The best road cycling routes around Madarcos
4.6
(28)
4,197
riders
36
rides
Road cycling routes around Madarcos are characterized by mountainous terrain and significant elevation changes within the Community of Madrid. The region serves as a starting point for routes that traverse challenging passes such as Puerto de la Puebla, Puerto de La Hiruela, and Puerto del Cardoso. Natural features like the Sierra de Guadarrama and the Sierra del Rincón, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, contribute to the diverse landscapes encountered by cyclists. These areas offer a mix of forests, alpine meadows, and…
Last updated: May 17, 2026
5.0
(5)
776
riders
83.3km
04:41
1,640m
1,640m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
5.0
(1)
341
riders
61.5km
03:39
1,270m
1,270m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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5.0
(2)
378
riders
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
3.0
(1)
67
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
49
riders
67.3km
04:05
1,690m
1,690m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Tips from the Community
The Castle and Walls of Buitrago del Lozoya, one of the most important medieval sites in the Community of Madrid: The town has pre-Roman roots and was mentioned by Livy as a Celtiberian fortress (Litabrum). Muslim Fortification: Between the 8th and 11th centuries, the Muslims built the wall to protect the territory. Reconquest: Alfonso VI conquered it in 1085, and it passed into Christian hands. Current Castle: Built in the 15th century by the Mendoza family, during the reign of John II of Castile. Historical Uses: Noble residence, defensive stronghold, and setting for events such as the imprisonment of Juana la Beltraneja.
3
0
Prádena del Rincón is a charming village located in the Sierra Norte of Madrid, founded between the 11th and 12th centuries and historically linked to livestock farming. Strolling through its streets reveals traditional architecture surrounded by nature. Its monuments include the Romanesque-Mudejar church of Santo Domingo de Silos. The tranquility of the area and its rural trails invite you to a peaceful and contemplative getaway in the heart of the Sierra del Rincón. This is ideal for those seeking a genuine connection with nature and rural history, far from the hustle and bustle, with routes that allow you to explore ancient transhumance trails and enjoy the area's biodiversity.
0
0
Beautiful walled town located in the mountains north of Madrid.
0
0
Beautiful town in La Sierra de Madrid with extraordinary landscapes. We recommend this town and its surroundings to isolate yourself from the world.
0
1
The Puentes Viejas reservoir is located in the middle course of the Lozoya River, in the Sierra Norte (Madrid). It belongs to the Canal de Isabel II reservoir network and is the third reservoir in the direction of the current that the river passes through.
0
0
Beautiful town in the Sierra Pobre, highly recommended for biking, mtb and hiking, lots of water and shade around
0
0
This town of just over 100 inhabitants owes its name to the number of oaks and cistus that populate the area. Within its municipal term is the unpopulated area of El Villar (from which one of the Lozoya reservoirs takes its name). However, currently nothing remains of this place.
2
0
La Hiruela is a mountain town that suffered a dramatic population abandonment in the first decades of the 20th century. The isolation and remoteness of the main communication routes, together with the scarcity of resources in a thankless mountain range, caused a constant emigration of the population towards the big cities to leave a territory where rural life was difficult. The region of the black towns of Madrid and Guadalajara was known as the “sierra pobre”, in comparison with the “sierra rica” of upper Lozoya and the upper basin of the Manzanares and Guadarrama rivers. The rise of active tourism and recreational activities in the environment have caused a resurgence of a new lifestyle dedicated to active leisure and rural tourism products. Crafts, gastronomy, ethnography, hiking, mountain biking, landscape interpretation or nature photography, among many other things, make up an interesting range of attractions that inevitably seduce travelers who visit La Hiruela and the rest of the towns and natural landscapes of Sierra del Rincón, declared a Biosphere Reserve in 2005 by UNESCO.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Madarcos?
There are over 35 road cycling routes around Madarcos, offering a variety of options for different skill levels. You'll find 2 easy routes, 15 moderate routes, and 19 difficult routes to explore.
What is the general difficulty level of road cycling routes in Madarcos?
Road cycling routes in Madarcos are predominantly challenging, characterized by mountainous terrain and significant elevation changes. While there are a few easy options, the majority of routes are classified as moderate to difficult, featuring substantial climbs over passes like Puerto de la Puebla, Puerto de La Hiruela, and Puerto del Cardoso.
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes around Madarcos?
The terrain around Madarcos is mountainous, offering a mix of well-maintained roads that traverse challenging passes. Cyclists can expect diverse landscapes, including lush forests, alpine meadows, and scenic views, particularly within the Sierra de Guadarrama National Park and the Sierra del Rincón UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
When is the best time of year to go road cycling in Madarcos?
The best time for road cycling in Madarcos generally aligns with spring and autumn when temperatures are milder and the weather is more stable. Summer can be quite hot, especially at lower elevations, while winter brings colder temperatures and potential snow in the higher mountain passes.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along the road cycling routes in Madarcos?
Many routes offer stunning natural features. You might encounter the impressive El Villar Reservoir and Gorge, or the serene Robregordo Holly Forest. The region is also home to the Chorrera de los Litueros Waterfall and various peaks like Pico Porrejón and Peña Quemada Peak.
Are there any notable mountain passes to conquer on road bike routes near Madarcos?
Absolutely. The region is famous for its challenging mountain passes. Cyclists frequently tackle Puerto de la Puebla, Puerto de La Hiruela, and Puerto del Cardoso. These passes offer significant elevation gains and rewarding panoramic views.
Are there circular road cycling routes available in Madarcos?
Yes, many road cycling routes around Madarcos are circular, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the challenging Montejo de la Sierra, Manjirón, Puebla de la Sierra – circular route and the scenic La Serna del Monte, El Cardoso de la Sierra – circular route.
What do other cyclists say about road cycling in Madarcos?
The road cycling routes in Madarcos are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 29 reviews. Cyclists often praise the challenging climbs, the stunning mountain vistas, and the well-maintained roads that make for an excellent cycling experience.
Are there any easy road cycling routes for beginners in Madarcos?
While Madarcos is known for its challenging terrain, there are a couple of easier road cycling routes available, suitable for beginners or those looking for a less strenuous ride. These routes typically feature less elevation gain and shorter distances.
Is there parking available for cyclists in Madarcos?
Yes, Madarcos and nearby towns that serve as starting points for routes typically offer parking facilities. It's advisable to check specific starting points for designated cyclist parking areas, especially during peak seasons.
Can I reach Madarcos by public transport with my bike?
Public transport options to Madarcos and the surrounding Sierra Norte region from Madrid are available, primarily by bus. However, policies regarding carrying bikes on public transport can vary, so it's recommended to check with the specific bus operator beforehand for their regulations on bike transport.
Are there cafes or places to stop for refreshments along the road cycling routes?
While Madarcos itself is a small village, many road cycling routes pass through or near other towns and villages in the Sierra Norte region, such as Prádena del Rincón, Buitrago del Lozoya, or Montejo de la Sierra. These places often have cafes, restaurants, and small shops where cyclists can refuel and rest.
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