The best road cycling routes around Oviedo

Oviedo offers a diverse range of road cycling experiences. You can find challenging mountain ascents in areas like the Picos de Europa, including routes famous from the Vuelta a España such as Alto del Angliru and Lagos de Covadonga. There are also gentler greenways along river valleys, like the Senda del Oso, and scenic routes through the Asturian countryside. The region's mountainous landscape features significant elevation gains and winding roads, alongside lush forests and river trails.

Yes, for those seeking less challenging rides, the region offers several excellent options. The Senda del Oso (Bear's Path) is a popular 50-59 km greenway, ideal for families and casual riders due to its easy gradients (no more than 4%) and paved, motor-traffic-free surface. Another option is the Río Nora River Trail, an easy 10.5-mile route with scenic riverside views. The Camin de Careses Loop is also an easy route, covering about 21 km.

Experienced road cyclists will find plenty of demanding routes. The Picos de Europa National Park offers legendary climbs like the Alto del Angliru and Lagos de Covadonga, known for their significant elevation gains. Other challenging routes include the climb to Puerto de la Cruz de Linares. For specific routes, consider the Alto de La Colladiella y Alto de La Colladona – circular desde Sotrondio, a difficult 67.8 km trail with over 1390m of elevation gain, or the Trubia, Dosango, and Alto del Escamplero Loop from Lugones, which covers nearly 70 km with over 1240m of ascent.

The Senda del Oso greenway offers picturesque views of rugged mountains and crystal-clear rivers as it winds through lush vegetation, dense forests, tunnels, and over wooden bridges. A unique highlight along this route is the Cercado de los Osos (Bear Enclosure) near Proaza, where you can observe Cantabrian brown bears in a semi-wild habitat.

Yes, many routes offer access to significant landmarks and natural features. For instance, the area around Monte Naranco features the Sacred Heart of Jesus Monument and the Alto del Naranco. You can also find natural monuments like the Fuensanta Natural Mineral Spring and the Guanga Waterfalls. The Picos de Europa National Park itself is a dramatic landscape of sharp mountain peaks and vibrant green scenery.

The northern regions of Spain, including the Picos de Europa, generally offer pleasant weather conditions for cycling throughout the year, even during summer. This makes Oviedo an accessible destination for road cycling in most seasons.

There are over 300 road cycling routes available around Oviedo, catering to various skill levels. This includes approximately 30 easy routes, over 150 moderate routes, and more than 120 difficult routes, ensuring options for every type of cyclist.

The road cycling routes in Oviedo are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 230 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, from challenging mountain climbs to serene river valleys, and the well-maintained greenways.

Yes, many routes around Oviedo are designed as loops. Examples include the Alto de La Colladiella y Alto de La Colladona – circular desde Sotrondio, the Langreo by Garganta and Nava by Faya los Llobos – circular from Pola de Siero, and the La Felguera, Alto de la Mozqueta, and Mieres Loop. The Oviedo - Fuso de la Reina Greenway Loop also connects the city with Fuso de la Reina.

Oviedo itself is well-connected, less than 45 minutes from the airport and with high-speed train connections, making it an easily accessible starting point. For specific routes like the Senda del Oso, parking is generally available at various access points. Many greenways and trails are designed with accessibility in mind, often having designated parking areas near trailheads. For more remote mountain climbs, access might require driving to a starting point.

Absolutely. Oviedo serves as a starting point or link for several Camino de Santiago cycling routes, including sections of the Camino Primitivo and Camino del Norte. These routes offer a mix of asphalt and dirt roads, passing through charming towns and coastal areas, providing an opportunity to experience both cultural heritage and natural beauty alongside your ride.

The duration of routes varies significantly based on distance and difficulty. For example, the Camin de Careses Loop, an easy 21 km route, takes about 1 hour 5 minutes. More challenging routes like the Alto del Escamplero, San Juan de la Arena y Avilés – circular desde Oviedo, covering nearly 100 km, can take around 4 hours 48 minutes.