7 Night - Cities of Castile

15-22 May 2010 Guided Tour

A chance to explore Central Spain. Castile is home to some of the most beautiful and monumental cities in Europa and our trip gives us the chance to see two of the most famous; Segovia & Ávila, along with Felipe II's immense monastery and residence El Escorial.

These cities are steeped in history and have kept their historical centres intact over the centuries. Sights include the magnificent Roman aqueduct in Segovia and the impressive city walls of the fortified city of Ávila.

Rivalling the spectacle of these cities are the landscapes, ranging from the endless horizons of the plains of Castile to the dramatic beauty of the Sierra de Gredos mountains (one of Spain's best-kept secrets) as we head towards El Escorial and Madrid. Great variety for a week's cycling.

You can also extend your trip with a stay in Madrid, Spain's vibrant and exciting capital, or take the opportunity to visit the magnificent city of Toledo.

Trip Code - SAT7CAS

Day 2 Round ride from Segovia

Today we have two optional round rides from Segovia.

Our shorter ride takes us to the Palacio de La Granja de San Ildefonso, the magnificent 18th century palace built by Felipe V as a summer residence.

Our longer ride will take us to visit the picturesque village of Turégano with its fine fortified church / castle.



Distance short 40 km - 25 miles
long 68 km - 42 miles

Day 3 Segovia - Arévalo

This ride takes us west across the Castilian plains towards the town of Arévalo. The Sierra de Guadarrama (the range mountains to the north of Madrid) is left behind us.

The route combines small sleepy villages, immense horizons, pine forests and the fine castle of Coca.

We finally arrive in the medieval town of Arévalo, famous for its mudéjar architecture, its castle, the medieval Plaza de la Villa, and last but not least, cochinillo, the tender suckling pig so popular in this part of Spain.

Distance short 59 km -37 miles
long 82 km - 50 miles

Day 4 Arévalo - Ávila

From Arévalo, we begin to head south again towards the mountains of the Sistema Central. We reach the historical town of Madrigal de las Altas Torres, birthplace of Isabel La Católica.


Our route takes us through untouched Castilian villages across the fertile plains until we finally reach the city of Ávila, the highest provincial capital of Spain, surrounded by its magnificently preserved walls. Here we can enjoy an evening stroll around the historical centre and enjoy its marvellous tapas.

Distances - short 55 km - 35 miles
long 103 km -64 miles

Day 5Ávila - Sierra de Gredos

Today we cross the Sierra de Gredos, the mountain range separating the two Castiles. Beautiful dramatic scenery, where vultures soar over the rocky landscape. Olive trees and cherry blossom decorate the valleys. Our support vehicle is on hand should anyone need a "push".

On arrival at the village of Hoyos del Espino, a transfer is available to the heart of the Reserva Nacional de Gredos to see the impressive higher peaks crowned by the Almanzor.





Distance Short 60 km - 38 miles
Long 82 km - 51 miles

Day 6Sierra de Gredos - Cebreros

From Hoyos del Espino we descend the valley formed by the River Alberche - an easy ride as we descend 650 metres / 2100 feet through the very heart of the mountain range. Wild and beautiful scenery combines with the spectacular flora and fauna of the region. Finally we reach the wine-producing village of Cebreros.





Distance Short 45 km - 28 miles
Long 84 km - 53 miles

Day 7Cebreros - El Escorial

A short ride from Cebreros takes us through pine forests and fine scenery towards the magnificent monastery and summer palace of San Lorenzo del Escorial, built by Felipe II in the XVI century, burial place of Spanish monarchs and home to a magificent art collection.



Extend your route by 26 km if you wish with a visit to the Valle de los Caídos.