The best cycling routes around Alicún De Ortega
4.8
(3)
32
riders
3
rides
Touring cycling routes around Alicún De Ortega traverse a diverse landscape characterized by the unique geological formations of the Gorafe Desert and Los Coloraos Badlands. This region, part of the Granada Geopark, features a high stone plain that gives way to dramatic gorges and ravines, offering varied terrain for cyclists. The area also includes natural aqueducts, forest routes, and the Río Guadahortuna, providing a mix of challenging and scenic paths.
Best touring cycling routes around Alicún De Ortega
- The most…
Last updated: October 23, 2026
4.5
(2)
9
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
8
riders
73.7km
06:06
1,310m
1,310m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
3
riders
44.7km
03:58
740m
740m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
5
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
3
riders
35.5km
03:00
600m
600m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
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Popular around Alicún De Ortega
Tips from the Community
too bad this refuge is disgusting
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Bikes were top, scenery indescribably beautiful, highly recommended, owners friendly and accommodating. Several days should be planned for different tours.
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Great location in the Badlands. Small double rooms with shared bathrooms – built into the cave. They also offer a few meals, drinks, and breakfast. High-quality and reasonably priced. (See map)
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Super nice owner! Helps with bike repairs. Speaks Italian, Spanish, French, and English. Accommodation and food are also available.
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The Guadahortuna River is an important waterway in the Granada region. The river rises in Montejícar and flows through several municipalities, including Alicún de Ortega, before finally flowing into the Guadiana Menor River. The name "Guadahortuna" means "River of Fortuna" and has its origins in Moorish times. The area served as a border area during the Middle Ages, where Christian troops drove out the Moors.
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The Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Anunciación in Alicún de Ortega was built in 1595. It is a parish church that was built on the site of an old Romanesque church, which itself stood on the site of an old mosque. The church was built at the initiative of Andrés de Ortega, the third lord of Alicún de Ortega, who also provided the finances for the construction of the nearby hermitage of San Roque. The church is built in the Mudéjar style, a unique combination of Islamic and Christian architecture that is characteristic of the region. The building has a rectangular plan with one nave and two bays. The church has a beautiful wooden ceiling (artesonado) in Mudéjar style, which is still preserved in some parts. The interior of the church contains a Renaissance altarpiece and four Renaissance niches in the walls. The church also houses 18th century sculptures and a 16th century painting of the Ecce Homo.
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The village is located at 709 meters above sea level and has 529 inhabitants (2014). Alicún Ortega has been inhabited since prehistoric times. Important archaeological remains from the Neolithic and Iberian periods have been found. During the Roman period, the town appears as "Acatucci" in the Route of Arles (France). In the village you can visit a beautiful church from the sixteenth century, and although there are not many monuments, Alicún de Ortega is a particularly attractive place to enjoy the beautiful surroundings: walks along the banks of the Guadahortuna, routes through the forest and beautiful landscapes give this small town a peaceful character. It is the only town on the Fardes Route that does not have and never has had cave dwellings.
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Small extended viewpoint with two benches and the coat of arms of Alicun de Ortega.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Alicún De Ortega?
There are 5 touring cycling routes available around Alicún De Ortega on komoot. These routes primarily explore the unique landscapes of the Gorafe Desert and its surroundings.
What is the general difficulty level of touring cycling routes in this area?
The touring cycling routes around Alicún De Ortega are generally considered difficult. They often involve significant elevation changes and can include unpaved or challenging segments where you might need to push your bike. Good fitness is recommended for these tours.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes?
Yes, all the touring cycling routes listed for Alicún De Ortega are circular. For example, you can explore the stunning desert landscape on the Gorafe Desert – Puntal de Don Diego Viewpoint loop from Acequia del Toril y dólmenes de Alicún, or tackle the longer Gravel Climb of Dreams – Desert of Gorafe loop from Alicún de Ortega.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see on these routes?
The routes primarily traverse the unique Gorafe Desert, characterized by large gullies, colorful sandstone formations, and badlands. You'll encounter dramatic scenery similar to the Grand Canyon, especially in areas like Los Coloraos Badlands with their vibrant red geological formations. The region is part of the Granada Geopark, offering exceptional geological sights.
What are some notable natural attractions or viewpoints along the touring cycling routes?
Many routes offer breathtaking views of the Gorafe Desert. The Gorafe Desert – Puntal de Don Diego Viewpoint loop specifically takes you to the Puntal de Don Diego Viewpoint. You'll also encounter the expansive Gorafe Desert itself, known for its canyons and unique formations.
What is the longest touring cycling route in Alicún De Ortega?
The longest touring cycling route is the Gravel Climb of Dreams – Desert of Gorafe loop from Alicún de Ortega, covering approximately 73.7 kilometers with over 1300 meters of elevation gain. This route offers an extensive exploration of the desert landscape.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Alicún De Ortega?
Andalusia, including the Alicún De Ortega region, offers ideal weather conditions for cycle touring year-round. However, spring and autumn provide particularly pleasant temperatures for exploring the desert landscapes, avoiding the peak summer heat.
Are there any unique natural features like waterfalls or thermal springs to visit?
While the routes focus on the desert, the area is known for fascinating natural features. Near Alicún, you can find natural aqueducts formed by lime from warm emerging water, culminating in a warm waterfall. These unique formations offer a distinctive natural spectacle.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Alicún De Ortega?
The komoot community rates the touring cycling experience in Alicún De Ortega highly, with an average score of 4.75 stars. Cyclists often praise the unique and dramatic desert landscapes, the challenging climbs, and the sense of adventure offered by these routes.
Are there any routes that start from Dehesas de Guadix?
Yes, one route, the Desert of Gorafe – Dehesas de Guadix loop from Dehesas de Guadix, begins and ends in Dehesas de Guadix. This route covers approximately 44.7 kilometers and explores a different section of the Gorafe Desert.
What is the maximum elevation gain on a touring cycling route here?
The route with the most elevation gain is the Gravel Climb of Dreams – Desert of Gorafe loop from Alicún de Ortega, which features over 1300 meters of ascent, making it a significant challenge for touring cyclists.
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