The best cycling routes around Manzanal De Arriba
4.9
(5)
61
riders
23
rides
Touring cycling routes around Manzanal De Arriba traverse a diverse landscape within the Sierra de la Culebra, characterized by extensive forests of oak, chestnut, and pine. The region features varied terrain with paths and roads winding through hills and valleys, offering scenic routes. The Valparaíso Reservoir, formed by the Tera River, provides additional routes around its perimeter. Clear streams and rivers, such as the Onor, contribute to a lush natural environment.
Best touring cycling routes around Manzanal De Arriba
- The…
Last updated: July 11, 2026
51.7km
03:57
550m
550m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
58.9km
04:31
680m
680m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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49.7km
04:04
920m
920m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
5.0
(1)
9
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
9
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Rio de Onor is not just a beautiful village; it's a "living museum" of a way of life that has almost disappeared in Europe. It's worth visiting because it is possibly the village with the most fascinating social history in Portugal. Here are the 4 main reasons to go there: 1. It's a Community Village ("Communitarianism") This is Rio de Onor's great trademark. For centuries, the village lived under a system of total sharing among neighbors, something very rare: Sharing of Goods: The bread oven, the watermill, and even the village bull belonged to everyone. The "Rod of Justice": Decisions and fines for infractions in the village were marked on a wooden rod, managed by the "judge" elected by the people. You can see this history explained at the Casa do Touro (House of the Bull), a small, unmissable museum in the village. 2. One Village, Two Countries Rio de Onor is a village bisected by the international border. On this side is Rio de Onor (Portugal); on the other side is Rihonor de Castilla (Spain). For the inhabitants, the border never really existed: they share land, livestock, and even speak their own dialect (Rionorês), an ancient mixture of Portuguese and Castilian. It's very curious to cross from one country to the other on foot in the middle of the main street. 3. The Schist Landscape and Nature Located in the Montesinho Natural Park, the village is visually stunning. The houses are made of dark schist with wooden balconies, typical of Trás-os-Montes, and are very well preserved. The Onor River, which crosses the village, has clear waters and creates a very pleasant natural river beach in the summer, perfect for picnics. 4. The "Roman" Bridge The old stone bridge (which is actually from the 19th century, despite its popular name) is the village's postcard image. The reflection of the arches in the water with the schist houses in the background creates one of the most photogenic landscapes in Northern Portugal. Visiting Rio de Onor is like stepping back in time and understanding how communities survived in isolation in the mountains, supporting each other. It's a lesson in life and history in an incredible natural setting.
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Rio de Onor is a sleepy little village right on the Portugal/Spain border. The drive through it is a challenging one and absolutely not recommended for larger campervans.
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Rio de Onor is one of the most emblematic villages in Bragança and the Montesinho Natural Park, and was elected the 7th Wonder of Portugal in 2017 – a village in a protected area. Crossing the border with Spain, on one side is Rio de Onor, and on the other, Rihonor de Castilla, which is why it is said to be “one village, two countries”!
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very nice place. Was recently voted one of the 10 most beautiful places in Spain. A bit touristy, but not overcrowded
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Personally, I don't like this area a lot. I have seen hares, rabbits, deer, wolves and it's always quiet. I always go alone and explore paths
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Beautiful views of the Sanabria region and the Culebra mountain range.
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Located in the homonymous region, this picturesque town is the ideal location to stay during a visit to the surrounding towns and places. Declared an asset of cultural interest for its historical architectural complex, it has been a military bastion for decades, since the topography favors its defense, still preserving part of its wall. The Castle of the Counts of Benavente, the Romanesque church of Sta. María del Azogue and the hermitage of S. Cayetano, are places of tourist interest.
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Built in the s. XV by the Pimentel family after taking control of the region, the fortress would witness the wars with Portugal in the s. XVIII and the War of Independence, when Portuguese soldiers would face the Serrar Division of the French army.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Manzanal De Arriba?
There are around 14 touring cycling routes in Manzanal De Arriba, offering diverse experiences through the Sierra de la Culebra. While many routes present a significant challenge, there are also options for moderate difficulty.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Manzanal De Arriba?
The region offers a beautiful cycling experience throughout the year. Spring and autumn are particularly pleasant, with mild temperatures and the forests displaying vibrant colors. The changing colors of the oak, chestnut, and pine forests provide a spectacular backdrop during these seasons.
What are the typical difficulty levels for touring cycling routes in this area?
Touring cycling in Manzanal De Arriba is generally challenging. Out of the 14 available routes, 11 are classified as difficult, and 3 are moderate. There are currently no easy routes listed, indicating that most trails involve significant elevation changes and varied terrain.
What natural features can I expect to see while cycling in Manzanal De Arriba?
You'll cycle through the extensive forests of oak, chestnut, and pine that characterize the Sierra de la Culebra. Many routes offer views of the Valparaíso Reservoir, formed by the Tera River, and you'll encounter crystal-clear streams and rivers like the Onor, which creates pleasant natural river beaches. You might also spot the impressive Peña Mira, the highest point in the Sierra de la Culebra.
Are there any historical or cultural sites to visit along the touring cycling routes?
Yes, the region is rich in history and culture. You can explore traditional villages with stone houses, such as Codesal, or visit the Honey Museum in Sagallos. Evidence of ancient human presence, including rock paintings, can be found, and a Roman road once connected Astorga and Braga through the area. The Hermitage of the Incarnation and the Historic Stone Church are also notable religious buildings.
What picturesque villages can I cycle through in the region?
Manzanal de Arriba encompasses several charming villages perfect for cycling through, including Codesal, Folgoso de la Carballeda, Linarejos, Pedroso de la Carballeda, Sagallos, Sandín, and Santa Cruz de los Cuérragos. Rio de Onor Village is particularly picturesque, known for its magical views from its bridge.
Are there circular touring cycling routes available?
Yes, several routes are designed as loops. For example, the Camino Sanabrés and Cernadilla Reservoir Loop and the Camino Sanabrés and Muelas de los Caballeros Loop offer circular journeys. Another option is Crossing Portugal from Linarejos — Circular in the Comarca de Sanabria.
Are there any viewpoints or scenic spots along the routes?
Absolutely. The routes often wind through hills and valleys, providing scenic vistas of the Sierra de la Culebra. The Valparaíso Reservoir offers beautiful waterside views, and you can find specific viewpoints like the View of the Rolling Hills in Montesinho Natural Park, which is accessible from some routes.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy the most about touring cycling in Manzanal De Arriba?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, the tranquility of the forests, and the opportunity to explore traditional rural life in the picturesque villages.
Are there any specific natural monuments to look out for?
Yes, the region features several natural monuments. You can visit the Weir and Boardwalk of the Rio Onor, explore the Carbón Stream and Antigua Losera de Figueruela, or marvel at the Centennial Pyrenean Oak (Carvalho-Negral).
Are there any touring cycling routes that pass by castles or historic towns?
While Manzanal de Arriba itself is known for its traditional villages, you can find routes that lead to nearby historic towns. For instance, the Puebla de Sanabria Castle – Old Town of Puebla de Sanabria loop from Asturianos offers a chance to explore the historic castle and old town of Puebla de Sanabria.
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