Orellana la Vieja and Castillo de Puebla de Alcocer Loop

This challenging racebike tour, covering approximately 120 kilometers with over 1400 meters of elevation gain, typically takes around 5 hours and 43 minutes to complete. This duration is for cycling time only and does not include stops.

While the route is designed for racebikes and Orellana la Vieja is a cycle tourism hub, it's important to note that the ascent to Castillo de Puebla de Alcocer may involve an old stone road, and a section connecting Puebla de Alcocer to Orellana la Vieja is described as a 'well-marked, passable, sand track.' These sections could be challenging for typical road bicycles. The rest of the route generally follows secondary roads.

You can typically find parking in Orellana La Vieja, which serves as the starting and ending point for this circular tour. Specific parking areas for cyclists are usually available within the town, often near the main square or public facilities.

The route features diverse terrain, including extensive oak forests (dehesas), meadows, olive groves, and a mix of river valley and plain landscapes. Be prepared for varied surfaces, especially near Puebla de Alcocer Castle, where you might encounter older stone or sand tracks.

You'll cycle through the beautiful Regional Interest Zone Embalse de Orellana y Sierra de Pela. The route skirts the Orellana Reservoir, the largest freshwater reservoir in Extremadura, and offers panoramic views of the La Serena Reservoir from the castle. The area is rich in biodiversity, recognized as a Site of Community Importance (SCI) and a Special Protection Area for Birds (SPA).

The best time to cycle in Extremadura, including this route, is typically during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) months. During these periods, temperatures are milder and more pleasant for cycling, avoiding the intense heat of summer.

Key landmarks include the historic 12th-13th century Castillo de Puebla de Alcocer, which offers wonderful panoramic views. You'll also pass through the settlement of Orellana de la Sierra and skirt the impressive Masatrigo Mountain and La Serena Reservoir.

Yes, sections of this route intersect with other official trails. You'll find it passes through parts of the Camino de los Mineros - Etapa 3, Camino Natural del Guadiana, and Camino del Condado de Belalcázar - Etapa 3, among others.

Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required for cycling through the Regional Interest Zone Embalse de Orellana y Sierra de Pela. However, as it is a protected area (SCI and SPA), always adhere to local regulations regarding nature conservation and respect the environment.

While dogs are often allowed in natural areas, this specific route is a long and difficult racebike tour. It's generally not recommended for dogs due to the distance, terrain, and potential for traffic on roads. If you do bring a dog, ensure it is well-trained, can keep up, and is always on a leash, especially in protected areas.

Given the 'difficult' rating and varied terrain, it's recommended to bring a well-maintained racebike, appropriate cycling apparel, a helmet, plenty of water and snacks, a repair kit, and navigation tools. Consider tires that can handle potentially rougher sections, especially if you plan to tackle the approach to Puebla de Alcocer Castle.

Yes, both Orellana La Vieja and Puebla de Alcocer offer options for food and accommodation. As you pass through these towns, you can find cafes, restaurants, and places to stay, which are good spots to refuel or break up your journey.