Empty Mountains: Guadalaviar Loop

The route starts and ends in Guadalaviar. You should be able to find parking within the village, which serves as a convenient base for this circular tour.

This route primarily features gravel forest roads and doubletracks, with some paved sections. Be prepared for unpaved and potentially difficult segments that might require you to push your bike. The initial sections near the Tajo headwaters are described as quite complicated, with narrow and hilly paths.

You'll pass by several notable spots, including the symbolic Source of the River Tagus. Other highlights include the Forest House Refuge, a Forest Shelter and Picnic Area by the Tagus River, and another Picnic Area.

No, this route is rated as difficult. It involves significant elevation gains and is part of the larger Montañas Vacías network, known for its challenging nature. The remoteness and considerable climbing make it unsuitable for beginners. A gravel bike with wide wheels or a mountain bike is recommended.

While the route can be enjoyed in warmer months, be aware that even in summer, mornings can be very cold, requiring warm clothing. The region offers stunning scenery year-round, but spring and autumn might provide more moderate temperatures for cycling.

Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to cycle this route or access the natural areas it traverses, including the Serranía de Cuenca Natural Park. However, always respect local regulations, especially concerning wildlife and protected environments.

Given the route's remote nature and the abundance of wildlife, it's generally advisable to keep dogs on a leash to protect both your pet and the local fauna. Always ensure your dog is well-behaved and capable of handling the distance and terrain. Check local park regulations for any specific restrictions.

You'll experience incredibly varied and spectacular landscapes, from deep river canyons with crystal-clear turquoise waters to high-elevation plateaus and dense forests. The area is rich in wildlife, often described as a "European safari park," with common sightings of deer, wild boar, ibex, hares, foxes, and vultures. The skies are also among the cleanest in Spain.

Yes, the section along the Tajo River, particularly near its source, offers numerous opportunities for wild swimming in its crystal-clear turquoise waters. It's a refreshing highlight, especially during warmer weather.

Yes, this route is part of the larger MontañasVacías bikepacking network (covering about 70% of this specific route). It also intersects with sections of the Camino Natural del Tajo (28%) and other local trails like [CIMA TE12] El Portillo (11%) and Rubiales - Orihuela del Tremedal (9%).

Given the route's difficulty and remoteness, you should bring a well-maintained gravel or mountain bike, plenty of water, and sufficient food. Resupply points are infrequent, with up to 70 kilometers between stops in some sections. Warm clothing, including winter gloves and jackets, is essential even in summer due to cold mornings. A repair kit and navigation tools are also highly recommended.