The best cycling routes around Monegros

Monegros is characterized by its unique semi-desert steppe landscape, featuring expansive arid terrain, dry riverbeds, and distinctive geological formations known as “tozales” and “torrollones.” You'll also find contrasting pine and holm oak forests in the Alcubierre Mountain Range and salty lagoons like Sariñena Lagoon, offering a diverse cycling experience.

There are over 20 touring cycling routes available in Monegros, catering to various skill levels. You can find options ranging from easy, leisurely rides to more challenging, difficult routes.

Yes, Monegros offers easy routes. A great option is the Laguna de Sariñena — circular from Sariñena, which is 15.8 miles (25.4 km) long and leads through the scenic Sariñena Lagoon area. This route is generally completed in about 1 hour 36 minutes.

Monegros is rich in unique natural features. You can encounter the striking multi-colored rock formations like Tozal de la Cobeta and the broader Tozales de Monegros. The region also features the El Pilón (Sierra de Sena Summit), offering excellent views, and the Sariñena Lagoon, a significant spot for waterfowl observation.

Many routes in Monegros are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. For example, the challenging Vuelta al Monegros — circular desde Sariñena explores the expansive steppe, while the moderate Monegros, the Spanish Western — circular gravel from the Monastery of Sigena connects historical sites with the unique terrain.

Monegros is a semi-desert region, so spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant cycling conditions with milder temperatures. Summers can be very hot, and while winters are mild, they can be windy. Checking local weather forecasts before your trip is always recommended.

Yes, Monegros has a rich history. The Orwell Route Trail is a moderate 26.5-mile (42.6 km) route that touches upon historical remnants from the Civil War. You can also explore the area around the Sijena Monastery, a Romanesque masterpiece, on routes like Sijena Monastery – Sigena Monastery / Sixena loop from Sena.

Route distances vary significantly, from shorter rides like the 15.8-mile (25.4 km) Laguna de Sariñena — circular from Sariñena to much longer, more challenging tours such as the 74-mile (119.1 km) Ascent of Sierra de Presiñena – Tozales de Monegros loop from Sariñena, which features over 1000 meters of elevation gain.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.75 stars. Reviewers often praise the unique semi-desert landscapes, the sense of solitude, and the extensive network of tracks and service roads that allow for immersive cycling experiences through its 'other-worldly' environment.

Yes, the Alcubierre Mountain Range forms the 'backbone' of Los Monegros and offers contrasting landscapes with pine and holm oak forests. The Camino Real de Zaragoza and Sierra de Alcubierre Loop is a difficult 28.3-mile (45.5 km) route that takes you through this scenic area, providing excellent views.

Many routes start from towns and villages within Monegros, such as Sariñena or Castejón de Monegros, where you can typically find public parking facilities. For example, routes like From Castejón de Monegros to Miramón — circular route begin in these accessible locations.

Yes, you can cycle past the Cartuja de Monegros. The Cartuja de Monegros and Sariñena Lagoon Loop is a moderate 22.4-mile (36.1 km) route that combines views of this historical site with the natural beauty of the Sariñena Lagoon.