Ricobayo Reservoir Loop Trail

The trail starts from Montamarta. You should be able to find parking within the village to begin your ride. Montamarta is also near a pilgrim's hostel in Granja de Moreruela, which might offer additional parking options.

This route is classified as moderate. While it is 100% cyclable, it involves undulating terrain with various ascents and descents, and some unpaved sections that can be challenging. It's best suited for well-prepared riders with some mountain biking experience, rather than absolute beginners.

You'll encounter a diverse mix of surfaces, including local and national roads with light traffic, as well as dirt tracks and trails. The path winds through cereal fields, holm oak forests, cistus shrubs, pastures, and meadows with ash trees and poplars, offering varied riding conditions.

The route offers several scenic highlights. You can enjoy a View of the Hermitage of Nuestra Señora del Castillo, a View of Montamarta and the Church of Nuestra Señora del Castillo, and extensive views of the reservoir from the View of Ricobayo Reservoir from Cañada Real Vía de la Plata. You'll also pass by the Old Manzanal Bridge and the impressive Ricobayo Dam.

The trail showcases a rich variety of Mediterranean flora, and the reservoir's appearance changes with water levels. Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant temperatures for mountain biking in this region, avoiding the intense heat of summer and potential colder, wetter conditions in winter.

While the trail passes through natural areas and rural roads, specific regulations regarding dogs are not provided. It's generally advisable to keep dogs on a leash, especially when passing through cultivated fields, near livestock, or on roads, to ensure their safety and respect local wildlife and property.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to ride this mountain bike route around the Ricobayo reservoir. It's a publicly accessible trail.

Yes, sections of this route overlap with other established paths. You will find that it covers parts of the Mtb Vía de la Plata and the Vía de la Plata hiking - 03 Salamanca to Astorga trails.

Absolutely. The route passes by the impressive Ricobayo Dam, a significant 20th-century engineering feat. It also goes near historical sites such as the Monastery of Santa María de Moreruela and the ruins of Castrotorafe, offering a blend of natural beauty and cultural insights.

Yes, the name 'Vuelta de la Embalse de Ricobayo' translates to 'Loop of the Ricobayo Reservoir', indicating that it is indeed a circular route that brings you back to your starting point in Montamarta.

Be aware that the appearance of the Ricobayo reservoir can change significantly based on water levels, which might affect some views. Also, while some areas offer natural shade from holm oaks and poplars, other sections are exposed, so plan for sun protection. The trail is considered 100% cyclable, but some unpaved segments require attention.