Ricobayo Reservoir Loop

Despite being listed for racebikes, this route is not suitable for road cycling. It is primarily designed for mountain biking (BTT) and consists entirely of unpaved surfaces like cart tracks, forest tracks, and natural paths. There are no sections on paved roads, and some parts can be rocky and slippery, which is not ideal for road bikes.

The terrain is diverse and unpaved, featuring cart tracks, forest tracks, and natural paths with abundant vegetation. You'll encounter rocky and potentially slippery surfaces, especially in the higher course of the river. Some sections also have traditional paved paths under granite walls.

For mountain bikers, the route is approximately 65.9 km long and is estimated to take around 6 hours to complete. This duration is for mountain biking, as the trail is not suitable for road cycling.

The route offers picturesque scenery along the Río Aliste, with alders, poplars, and ash trees. You'll pass traditional flour mills, dovecotes, waterwheels, and stone bridges. Highlights include the villages of Losacino, Gallegos del Río, and Perilla de Castro, as well as the Vegalatrave Church. You might also spot historical elements like the 12th-century Alba Castle and the ruins of Fort San Carlos.

The best time to visit is typically during spring or autumn when temperatures are milder and the vegetation is lush. Summers can be very dry, leading to lower river levels, while winters can bring higher water levels due to tributaries. Avoid periods of heavy rain, as unpaved sections can become very muddy and slippery.

While specific parking areas are not detailed, as a circular route passing through villages like Tierra Alba and Vegalatrave, you can generally find parking within or on the outskirts of these settlements. Look for public parking spaces or areas suitable for leaving a vehicle safely before starting your ride.

Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, given the varied terrain, including rocky and potentially slippery sections, ensure your dog is accustomed to such conditions. Always keep your dog on a leash, especially when passing through villages or near livestock, and be mindful of other trail users.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to access and ride this trail. It is a public route through the natural and rural landscape of the Aliste region.

Yes, the route briefly intersects with several local paths, including sections of the Cañada de Losacio, Calle Barrero, and Calle Era Tejar. These intersections are generally short, making up about 1% of the route each.

This route is generally considered of medium difficulty for mountain biking. The varied unpaved terrain, including forest tracks and natural paths, requires off-road cycling skills. It is 100% cyclable, meaning you shouldn't need to dismount and walk for mountain bikes.

The route passes through several traditional villages, such as Losacino, Gallegos del Río, and Perilla de Castro. While specific cafes or pubs are not guaranteed in every village, these settlements offer opportunities to find local establishments for refreshments or to replenish supplies.