Maceda – Loop through Bidueiral de Mont

This is considered a hard mountain bike ride, requiring very good fitness and advanced riding skills. The technical difficulty is rated between STS S3 and S6, meaning you'll encounter challenging obstacles and demanding sections where precise bike handling is crucial. Be prepared for the possibility of dismounting and pushing your bike through some segments.

The terrain is quite varied and contributes to its high difficulty. You'll find a mix of well-maintained forest tracks, mountain paths, and cross-country sections. Expect technical singletrack, potentially rocky paths, and steep ascents and descents. The Ourense region is known for its rugged landscape, so be ready for a challenging ride.

The route is approximately 51.8 km long with significant elevation gain. On average, it takes about 5 hours to complete, but this can vary greatly depending on your fitness level, technical skills, and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

The trail offers a combination of natural beauty and historical landmarks. You'll ride through the ecologically significant Bidueiral de Montederramo birch forest. Key scenic highlights include panoramic views from the Viewpoint of Alto de Rodicio, and you'll pass by the historic Castillo de Maceda, which overlooks the town.

You can typically find parking in the town of Maceda, which serves as a convenient starting point for this circular route. Look for available spots near the Castillo de Maceda or in the town center.

There are no specific permits or entrance fees required to ride this trail. However, the route traverses the Bidueiral de Montederramo, which is part of the Natura 2000 Network and Ribeira Sacra Natural Park. Please respect local regulations regarding protected natural areas, such as staying on marked paths and not disturbing wildlife.

Generally, dogs are allowed on the trail. However, as parts of the route pass through protected natural areas like the Natura 2000 Network, it's crucial to keep your dog on a leash to protect local wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all trail users. Always practice Leave No Trace principles.

The best time to ride this trail is typically during spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October). During these seasons, the weather is usually milder, and the natural scenery, especially the birch forest, is particularly beautiful. Summer can be very hot, and winter might bring challenging conditions like rain, mud, or even snow at higher elevations.

Yes, the route occasionally intersects with or runs alongside other local paths. You might find yourself on sections of trails such as Sendeiro das Penas, Camiño dos Loureiros, Camiño de Vigueira de Arriba, and Camiño da Míllara at various points along the way.

The town of Maceda, where the route typically starts and ends, offers various amenities including cafes, restaurants, and possibly some accommodation options. It's a good place to refuel before or after your ride.

You'll be treated to spectacular and diverse scenery. The route takes you through the ancient Bidueiral de Montederramo birch forest, which is particularly stunning. Expect panoramic views of the Sil Canyon, the valley below, the town of Maceda, and the surrounding Ourense province. The forest itself is rich with birch, oak, holly, and Scots pine trees.