Yelso de Hayas Menhir Loop from Laredo

This route is classified as a hard mountain bike ride, recommended for riders with good fitness and advanced riding skills. You should be prepared for technical sections with steep ascents and descents, loose gravel, and rocky areas. Some parts may even require dismounting and pushing your bike.

The trail offers a diverse surface, including approximately 20.8 km of unpaved tracks, 8.73 km of paved tracks, 3.35 km of asphalt, 1.40 km of narrow trails (singletrack), and 282 meters of natural paths. You'll ride through areas with eucalyptus and pine trees, and encounter challenging sections with loose gravel and rocks.

The route is rich in scenery and historical significance. Key highlights include the ancient Menhir Yelso de Hayas, a 3-meter tall megalithic monument. You'll also pass by the Gypsum Loader and enjoy impressive coastal panoramas, such as the View of Laredo Beach, as well as views of the Cantabrian mountains and Guriezo's natural landscapes.

Yes, this is a circular route, meaning you will end up back at your starting point in Laredo.

As the route starts and ends in Laredo, you can look for public parking options within Laredo. Specific parking areas near the coast or the town center would be suitable starting points for this circular trail.

To enjoy the diverse scenery and challenging terrain, spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions with milder temperatures. Summer can be quite warm, especially on exposed sections, while winter might bring colder weather and potentially wet, muddy trails, increasing the difficulty.

Yes, the route intersects with several other paths. You will find sections that overlap with the Northern Route (Cantabria), Senda del Litoral, Ruta de Carlos V, Camino de Liendo, Camino del Campillo, Calle Las Nuevas, Calle Escultor José Gragera, and Paseo Marítimo.

While dogs are generally allowed on many trails in the region, it's always best to keep them on a leash, especially in areas with wildlife or livestock. Given the technical difficulty of this particular mountain bike route, consider if it's suitable for your dog's fitness and ability to navigate challenging terrain.

Generally, no specific permits or entrance fees are required to access this mountain bike route or to ride within the Parque Natural de las Marismas de Santoña, Victoria y Joyel. However, always respect local regulations, especially concerning protected natural areas, and stay on marked trails.

Given the route's difficulty and length (over 33 km), it's crucial to be well-prepared. Bring plenty of water, energy snacks, a repair kit for your bike, appropriate protective gear (helmet, gloves), and navigation tools. Weather-appropriate clothing is also essential, as conditions can change.

The trail traverses a rich and varied landscape, including verdant forests, meadows, and wetlands characteristic of the Guriezo area and the wider Cantabrian region. You'll experience coastal views and inland mountainous terrain. While specific wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, the diverse habitats mean you might spot various bird species, small mammals, and local flora.