Almadén de la Plata and Melonares Reservoir Loop

This circular touring cycling route, covering approximately 48.4 km, is estimated to take around 4 hours and 17 minutes of active cycling time. However, allow for additional time to enjoy the scenic viewpoints and explore Almadén de la Plata.

The terrain is quite varied. You'll encounter sections of the Vía Verde de la Sierra Norte, which is mostly flat and easy with a mixed surface. However, venturing beyond the Vía Verde, especially on roads connecting to towns like Cazalla de la Sierra, involves narrow, mountainous asphalt roads with significant elevation changes, including climbs like the Puerto Padrona-Puerto Quejigo. Near the Embalse de Melonares, you'll find well-surfaced roads with a steep but comfortable final ascent towards Almadén de la Plata.

Given its 'difficult' rating, significant distance (48.4 km), and considerable elevation gain (972 meters), this route is generally not recommended for beginners. It combines easy greenway sections with more demanding, mountainous road cycling that requires a good level of fitness and cycling experience.

The route is circular and starts from Almadén de la Plata, which serves as an excellent base. You should be able to find parking within the town, as it's a common starting point for exploring the Sierra Norte de Sevilla Natural Park.

You'll experience the diverse beauty of the Sierra Norte de Sevilla Natural Park, characterized by cork oak and holm oak forests, particularly along the Vía Verde. Expect views of fertile lands in the Viar Valley, wild dehesa, and expansive water views of the Melonares Reservoir. The route also passes through charming landscapes with white villages.

Key highlights include the Section Parque Natural Sierra Norte de Sevilla itself, the Cerro del Calvario Viewpoint, and various scenic spots offering Views from the path to Almadén. You'll also get stunning perspectives of the reservoir from the View of Melonares Reservoir and the View of Melonares Reservoir from the Climb. The Vía Verde de la Sierra Norte, with its old railway tunnels and restored stations, is also a notable feature.

Yes, this route incorporates sections of several other trails. You'll find yourself on parts of the Sendero de Sierra Morena, Transandalus, Mtb Vía de la Plata, Vía de la Plata hiking - 01 Sevilla to Merida, Camino a Almadén, and Los Arrianales.

The Sierra Norte de Sevilla Natural Park is best enjoyed in the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these seasons, temperatures are milder and more pleasant for cycling, and the natural landscape is at its most vibrant. Summers can be very hot, making cycling challenging.

While the Sierra Norte de Sevilla Natural Park generally allows dogs, it's crucial to keep them on a leash, especially in protected areas and near wildlife. Always ensure your dog is well-behaved and that you clean up after them. Be mindful of the route's difficulty and length when bringing a dog.

Generally, there are no entrance fees to access the Sierra Norte de Sevilla Natural Park for activities like cycling. However, if you plan any specific activities or want to access certain restricted areas, it's always advisable to check with the park's official website or visitor centers for any specific regulations or permits that might apply.

Almadén de la Plata, your starting and ending point, offers amenities like restaurants and cafes where you can resupply or enjoy a meal. The town is also on the Silver Route of the Camino de Santiago, so you might find pilgrim's menus. Beyond Almadén, options might be limited, so it's wise to carry sufficient water and snacks for the duration of your ride.

Absolutely. The sections utilizing the Vía Verde de la Sierra Norte offer a unique, easy-going experience on a converted old railway line, complete with tunnels and restored stations. In contrast, the climbs and descents on the mountainous asphalt roads, particularly towards the reservoir, provide a more challenging and rewarding cycling experience with panoramic views. The contrast between these two types of terrain is a defining feature of this route.