Pico Montero and Los Alcornocales Park Loop

This route is classified as difficult and requires very good fitness. It involves a substantial effort, with over 1,850 meters (6,100 feet) of elevation gain over approximately 110 km. Be prepared for a challenging ride.

While primarily a road cycling route, the terrain includes a mix of paved and potentially unpaved sections. Most of the route, about 98.9 km, is asphalt, but some segments, around 10.9 km, might be rougher or unpaved, possibly requiring you to dismount and push your bike.

The estimated duration for this challenging route is approximately 5 hours and 41 minutes of active cycling time. However, given its difficulty and length, it can easily take over 5 hours, not including stops.

The route offers stunning scenery within Los Alcornocales Natural Park. Key highlights include the Puerto de las Palomas Viewpoint, the challenging ascent to Pico del Montero, and the El Picacho Recreation Area. You'll also pass through the historic town of Alcalá de los Gazules, which serves as the starting point.

Alcalá de los Gazules is the starting point for this circular route. As a historic town, you should look for public parking areas within or on the outskirts of the town. Specific parking details are not provided, but general street parking or designated town parking lots would be your best options.

No, this route is not suitable for beginners or families. It is classified as 'difficult' and requires 'very good fitness' due to its length (110 km) and significant elevation gain (over 1,850 meters). There are also potentially unpaved sections that add to the challenge.

The Los Alcornocales Natural Park experiences a Mediterranean climate. Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) are generally the best times to cycle, offering milder temperatures and pleasant conditions. Summers can be very hot, and winters can be wet and cool, making cycling more challenging.

Los Alcornocales Natural Park generally does not require an entrance fee for public access. However, it's important to note that accessing the specific area of Pico del Montero might require special permission, as it is within a national park. Always check local regulations before your trip, especially for sensitive areas.

This route is designed for race biking, and due to its length, difficulty, and the nature of road cycling, it is generally not considered suitable for dogs. While Los Alcornocales Natural Park may have dog-friendly hiking trails, this specific cycling route is not recommended for pets.

Yes, the route intersects with several official trails within the park. Notably, it covers significant sections of Picacho Peguera (24% of the route), [CIMA CD10] Pico Montero (EVA-11) (13%), and [CIMA CD03] Gáliz * Alcalá de los Gazules (12%). Smaller portions also overlap with Sendero Subida Al Aljibe, Sendero Subida Al Picacho, Sendero Travesía del Aljibe, and Sendero Garganta de Puerto Oscuro.

Los Alcornocales Natural Park is a Special Bird Protection Zone (ZEPA) and a Place of Community Interest (LIC), making it rich in biodiversity. You might spot various bird species, and the park is known for its ancient cork oak forests. Keep an eye out for local fauna, but remember to observe from a distance and respect their natural habitat.