The best cycling routes around Macael
4.4
(9)
334
riders
38
rides
Touring cycling routes around Macael are situated within the Sierra de los Filabres, a mountain range characterized by dramatic hills and valleys. The landscape features reforested woodlands with holm oaks and pine trees, providing varied terrain for cyclists. The region is also known for its marble industry, with routes sometimes passing by active quarries and historical sites. This area offers a blend of challenging ascents and scenic descents through a rugged, yet green environment.
Best touring cycling routes around Macael
…Last updated: June 26, 2026
5.0
(4)
31
riders
41.1km
02:34
260m
260m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
30
riders
42.6km
02:55
500m
500m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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18
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
riders
111km
07:32
1,770m
1,770m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The things you can show off! 🤷♂️😊
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Inspiring, I bought a smaller model for home use here
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Macael's hallmark, beautiful and impressive.
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The station has been renovated and now houses a cozy restaurant with a terrace.
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VIA VERDE DEL VALLE DE ALMONZORA is a spectacular route of a total of 98 km through the southeast of the peninsula between the highlands of Granada in the Baza area towards the district of Almendricos, already in the region of Murcia, and passes through the Almanzora Valley in Almería. A route that for decades crossed a railway line that transported tons of iron and other merchandise.
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The towns of Fines and Olula del Río are an encounter with the culture of marble; figures and pieces of marble with inscriptions and inspiring phrases appear on the old railroad track. In Olula there is the famous giant head of a woman, on the other side of the road, you have to be careful not to pass it by. And nearby is the town of Macael for those interested in visiting the “white gold” quarries of the Almanzora Valley. Purchena is far from the road, it is a town with an Andalusian feel, with narrow streets with whitewashed facades at the foot of the remains of an old Muslim fortress from the Nasrid era. The railway continues to trace the slopes of the valley and cross seasonal boulevards over imposing stone bridges to the Tíjola station, which preserves a train engine from the glorious era of the mining railway and the railway buildings. The station is a bar with food service and a terrace on one of the platforms. In Los Canos there are remains of the old iron ore loading dock. The carts arrived loaded with material by aerial cables from the mining sites and by simple gravity they filled the train cars that were in the tunnels located under the loading dock.
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The cycling trip is distributed in three established stages mainly because each day is totally different in landscapes, history and content. The first day is the Vía Verde Valle del Almanzora Natural Trail, in the province of Almería, full of railway constructions, fertile meadows of orchards and fruit trees, marble sculptures and remains of the iron ore culture that for a century was produced by tons. towards the ports of Murcia. The second stage is the Sierra de Baza Greenway, between El Hijate and the famous iron bridge of Baúl, traveling through the steppe landscapes of the Baza plateau and the edge of the filmy badlands of the Gorafe desert, famous for its magical beauty. and because in the middle of the last century they were the setting for countless spaghetti westerns. And the third day seems like another world, starting from Gor the gravel adventure enters the peaks and mountains of the Sierra de Baza through immense pine forests and oak forests to the radars of Calar Alto, exceeding the level of two thousand meters of altitude with extraordinary views of the northern slope of the Sierra Nevada, closing the loop at the Tíjola station and a section back to Arboleas along the Natural Trail. The beginning is in the San Roque neighborhood of the municipality of Arboleas, at the beginning of the conditioned section of the Almanzora Valley on the route of the Guadix-Almendricos Greenway Natural Trail. The place is a simple road crossing with a guardhouse of the old railway level crossing. The continuation of the old mining railway towards Murcia through Zurgena and Huércal-Overa is not yet ready for bicycle traffic. The small Arboleas railway stop is in the direction of Baza about eight hundred meters later, arranged with gardens on the platforms, the Natural Trail panel, signs with names and distances and a good place to park, it can be an alternative starting point. The residential neighborhoods of Las Caleras, La Perla and El Prado disguise the whitish and steppe environment of the valley slopes, formed mainly by hills of marl, gypsum and other quirks of geology that favor the development of very exclusive and curious plants known as soap dishes.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Macael?
There are over 35 touring cycling routes around Macael, offering a wide range of options for exploring the Sierra de los Filabres. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars.
