5.0
(1)
616
riders
19
rides
Road cycling around Lúcar, nestled in Almería's Sierra de las Estancias, offers diverse terrain for cyclists. The region features mountainous landscapes with varying degrees of difficulty, from moderate paths to demanding climbs. Riders can expect panoramic views of the Almanzora Valley and the Sierra de los Filabres. Roads are generally well-maintained with smooth asphalt and minimal traffic, providing serene cycling experiences.
Last updated: July 10, 2026
30
riders
68.7km
04:09
1,720m
1,720m
This challenging 42.7-mile road cycling loop from Purchena climbs 5630 feet to the Calar Alto Observatory, offering spectacular views.
5.0
(1)
336
riders
136km
08:19
3,660m
3,660m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

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18
riders
75.4km
04:40
1,980m
1,980m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
15
riders
81.2km
04:18
1,440m
1,440m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
10
riders
36.1km
01:42
420m
430m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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El Alto de Velefique is one of Almería's most notable ascents, known for its long ramps, quiet roads, and a series of well-spaced hairpin turns. The gradients are consistent, often between 4% and 5%, with occasional sections exceeding 10%, making the climb a sustained yet achievable effort. The ascent offers sweeping views of the Sierra de los Filabres and a sense of isolation ideal for focusing on your pedaling. Its layout and landscape are reminiscent of the famous Alpe d’Huez, although it is a less-trafficked and much quieter route.
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.. totally stunning road through empty yet stunning desert landscape.. some part of the climb are pretty nasty gradients
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breathtaking place ... so extraterrestrialy beautiful and interesting ..also totally isolated
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its a stunner ... form Velefique side is really demanding
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Easier climb to Alto Velefique ... still so great and empty ... the road is in great condition
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This is on a great little winding, up-and-down road between Cantoria and Fines. The Ermita is directly on the road so no detour needed to take a photo.
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The Calar Alto plateau is located at an altitude of 2,168 metres, in the heart of the Sierra de los Filabres. Its clear sky allows us to see the stars at night, which is why this peak houses the largest observatory in Europe.
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There are 15 road cycling routes around Lúcar documented on komoot, offering a range of experiences. These include 5 moderate routes and 10 more challenging options, catering to various fitness levels.
Road cycling around Lúcar, nestled in Almería's Sierra de las Estancias, features diverse mountainous terrain. You can expect routes with varying degrees of difficulty, from moderate paths to demanding climbs, all offering panoramic views of the Almanzora Valley and the Sierra de los Filabres. The roads are generally well-maintained with smooth asphalt and minimal traffic, providing serene cycling experiences.
While many routes in the Lúcar area offer challenging climbs, there are 5 moderate road cycling routes available. An example of a moderate route is the Castillo De Serón – Cela Spring loop from Tíjola, which covers 52.2 km and takes approximately 2 hours 29 minutes to complete.
For experienced road cyclists seeking a challenge, there are 10 difficult routes around Lúcar. The Calar Alto Loop from Purchena is a popular difficult route, spanning 68.7 km with significant climbs. Another demanding option is the Velefique climb – Climb to Alto de Velefique loop from Sierro, known for its dramatic mountain scenery over 81.6 km.
The region around Lúcar is rich in panoramic views. Cyclists can expect sweeping vistas of the Almanzora Valley and the Sierra de los Filabres. Notable viewpoints include La Santa, Lucar, and Pastor viewpoints, which offer stunning perspectives of the surrounding landscapes during your ride.
Yes, several routes pass by or near interesting landmarks. For instance, the Sierro Castle – Iron Bridge of Cantoria loop from Sierro leads through varied terrain with historical landmarks. You might also encounter natural features like the El Estrecho de Urrácal gorge or the Aqueduct near Purchena.
The Almería province, where Lúcar is located, is known for its favorable climate for cycling. While specific recommendations depend on personal preference, the region generally offers good conditions outside of the hottest summer months, with mild winters and pleasant spring and autumn weather making it ideal for road cycling.
Many of the road cycling routes around Lúcar are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Calar Alto Loop from Purchena and the Las Menas Mining Village – Views of Bacares loop from Tíjola, providing convenient options for exploration.
The komoot community frequently praises the region's diverse mountainous terrain, the challenging yet rewarding climbs, and the stunning panoramic views. Cyclists also appreciate the quiet, well-maintained roads that allow for serene rides through breathtaking scenery.
Yes, the region boasts unique natural features. The Piedra Lobera Natural Monument, a spectacular limestone formation, provides a dramatic backdrop to some routes. Additionally, the Balsa de Cela, a spring of thermal waters, offers an interesting point of interest for cyclists exploring the area.
The road cycling routes around Lúcar vary significantly. Distances range from approximately 42 km to over 81 km. Elevation gains are also substantial, with routes like the Velefique climb – Climb to Alto de Velefique loop from Sierro featuring over 2,100 meters of ascent, reflecting the mountainous nature of the region.


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