The best road cycling routes around El Vellón
4.8
(25)
4,666
riders
81
rides
Road cycling routes around El Vellón traverse the undulating topography of the Sierra Norte of Madrid, within the Jarama river basin. The region features rolling hills adorned with holm oaks and junipers, providing varied terrain for cyclists. Routes offer views of the Sierra Norte and Cuerda Larga mountain ranges, with the Pedrezuela Reservoir also presenting tranquil settings for rides. The area's diverse landscapes include natural spaces like "Los Quebraones" and historical water channels.
Best road cycling routes around El Vellón
- The most popular road cycling route is El Molar, Colmenar Viejo, Guadalix de la Sierra, El Vellón – circular route, a 45.3 miles (72.9 km) trail that takes 3 hours 39 minutes to complete. This difficult route offers extensive views across the Sierra Norte.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is El Molar, El Vellon, Torrelaguna, El Berrueco - circular route, a difficult 37.4 miles (60.2 km) path. This route navigates through rolling hills and connects several historical towns in the region.
- Local road cyclists also love the View of El Atazar Reservoir – El Berrueco Watchtower loop from Caraquiz, a 35.7 miles (57.4 km) trail leading through areas with reservoir views and historical watchtowers, often completed in about 2 hours 39 minutes.
- Road cycling around El Vellón is defined by undulating topography, rolling hills, and views of the Pedrezuela Reservoir. The network offers options for different ability levels, from moderate to difficult.
- The routes in El Vellón are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from more than 10 reviews. More than 3000 road cyclists have used komoot to explore El Vellón's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
4.5
(2)
29
riders
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
38
riders
60.2km
03:01
950m
950m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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112
riders
71.2km
03:49
1,080m
1,080m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
5.0
(1)
76
riders
42.4km
02:02
570m
580m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
75
riders
80.9km
04:38
1,610m
1,610m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Tips from the Community
It is located in the Sierra de Guadarrama mountain range, between the municipalities of Miraflores de la Sierra and Rascafría, in the Community of Madrid. From Miraflores de la Sierra (1200m), the route ascends approximately 600m over 10km (average gradient 4–6%), and after reaching the summit, it descends 13km to Rascafría (1150m) with a gradient of 4.5–7%.
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0
The **Centennial Yew of Canencia** is a unique tree of great botanical and landscape value in the Sierra de Guadarrama, in the Community of Madrid. It is not just a specimen, but part of a small population of yews that has survived in an exceptional setting, the Canencia Birch Forest. ### Characteristics and Location * **Species:** *Taxus baccata* (common yew). * **Age:** The most notable specimen is estimated to be between **400 and 500 years old**. Its longevity is one of the most fascinating characteristics of this species. * **Dimensions:** It has a trunk of considerable girth (around 4.10 meters) and a wide crown about 15 meters in diameter, which demonstrates its advanced age and health. * **Location:** It is located in the **Canencia Birch Forest** area, very close to the Canencia Pass. It is often included in the popular hiking trail known as "The Birch Forest Path" or the "Mojonavalle Waterfall Path." It is located near the Sestil del Maíllo stream. * **Environment:** The yew coexists with other unique species such as birch, holly, and Scots pines. This humid and protected microclimate has allowed the survival of these trees, which are relics of colder, wetter times. ### Importance and Uniqueness * **Botanical Value:** Yews are extremely slow-growing trees and are considered almost immortal. In Spain, they are a protected species, and finding such ancient specimens is a rarity. * **Landscape Value:** The Canencia yew stands out for its majestic appearance in the midst of a very picturesque forest, attracting numerous hikers and nature lovers. * **History and legend:** Like many ancient yew trees, it is steeped in legend. In many European cultures, they were considered sacred trees for their longevity and the toxicity of their parts (except for the pulp of their fruit). ### Access and routes To visit the yew, the most common route is the **Birch Forest Path**, which starts from the Canencia Pass itself. The path is signposted. You walk along a forest track to a detour that leads directly to the Chorrera de Mojonavalle, and a little further on, you will find the yew tree. Despite its age, the tree is increasingly visible and accessible, but it is essential to be respectful and not damage its surroundings to preserve this natural monument.
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Fountain that you will find in the Puerto de Canencia.
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Port suitable for beginners who want to get in shape
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Good place to stop before starting to climb the hill. Good product, very good people.
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To refill the bottle and replenish strength
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around El Vellón?
There are over 70 road cycling routes around El Vellón, offering a wide range of options for cyclists. These include 4 easy routes, 38 moderate, and 29 difficult options, ensuring there's something for every skill level.
What kind of terrain can I expect when road cycling in El Vellón?
Road cycling in El Vellón features an undulating and somewhat rugged topography, characterized by rolling hills adorned with holm oaks and junipers. You can expect varied terrain with picturesque views of the Sierra Norte and Cuerda Larga mountain ranges, as well as tranquil settings around the Pedrezuela Reservoir.
What do other cyclists enjoy most about road cycling in El Vellón?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 10 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, the challenging yet rewarding climbs, and the scenic views of the Sierra Norte and reservoirs.
Are there any circular road cycling routes starting near El Vellón?
Yes, El Vellón is well-suited for circular road cycling routes. A popular option is the El Molar, Colmenar Viejo, Guadalix de la Sierra, El Vellón – circular route, which offers extensive views across the Sierra Norte. Another favorite is the El Molar, El Vellon, Torrelaguna, El Berrueco - circular route, navigating through rolling hills and connecting historical towns.
What are some notable landmarks or natural features to see along road cycling routes in El Vellón?
Cyclists can encounter several interesting points. The Hervidero Waterfall and El Mesto Weir are beautiful natural and historical landmarks. You can also enjoy views of the Pedrezuela Reservoir. For historical sights, the Atalaya de El Vellón and Atalaya de El Molar offer magnificent panoramic views of the Sierra Norte.
Are there any routes that offer views of reservoirs?
Absolutely. The View of El Atazar Reservoir – El Berrueco Watchtower loop from Caraquiz is a great option, leading through areas with reservoir views. Additionally, many routes provide tranquil settings and views of the Pedrezuela Reservoir.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in El Vellón?
The Mediterranean climate of El Vellón makes spring and autumn particularly vibrant and pleasant for road cycling. During these seasons, the botanical diversity is rich, and the temperatures are generally more favorable than the heat of summer or the cooler winter months.
Are there any family-friendly road cycling routes in the El Vellón area?
While many routes in El Vellón are moderate to difficult, there are 4 easy road cycling routes available that could be suitable for families. These routes typically feature less elevation gain and are designed for a more relaxed pace, allowing families to enjoy the scenic surroundings.
Can I find road cycling routes that connect El Vellón with nearby towns?
Yes, the region features routes that connect El Vellón with neighboring towns. For instance, the El Molar, El Vellon, Torrelaguna, El Berrueco - circular route is a great example, navigating through rolling hills and linking several historical towns in the region.
What are some of the more challenging road cycling routes around El Vellón?
For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, routes like the El Molar, Colmenar Viejo, Guadalix de la Sierra, El Vellón – circular route and the El Molar, El Vellon, Torrelaguna, El Berrueco - circular route are classified as difficult. These routes feature significant elevation gains and longer distances, providing a demanding yet rewarding experience.
Are there any historical sites along the road cycling routes?
Yes, the area is rich in cultural and historical points of interest. Cyclists can explore routes that pass by traditional stone architecture, including the 15th-16th century Church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción and a Gothic picota in the town square. The Atalaya de El Vellón, an Arab watchtower, also offers historical significance and panoramic views.
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