the natural area of Valle de Alcudia. Other highlights include the Parish Church of Our Lady of the Assumption, Almodóvar del Campo and the Church of Our Lady of the Visitation.

The Valle de Alcudia region can experience hot summers. For a challenging route of this length, spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) generally offer the most pleasant temperatures for road cycling, avoiding the extreme heat of summer and potential chill of winter.

This is a long and demanding road cycling route. While dogs are generally allowed in natural areas, bringing a dog on a 136-kilometer racebike tour is not practical or recommended. This route is best enjoyed by cyclists without canine companions.

The route passes through the Valle de Alcudia, which is part of the Valle de Alcudia y Sierra Madrona Natural Park. Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required for cycling on public roads and established trails within the natural park. However, always respect local regulations and private property.

The route passes through several settlements, including Caracuel de Calatrava and Almodóvar del Campo. These towns would be your best bet for finding cafes, restaurants, or shops to refuel and rehydrate. It's always wise to carry sufficient water and snacks, especially on longer, more remote sections.

Yes, the route briefly intersects with sections of historical livestock trails. You'll encounter small portions of the Cañada Real Segoviana and the Cañada Real Soriana Oriental, which are traditional Spanish drovers' roads.

Given the route's length and difficulty, you should bring plenty of water, energy gels or bars, a repair kit (including spare tubes, pump, and tools), a first-aid kit, and appropriate clothing for varying weather conditions. A GPS device with the route loaded is highly recommended, as some sections might be less clearly marked.