The best cycling routes around Mijares

The touring cycling routes in Mijares are generally challenging. All 17 routes listed are classified as difficult, featuring significant elevation changes and mountainous terrain. For example, the Puerto de Pedro Bernardo – Serranillos Pass loop from Pedro Bernardo involves over 1500 meters of ascent.

Yes, several routes are circular, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Notable options include the Puerto de Pedro Bernardo – Serranillos Pass loop from Pedro Bernardo, a 61.3 km trail, and the Mijares – Puerto de Mijares loop from Mijares, which covers 28.4 km through the river valley and surrounding mountains.

Mijares offers a diverse and often demanding terrain for touring cyclists. You'll encounter mountainous landscapes with significant climbs, wild river valleys carved by the Mijares River, and extensive forests, including cork oak woodlands within the Sierra de Espadán Natural Park. While many routes feature paved roads, some areas, like the 'Mijares River Path,' might include compact dirt tracks suitable for touring bikes.

The region is rich in natural beauty and points of interest. You can expect to see the Mijares River with its turquoise natural pools, such as those near Montanejos or Cirat (Salto de la Novia waterfall). Mountain passes like Puerto de Mijares and Serranillos Pass offer expansive views. The Sierra de Espadán Natural Park provides leafy forests and diverse ecosystems. Historic features like the Aquelcabos Medieval Bridge can also be found on routes such as the Aquelcabos Medieval Bridge – Puerto de Pedro Bernardo loop from Pedro Bernardo.

While the touring cycling routes listed in this guide are all difficult, the broader Mijares region does offer easier options. The 'Mijares River Path' is a notable family-friendly route, often starting from Castellón de la Plana, featuring flat, compact dirt tracks. The Alto Mijares Mountain Bike Centre also offers an 8 km circular route, 'An outing along the River Mijares,' suitable for all skill levels, particularly beautiful in autumn and spring.

The mountainous terrain and natural features of Mijares make spring and autumn particularly appealing for touring cycling. During these seasons, the weather is generally milder, and the landscapes are vibrant, whether with spring blooms or autumn colors. The 'An outing along the River Mijares' route, for instance, is specifically highlighted as beautiful in autumn and spring.

Yes, some routes offer glimpses into the region's history and culture. The 'An outing along the River Mijares' route near Montanejos allows cyclists to explore heritage sites like Arab bath ruins, an old flour mill, and the San José Bridge. Additionally, the Aquelcabos Medieval Bridge – Puerto de Pedro Bernardo loop from Pedro Bernardo passes by historical features. The region also has historic centers in municipalities like Montanejos and Cirat, with highlights such as the Tower of Los Condes de Cirat Palace.

Mijares is a hub for various outdoor activities. Beyond cycling, the region is excellent for hiking and climbing, thanks to its numerous springs, ravines, and caves. The Mijares River and Sitjar Reservoir offer opportunities for water sports like kayaking, paddle surfing, and rafting. You can also explore natural pools for swimming or visit cultural attractions like the Unfinished Street Art Museum (MIAU) in Fanzara.

Yes, the Vía Verde de Ojos Negros is approximately 7 km from the Refugio Alto Mijares. This 152 km cycle path follows a decommissioned railway line, offering a relatively flat route through tunnels, over bridges, and viaducts. While not always paved, it provides a unique long-distance cycling experience.

The touring cycling routes in Mijares often lead to significant elevations and offer panoramic views. Routes like the Mirador del Rollo – Pedro Bernardo loop from Pedro Bernardo suggest scenic viewpoints. You'll also traverse mountain passes such as Puerto de Mijares and Serranillos Pass, which are high points offering expansive vistas of the surrounding mountainous landscape.

Touring cyclists often praise the challenging yet rewarding nature of the routes, the stunning mountainous scenery, and the wild river valleys. The region's diverse ecosystems and natural features, such as the cork oak forests of Sierra de Espadán, are frequently highlighted. The sense of adventure and the opportunity to explore less-traveled paths are also highly valued by the komoot community.