Cuencas Mineras and Puerto de Majalinos Loop

This route is considered difficult and requires a very good level of fitness. The climb to Puerto de Majalinos features irregular gradients, with sections reaching up to 10%, especially towards the final kilometers from Ejulve. It's recognized as a 1st category climb in the cycling community.

The route is primarily on paved roads, which are generally narrow and tranquil. However, some segments, particularly on the Aliaga side, may have rough asphalt. The climb itself is irregular, with varying inclines and some false flats interspersed with steeper ramps.

The best time to cycle this route is typically during spring and autumn when temperatures are milder. Summer can be very hot, and due to past fires, there is limited shade, making it crucial to carry plenty of water. Winters can be cold and potentially snowy at higher elevations.

While the route is on public roads, it's generally not suitable for cycling with dogs due to the challenging nature and length of the ride. If you plan to bring a dog, ensure they are safely secured in a bike trailer designed for pets and are accustomed to long distances and varying road conditions.

No specific permits or entrance fees are required to cycle this route. However, the area is part of the Río Martín Cultural Park. While there are no fees for general access, visitors should respect local regulations regarding environmental protection and cultural heritage sites within the park.

The route typically starts from the town of Ejulve (Eljuve). You can find parking within the town itself. As it's a road cycling route, there isn't a traditional 'trailhead' like for hiking, but Ejulve serves as a convenient starting point with amenities.

Cyclists will experience an untamed and solitary environment with pine forests, ravines, and distinctive rock formations. Key highlights include the town of Alcaine, the Hermitage of Santa Ana, and the Old Pass of Las Traviesas. The views from the summit of Puerto de Majalinos offer impressive panoramic outlooks.

While the region around Ejulve has a significant mining history, this specific road cycling route primarily focuses on the natural landscape and the challenging climb to Puerto de Majalinos. You'll be in an area with a mining past, but direct engagement with prominent mining infrastructure on the paved circuit itself is not a primary characteristic.

Given the route's difficulty and length, bring a well-maintained racebike, appropriate cycling apparel, a helmet, and plenty of water, especially during warmer months due to limited shade. Nutrition, a repair kit, and navigation tools are also highly recommended.

Yes, while the route described starts from Ejulve, the climb to Puerto de Majalinos can also be approached from the Aliaga side. This ascent is longer (12.2 km) with a slightly gentler average slope (3.8%) but still features rough asphalt in sections and very little traffic. Choosing your starting point can alter the challenge and scenery.

Yes, sections of this route overlap with or are in close proximity to other trails. You may encounter parts of the Ruta de la Muela, Vuelta a la Muela, and the [CIMA TE08] Majalinos * Ejulve. The area also features parts of the Sendero del Río Martín.