Embarking on a cycling adventure that seamlessly combines the thrill of the ride with the comfort of camping is a dream for many enthusiasts. The following five circular routes, each offering camping facilities at every stage, provide the perfect blend of exploration and relaxation.
1. Pirinexus Loop
- Distance: 342 km
- Stages: 6
- Surface: 38% Asphalt
The Pirinexus Loop is a classic route that intertwines Girona’s Greenways, coastal paths, and mountainous terrains, even crossing into France for a brief stretch. Starting in Girona, where camping options are limited, it’s essential to plan your logistics accordingly.
Stages:
- Girona to Camp. Les Preses (52 km / +601 m)
- Camp. Les Preses to Camp. Els Solans (47 km / +1,075 m)
- Camp. Els Solans to Camp. Maureillas (75 km / +1,050 m)
- Camp. Maureillas to Camp. Sènia Riu (57 km / +545 m)
- Camp. Sènia Riu to HolaCamp Palamós (52 km / +243 m)
- HolaCamp Palamós to Girona (60 km / +435 m)
2. Horizonte Almería
- Distance: 269 km
- Stages: 4
- Surface: 48% Asphalt
This route offers a diverse experience through Almería’s coastal landscapes, mountainous regions, and desert expanses. Originating in Pechina, where camping facilities are available, it ensures a comfortable start and end to your journey.
Stages:
- Camp y Niño (Pechina) to Camp. Los Escullos (70 km / +684 m)
- Camp. Los Escullos to Camp. El Quinto (70 km / +1,147 m)
- Camp. El Quinto to Oasis Al Hamam Wellnesscamp (57 km / +1,778 m)
- Oasis Al Hamam Wellnesscamp to Camp y Niño (Pechina) (72 km / +1,367 m)
3. Vías Verdes Plazaola and Bidasoa
- Distance: 195 km
- Stages: 4
- Surface: 50% Asphalt
Connecting the Plazaola and Bidasoa Greenways, this route presents a mix of gentle paths and challenging climbs, including the ascent of Alto de Gorostieta. Each stage is equipped with camping facilities, ensuring a restful experience.
Stages:
- Camp. Aralar (Lekunberri) to Camp. Oliden (Oiartzun) (71 km / +450 m)
- Camp. Oliden to Camp. Ariztigain (Sunbilla) (48 km / +650 m)
- Camp. Ariztigain to Camp. Izarpe (Aróstegui) (53 km / +1,145 m)
- Camp. Izarpe to Camp. Aralar (Lekunberri) (24 km / +324 m)
4. Sierra de Guara
- Distance: 235 km
- Stages: 4
- Surface: 87% Asphalt
Encircling the Sierra de Guara, this route showcases the Pre-Pyrenean region’s stunning canyons and natural beauty. Utilizing primarily low-traffic roads, it offers a serene cycling experience. Starting in Huesca, where camping facilities are absent, planning your arrival logistics is crucial.
Stages:
- Huesca to Camp. Valle de Nocito (Nocito) (52 km / +1,250 m)
- Camp. Valle de Nocito to Camping La Gorga (Boltaña) (53 km / +1,208 m)
- Camping La Gorga to Camping Río Vero (Alquézar) (62 km / +1,088 m)
- Camping Río Vero to Huesca (68 km / +1,080 m)
5. Vías Verdes de la Ruta de la Plata and Valle del Jerte
- Distance: 342 km
- Stages: 3
- Surface: 26% Asphalt
Traversing the Ambroz and Jerte valleys via the Silver Route Greenway, this circular route offers a blend of historical paths and natural landscapes. Beginning in Béjar, where camping options are unavailable, it’s advisable to arrive on the same day as the route’s commencement.
Stages:
- Béjar to Camp. Valle del Jerte (Jerte) (62 km / +873 m)
- Camp. Valle del Jerte to Camp. La Chopera (Plasencia) (43 km / +424 m)
- Camp. La Chopera to Béjar (option to split this stage in Hervás) (65 km / +869 m)
Embarking on these “Triple C” routes—Cycling, Circular, and Camping—offers a harmonious blend of adventure and comfort. Before setting out, always verify the current status of camping facilities, as availability can change seasonally. For more detailed information and to download GPS tracks, refer to the original sources.