4.4
(36)
364
riders
8
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes in Serra Do Xistral traverse a diverse mountainous landscape in northern Galicia, Spain. The region features steep slopes, deeply carved valleys, and extensive plateaus, with the highest point reaching 1,062 meters. Distinctive blanket bogs, unique to Galicia, are present, alongside ancient oak forests and holly groves. Several significant rivers originate here, flowing towards both the Cantabrian Sea and the Atlantic.
Last updated: May 18, 2026
5.0
(1)
66
riders
38.1km
03:24
520m
520m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
1
riders
25.2km
02:11
700m
700m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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1
riders
32.1km
02:21
730m
730m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
14
riders
39.3km
02:27
410m
410m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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Popular around Serra Do Xistral
The motorhome parking space is great there, and next to it is a good indoor pool at 26 degrees. There's a small sauna and gym for 5.60 euros. Everything is clean and very friendly.
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A good way to find inspiration at the start of a cycle touring trip is to cycle unhurriedly following the universal yellow arrows of the Camino de Santiago. In Ribadeo begins the Natural Route of the Cantabrian Route and it is also the entrance to Galicia of the Camino del Norte or Camino de la Costa from Asturias, in both ways it is known the Camino de Santiago that runs along the Cantabrian coast from Irún to Santiago de Compostela. The Jacobean route leaves the Cantabrian coast and faces the first stage through the interior of Galicia, the landscape, the language and the cultural signs change but the faithful yellow arrows remain along with the inseparable Compostelan scallop shell along the Camiño Norte. The main purpose of including this variant in the trip is to connect with the Natural Route of San Rosendo and to discover the landscapes and villages that this ancient pilgrimage route travels between Mondoñedo and Foz. The connection point between the Camino de Santiago and the Natural Route is in Vilanova de Lourenzá, an ancient town of the Bridge from other times, when pilgrims sought asylum and protection in the hospitium of the Benedictine monastery of San Salvador. The meeting of the two routes is precisely at the medieval bridge over the Baos river, at the entrance to the town, and one could continue directly along the Natural Route of San Rosendo towards the coast, but the visit to the historic city of Mondoñedo is fundamental, former seat of courts, lordships and bishoprics, it has an old town declared a Historic-Artistic Site with arcades, cobbled streets and facades decorated with coats of arms and crests. The two routes coexist in the villages of the route until the Plaza de la Catedral de Mondoñedo, then you have to return along the same route and in Lourenzá undertake the descent towards the coast through the parishes of Casolga and Celeiro, in the mountains of the Masma river valley, the river collector that flows into the estuary of Foz. The landmarks of the Natural Route of San Rosendo pass through the basilica of San Martiño de Mondoñedo, the ancient site of Mindumneto, refuge of the bishop of Braga, Sabarico, in the mid-9th century and seat of the diocese until the year 1112, it is the oldest preserved cathedral in Spain and the first raised in southern Europe, built in the 6th century. The signs of the Route continue through the forests that lead to the panoramic spot of the hermitage of Obispo Santo and finally descend to the coastal platform, connecting with the Natural Route of the Cantabrian Route on the outskirts of Foz to finish the cycling stage by touring the coast of the Gulf of Masma to Cape Burela.
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The two routes coexist in the villages on the way to the Mondoñedo Cathedral Square, then you have to return along the same route and in Lourenzá begin the descent towards the coast through the parishes of Casolga and Celeiro, in the mountains of the river valley. Masma, the river collector that flows into the Foz estuary. The milestones of the San Rosendo Natural Trail pass by the basilica of San Martiño de Mondoñedo, the ancient place of Mindumneto, refuge of the bishop of Braga, Sabarico, in the mid-9th century and seat of the diocese until the year 1112, it is the cathedral oldest preserved in Spain and the first built in southern Europe, built in the 6th century. The signs of the Camino continue through the forests that lead to the panoramic spot of the Obispo Santo hermitage and finally go down to the coastal platform, connecting with the Natural Path of the Cantabrian Route on the outskirts of Foz to finish the cycling stage along the coast. from the Gulf of Masma to Cape Burela.
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Natural recreational space with multiple trails for activities along the Tronceda River. Don't forget to see the waterfall and the water channel.
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A small bridge over the river ouro. This trade route dates back to iron age settlements along the coast. Today the area has been transformed into a nature reserve and recreational activity area.
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The Paseo Marítimo de Foz is a public space for recreation and promenade with incredible views of the Galician north Atlantic coast.
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There are several dedicated no traffic touring cycling routes in Serra Do Xistral. Our guide features 8 routes, ranging from moderate to difficult, ensuring a quiet and scenic experience away from heavy vehicle traffic.
Serra Do Xistral offers a diverse landscape. You'll encounter mountainous terrain with steep slopes and deeply carved valleys, as well as extensive plateaus. While roads are generally in fair condition, some segments may be unpaved, adding to the touring adventure. Expect varied elevation changes, with many routes featuring significant climbs.
While Serra Do Xistral is known for its challenging terrain, there is one moderate route available for touring cyclists. The A Rapadoira Beach – Foz Promenade loop from As Teixoeiras offers a more accessible option with 408 meters of elevation gain over 39.2 kilometers, providing a scenic ride without the most strenuous climbs.
Serra Do Xistral is rich in natural beauty. You can encounter unique blanket bogs, ancient oak forests, and several rivers. Highlights include the Tronceda River Waterfalls and the Río Ouro and Escouridal Waterfall. For panoramic views, routes may pass near summits like Monseivane Summit or Pico O Cadramón.
Yes, several routes offer opportunities to see waterfalls. For example, the Mondoñedo – return via Tronceda river Waterfalls route specifically highlights this natural attraction. The region's rivers, such as the Landro, Ouro, and Masma, often create picturesque cascades.
The best time to visit for touring cycling is generally during the warmer, drier months. However, be prepared for the region's characteristic frequent fog, strong winds, and significant rainfall, which can occur at any time. Winter snows are not uncommon in higher elevations despite proximity to the sea.
Yes, Serra Do Xistral is a haven for wildlife. The area is home to important populations of wolves, various butterfly species, and a relict population of the Cantabrian lizard. Wild horses are also a frequent sight, especially in the more remote, open terrain, offering unique encounters during your ride.
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Serra Do Xistral are designed as loops. Examples include the Lakeside Swing – Lago de As Pontes loop from A Ribeira Nova and the Lakeside Swing – Lago de As Pontes loop from As Pontes de García Rodríguez, which allow you to start and finish at the same point.
The komoot community highly rates touring cycling in Serra Do Xistral, with an average score of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 33 reviews. Cyclists often praise the region's low traffic roads, diverse and wild landscapes, and the sense of exploration offered by its challenging climbs and scenic views.
The longest no traffic touring cycling route featured in this guide is the Lakeside Swing – Lago de As Pontes loop from As Pontes de García Rodríguez, covering approximately 49 kilometers (30 miles) with over 730 meters of elevation gain. This difficult route offers an extensive exploration of the region's landscapes.
Yes, the Valadouro – tour through Alfoz and Rio Ouro is a challenging route that takes you through the Alfoz region and along the Rio Ouro, offering beautiful riverine scenery and significant elevation changes over its 32-kilometer distance.


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