The Three Passes of Gredos

This route is classified as difficult, designed for experienced road cyclists. It covers approximately 92.4 km with a significant elevation gain of over 2,100 meters, traversing three challenging mountain passes: Puerto de Mijares, Serranillos Pass, and Puerto de Pedro Bernardo. The climb up Puerto de Mijares, especially from the south side, is particularly demanding, known as one of the toughest in Castile and León.

The route is a circular tour starting from Lanzahíta. While specific parking details for cyclists in Lanzahíta aren't provided, it's generally a good practice to look for public parking areas within the village. As a starting point for a challenging cycling route, Lanzahíta is well-positioned for access to the Sierra de Gredos passes.

You can expect significant mountainous terrain with considerable elevation gains and descents. The route features well-maintained asphalt roads typical for road cycling, but the gradients can be steep, especially on the ascents of the three ports. The Sierra de Gredos is known for its challenging climbs and winding mountain roads.

The primary highlights are the three iconic mountain passes themselves: Puerto de Mijares, Serranillos Pass, and Puerto de Pedro Bernardo. These passes offer stunning natural landscapes and panoramic vistas of the Sierra de Gredos. The views from the top of each pass are often cited as a major reward for the arduous climbs.

The best time to cycle this route is typically during the spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) months. During these periods, the weather is generally milder, avoiding the intense heat of summer and the potential for snow or very cold temperatures in winter. Always check the local weather forecast before heading out, especially for mountain passes.

Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required for road cycling on public roads through the Sierra de Gredos. However, always respect local regulations, especially concerning protected natural areas. This route primarily uses public roads connecting the villages and passes.

While the route traverses several villages, including Lanzahíta, Pedro Bernardo, and others, specific services like dedicated cyclist cafes are not guaranteed. It's advisable to carry sufficient water and nutrition. You may find small shops or bars in the villages for refreshments, but planning your stops in advance or carrying your own supplies is recommended for this challenging route.

Yes, this route incorporates sections of several recognized cycling climbs (CIMAs) in the Ávila province. You will ride along parts of the [CIMA AV10] Mijares * Gavilanes, [CIMA AV12] Pedro Bernardo * CL-501, [CIMA AV12] Pedro Bernardo * Lanzahíta, and [CIMA AV04] Serranillos * Puente del Morisco, among others. These are popular segments for cyclists seeking challenging ascents.

Given the route's difficulty and length, you should bring a well-maintained racebike, appropriate cycling attire, helmet, sufficient water and energy gels/bars, a repair kit (spare tube, pump, tire levers), and a first-aid kit. A GPS device is highly recommended for navigation, as routes are not always signposted. Don't forget sunscreen and sunglasses.

The Puerto de Pedro Bernardo is a significant climb in the Sierra de Gredos, recognized for its inclusion in La Vuelta a España in 2019. While generally considered 'manageable' compared to Mijares, it still features a hard ascent from the CL-501 road to the village of Pedro Bernardo, offering a rewarding challenge and beautiful views.