The best cycling routes around National Park Ubiñas-La Mesa

The touring cycling routes in National Park Ubiñas-La Mesa are primarily designed for advanced cyclists. The region, part of the Cantabrian Mountains, features significant elevation changes, challenging climbs, and high mountain passes. All 12 routes listed in this guide are rated as difficult.

Yes, several touring cycling routes in the area are circular. For example, you can explore the Samartín, Puerto San Lorenzo, Alto de La Farrapona, Puerto de Ventana, Cueva Huerta — circular through the Parque Natural de Somiedo, which takes you through multiple mountain passes and descends into the Parque Natural de Somiedo. Another option is the Puerto de Ventana and Puerto de San Lorenzo Loop, also featuring challenging mountain passes.

Due to the challenging terrain and significant distances, touring cycling routes in National Park Ubiñas-La Mesa typically range from 2 to over 6 hours to complete. For instance, the Senda del Oso and Cruz de Linares Loop is estimated to take around 4 hours 45 minutes, while the longer Samartín, Puerto San Lorenzo, Alto de La Farrapona, Puerto de Ventana, Cueva Huerta — circular through the Parque Natural de Somiedo can take over 6 hours.

The routes offer numerous scenic viewpoints, particularly from the high mountain passes. You'll encounter landmarks like La Cubilla Pass, Ventana Pass, and San Lorenzo Pass. These passes provide expansive views of the mountainous landscape and deep valleys characteristic of the Cantabrian Mountains.

Given that all touring cycling routes in National Park Ubiñas-La Mesa are rated as difficult and involve significant elevation gains, they are generally not recommended for casual family cycling trips, especially with young children. The terrain is better suited for experienced adult cyclists.

The best season for touring cycling in National Park Ubiñas-La Mesa is typically from late spring to early autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally more stable, and the high mountain passes are clear of snow. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out, as conditions can change rapidly in mountainous regions.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 20 reviews. Reviewers often praise the challenging climbs, the stunning mountain scenery, and the sense of accomplishment from conquering the high passes. The routes are appreciated for their demanding nature and the rewarding views they offer.

Yes, some routes offer proximity to other natural attractions. For example, the Samartín, Puerto San Lorenzo, Alto de La Farrapona, Puerto de Ventana, Cueva Huerta — circular through the Parque Natural de Somiedo route descends through the Parque Natural de Somiedo, allowing you to experience its unique ecosystems and limestone formations.

While specific parking information for each route varies, many trailheads and villages within or near National Park Ubiñas-La Mesa offer designated parking areas. It's advisable to check the route details on komoot for specific parking recommendations or to plan your starting point in a village with public parking facilities.

For a shorter but still demanding experience, consider the La Cubilla Pass loop from Rospaso. This route covers approximately 25.8 km (16 miles) with significant elevation gain, offering a concentrated challenge in about 2 hours 10 minutes.

You will primarily encounter mountainous terrain with paved roads that wind through high passes, deep valleys, and dense forests. The routes are characterized by significant elevation changes, requiring good climbing ability. Expect varied surfaces typical of mountain roads in the Cantabrian range.