4.6
(98)
1,817
riders
148
rides
Touring cycling around Cubillos Del Sil, nestled in the El Bierzo region, offers a diverse landscape for cyclists. The area features varied terrain, from gentle hills to lush forests, and is characterized by the expansive Embalse de Bárcena reservoir and the course of the Sil River. Elevations include hills and peaks such as Los Navallos (1176 m) and Monte Meno, providing scenic climbs and panoramic viewpoints. The region's natural heritage and historical routes, including repurposed old railway lines, contribute to…
Last updated: July 7, 2026
10
riders
40.2km
02:52
690m
690m
This difficult 25.0-mile (40.2 km) touring bicycle route around Embalse de Bárcena offers scenic views and 2250 feet (686 metres) of elevati
16
riders
31.3km
02:32
360m
360m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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20
riders
32.5km
02:49
730m
730m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
10
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
riders
44.1km
03:08
600m
600m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The Lambrión Chupacandiles statue in Ponferrada is a bronze tribute to one of the most iconic figures of the local Semana Santa tradition. Installed in 2024 at the Church of San Andrés, the statue depicts a Nazareno in a black hooded robe, holding a bell—just as he parades through the city each year to announce the arrival of Holy Week. The figure, which originated in the 17th century, is linked to the Hermandad de Jesús Nazareno and takes its name from a legend that says he tasted wine and even oil from candlesticks along the way. Designed by Tomás Bañuelos and Soraya Triana, the sculpture has become a recognizable symbol of Ponferrada's religious heritage.
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Here you can see statues of children playing music
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A well constructed dam, interesting to stand on and look down.
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At the end of the 11th century, Osmundo, Bishop of Astorga, ordered the construction of a bridge (partly made of iron = pons ferrata) over the Sil for the pilgrims on the Way of St. James, near which a settlement was built. At the "pons ferrata", the iron bridge, the Knights Templar built a huge castle on a surface area of 160 x 90 m to protect the pilgrims on the Way of St. James. The medieval castle complex was inhabited by the Knights Templar from 1178 to 1312. Source: Wikipedia
5
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A great and scenic route. Good for enjoying and clearing your head.
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The Templars' heyday from the 12th to 14th centuries led to the construction of this mighty fortress, among other things to protect the pilgrims on the Way of St. James. The rampart on the city hill stands out impressively against the mountain backdrop and absolutely conforms to the stereotypical image of a knight's castle. It is sensationally well maintained and a feast for the eyes.
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The order, often referred to simply as the "Order of the Knights Templar," whose full name is "Poor Knights of Christ and of Solomon's Temple in Jerusalem," takes us mentally back to the 13th century. Founded in the Holy Land, it spread surprisingly quickly to many countries in Central Europe, and this castle complex in Ponferrada, northern Spain, was one of its numerous branches. The order gained notoriety through its dissolution in 1312 by the French king and the pope, and many of its members were burned at the stake as alleged heretics. The main reason for the dissolution, however, was not the members' human and religious misconduct (heresy), which was merely a pretext, but the legendary wealth of this order. King Philip IV of France primarily wanted to secure the treasures to bolster his coffers.
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Cubillos Del Sil offers a wide variety of touring cycling routes, with over 160 different options available. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy paths to more challenging ascents.
The terrain around Cubillos Del Sil is quite varied, ranging from gentle hills and lush forests to paths alongside the expansive Embalse de Bárcena reservoir and the Sil River. You'll encounter diverse topography, including notable peaks like Los Navallos (1176 m) and Monte Meno, which provide scenic climbs and panoramic viewpoints.
Yes, Cubillos Del Sil has several easy touring cycling routes. For instance, the area features repurposed old railway lines known as 'Vías Verdes Mineras,' which offer unique historical and natural journeys on generally flatter terrain. While specific easy routes aren't detailed in the guide, 11 of the available routes are classified as easy, making them suitable for less experienced riders.
Absolutely. For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, Cubillos Del Sil offers numerous difficult routes. Over 100 routes in the area are classified as difficult, featuring significant elevation gains and longer distances. An example is the Bárcena Reservoir Loop, which covers 40.2 km with over 680 meters of elevation gain.
The region is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. You can cycle past the expansive Bárcena Dam on the Sil River, enjoy panoramic views from View of the Bárcena Reservoir and the Compostilla II power plant, or explore historical sites like the Ponferrada Castle. Other points of interest include the Molinaseca Roman Bridge and various religious buildings such as the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Sorrows in Molinaseca.
Yes, many touring cycling routes in Cubillos Del Sil are designed as loops, offering convenient starting and ending points. Examples include the popular Bárcena Reservoir Loop, the Ponferrada Castle – Boeza Bridge loop, and the Hermitage of San Blas and San Roque – Compostilla loop.
The region's climate makes spring and autumn ideal for touring cycling, offering pleasant temperatures and vibrant landscapes. Summers can be warm, especially in July and August, while winters are generally mild but can have cooler, wetter conditions. Checking local weather forecasts before your trip is always recommended.
Yes, many touring cycling routes in Cubillos Del Sil, especially those starting from towns or popular attractions, offer convenient parking options. For example, the Ponferrada Castle – Boeza Bridge loop starts near Estadio Municipal El Toralín, where parking is typically available. Routes originating from Cubillos del Sil itself also usually have accessible parking.
The touring cycling routes around Cubillos Del Sil are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 100 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, picturesque views around the Embalse de Bárcena, and the blend of natural beauty with historical routes.
While specific 'family-friendly' routes are not explicitly detailed, the region's 'Vías Verdes Mineras' (greenways) are generally suitable for families due to their repurposed, often flatter railway paths. Additionally, some of the 11 easy routes available would likely be appropriate for families with children, offering a more relaxed cycling experience.
Many natural trails and paths in the Cubillos Del Sil area are generally dog-friendly, especially those away from urban centers. However, it's always advisable to keep your dog on a leash, especially in areas with wildlife or other cyclists, and to check for any specific local regulations or signage on individual routes regarding pets.
Yes, the region around Cubillos Del Sil is known for its vineyards, particularly the Godello variety. Cycling routes that traverse the eastern parts of the municipality, such as those leading towards Monte Meno, will take you through scenic areas where you can enjoy views of pine forests and vineyards, offering a unique cultural and natural experience.


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