What are the difficulty levels of touring cycling routes in Macael?
The routes around Macael cater to various skill levels. While there is 1 easy route, the majority are more challenging, with 11 moderate and 27 difficult routes. This reflects the mountainous terrain of the Sierra de los Filabres, known for its demanding ascents and descents.
When is the best time of year for touring cycling in Macael?
The Sierra de los Filabres offers different experiences throughout the year. While specific recommendations depend on personal preference, the region can experience snow on its peaks and roads in winter, offering a unique, albeit challenging, cycling environment. Spring and autumn generally provide more temperate conditions for touring.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Macael?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Macael are designed as loops. For example, you can enjoy the Cantoria Tunnel – Almanzora loop from Estación de Fines-Olula, a moderate 41.1 km ride, or the more difficult Aqueduct near Purchena – Old Tíjola train Station loop from Macael, spanning 42.6 km.
What natural features can I expect to see while cycling in Macael?
Cycling in Macael takes you through the dramatic hills and valleys of the Sierra de los Filabres. You'll encounter reforested woodlands abundant with holm oaks and pine trees. From certain vantage points, you might even catch distant views of Europe's only desert, the Tabernas desert. Notable natural highlights include El Estrecho de Urrácal, a striking gorge, and the Cueva de la Paloma.
Are there any historical or cultural landmarks along the touring cycling routes in Macael?
Macael is famously known as the 'Marble Village,' and its routes often reflect this heritage. You might pass by active marble quarries or historical sites related to the industry. The Fines-Olula Station and the Old Tíjola train Station are examples of man-made landmarks you could encounter, hinting at the region's past.
Can I see any waterfalls or unique geological formations?
Yes, the region offers some interesting natural sights. You can find the Fuente del Huevo Waterfall, a beautiful natural monument. Additionally, the area features unique geological formations like the El Estrecho de Urrácal gorge, which showcases the dramatic landscape of the Sierra de los Filabres.
Where can I find impressive viewpoints on the touring cycling routes?
The mountainous terrain of the Sierra de los Filabres provides numerous opportunities for stunning views. Highlights such as the View of Peñón de Cóbdar and the Tetica de Bacares Summit offer panoramic vistas. Many routes also provide distant views of the Tabernas desert, adding a unique visual dimension to your ride.
What kind of terrain can I expect on Macael's touring cycling routes?
Macael's touring cycling routes primarily traverse the Sierra de los Filabres, meaning you can expect a mix of challenging climbs and exhilarating descents. While many roads are well-paved, some segments may be unpaved, offering varied surfaces. The landscape is characterized by dramatic hills and valleys, with reforested woodlands providing a green contrast.
Are there any particularly challenging climbs for experienced touring cyclists?
Absolutely. The Sierra de los Filabres is renowned for its demanding ascents. The Climb to Alto de Velefique is considered the most iconic climb in southern Spain, featuring 20 hairpin turns over 13 km to an elevation of 1,820 meters with an average gradient of 7.8%. This climb offers a real test for any cyclist.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Macael?
The touring cycling routes in Macael are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.5 stars from 8 reviews. Cyclists often praise the dramatic landscapes, the challenging yet rewarding climbs, and the unique blend of natural beauty with the region's marble heritage.
Are there options for family-friendly touring cycling in Macael?
While many routes in Macael are rated moderate to difficult due to the mountainous terrain, there is at least 1 easy route available. Families looking for gentler rides should seek out routes specifically marked as easy, keeping in mind that the region's general character involves significant elevation changes.
Is public transport available to access touring cycling routes in Macael?
Information regarding specific public transport links directly to the start points of all touring cycling routes is limited. It is advisable to research local bus services or consider driving to a suitable starting point, especially given the rural and mountainous nature of the Sierra de los Filabres.
Where can I find parking near the touring cycling routes in Macael?
Parking availability will vary depending on your chosen starting point. For routes beginning in or near towns like Macael or Estación de Fines-Olula, you can typically find public parking areas. It's recommended to check specific locations on a map or local guides for the most convenient parking options near your desired route.
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