Mercadillo, Gueñes and Sodupe

This challenging 78-kilometer road cycling route is designed for experienced cyclists. It typically takes around 4 hours and 9 minutes to complete, depending on your pace and stops.

No, this route is categorized as 'difficult' and requires a 'very good fitness' level due to its significant elevation gain of 1,360 meters over 78 kilometers. It features numerous climbs, including the Larreineta Climb, making it unsuitable for beginners.

The route primarily features well-paved surfaces, making it smooth for cycling. However, the terrain is characterized by rolling hills and substantial elevation changes, including specific ascents like the Larreineta Climb and Carretera a Bezi. You'll encounter a mix of cycleways, streets, and state roads.

The route offers diverse scenery, from views of the Bilbao estuary and Bilbao itself, to picturesque countryside. You'll pass traditional Basque farmhouses, forests, and charming villages like Sodupe, Güeñes, and Mercadillo. A notable stop is the Las Encartaciones Museum, offering cultural insights.

While the route can be enjoyed in various seasons, spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant cycling conditions with milder temperatures and less extreme weather. Summer can be warm, and winter might bring cooler, wetter conditions, especially in the higher elevations.

This route primarily follows public roads and cycleways. While there aren't specific restrictions against dogs on these public thoroughfares, it's generally not recommended to bring dogs on a challenging 78 km racebike route due to the speed, traffic, and physical demands on the animal.

No, you do not need any special permits or to pay entrance fees to cycle this route. It primarily uses public roads and cycleways, including sections that pass through the Montes de Hierro region, which does not require specific cycling permits or entry fees.

As the route is a circular one starting from Bilbao, you can typically find parking in or around Bilbao city center or in the larger towns along the route like Sodupe, Güeñes, or Mercadillo. Look for public parking areas or designated street parking. Specific parking details for the exact trailhead are not provided, but starting from Bilbao offers various options.

The route starts from Bilbao, which is well-connected by public transport. You can reach Bilbao via train, bus, or even by flying into Bilbao Airport. From within Bilbao, local buses or the metro can take you to various points close to the route's starting area, allowing you to begin your ride.

Yes, sections of this route coincide with other trails. Notably, it covers parts of the Camino Olvidado (Bilbao-Villasante), the Vía Verde del Kadagua, and the Northern Route (Basque Country) of Saint James, offering a blend of local and long-distance cycling experiences.

Yes, as the route passes through several charming villages like Sodupe, Güeñes, and Mercadillo, you will find various cafes, pubs, and restaurants where you can refuel. Accommodation options are also available in these towns and, of course, extensively in Bilbao.