Monegros Desert and Charterhouse Trail

The route starts and ends in Sariñena. You can typically find parking within the town, especially near the starting point at Calle del Cine, Sariñena. Specific parking areas are usually available in the town center.

While primarily a road cycling route, it's important to know that some segments are unpaved. This means you'll encounter a mix of asphalt and potentially gravel or dirt tracks, which can be challenging for standard road bikes. The Monegros region is known for varied surfaces.

This route takes you through the unique semi-desert landscape of Los Monegros, with its arid terrain and ochre colors. A significant highlight is the Sariñena Lagoon, one of Spain's largest lagoons and a vital wetland for aquatic birds. You'll also pass by historical sites such as the Charterhouse of Our Lady of Las Fuentes and the Church of San Miguel Arcángel of Castelflorite.

This route is approximately 72.3 kilometers long and typically takes around 3 hours and 2 minutes to complete on a race bike, depending on your pace and stops.

This is classified as a moderate road cycling route, requiring good fitness due to its length and elevation gain (around 560 meters). The presence of unpaved sections adds to its moderate difficulty, making it less suitable for absolute beginners but manageable for cyclists with some experience.

The Monegros desert can get very hot in summer. Spring and autumn are generally the best times to cycle this route, offering more pleasant temperatures for a comfortable ride through the semi-desert landscape and for observing birdlife at the Sariñena Lagoon.

The Sariñena Lagoon is a designated Wildlife Refuge and Special Protection Area for Birds. You can expect exceptional birdwatching opportunities, with over 200 species observed there. The unique semi-desert ecosystem of Monegros also hosts a high number of endemic species.

While dogs are generally allowed on public paths, it's advisable to keep them on a leash, especially around the Sariñena Lagoon, which is a protected area for birds. The unpaved sections and potential for varied terrain might also be challenging for some dogs.

No specific permits or entrance fees are required to cycle this route or access the general Monegros desert area. However, always respect local regulations, especially within protected zones like the Sariñena Lagoon.

Yes, this route briefly intersects with sections of the Camino del Pesquero and the Camino de Santiago.

The route starts and ends in Sariñena, where you can find cafes, pubs, and other amenities. Along the route itself, especially through the more rural and desert-like sections, facilities may be scarce, so it's recommended to carry sufficient water and snacks.