Castile to the Bay of Biscay

Castile to the Bay of Biscay is a self-guided tour tracing a dramatic change of scenery, from the high plains of Castile to the Cantabrian coast. Starting at 930 metres above sea level in Campoo, at the head of the River Ebro, the first two days cross into Castilla y León and the province of Palencia, past storks and Romanesque architecture to the medieval castle town of Aguilar de Campoo, then around the Aguilar reservoir to the market town of Cervera de Pisuerga, with views over the reservoirs and mountains from the Parador.

A radical change of scenery follows: an easy ride to the pass of Piedraluengas, then a huge, unforgettable descent into Cantabria and the valley of Potes, in the heart of the Picos de Europa, where two nights and a free day are spent. The free day offers out-and-back rides of any distance, a cable car trip from Fuente Dé into the mountains, or simply exploring the bustling market town.

Leaving the mountains for the coast, the route follows the River Deva through the impressive gorge of La Hermida into Asturias, reaching the fishing village of San Vicente de la Barquera. The final stage follows the coast past wonderful beaches and coves, through Comillas with Gaudí's El Capricho and the lemon groves of Novales, to finish at the medieval village of Santillana del Mar and its famous Caves of Altamira.

Highlights:

• The lesser-known area where Castile meets the Cantabrian Mountains, with wildlife including brown bear, wolves and vultures
• 11th-century castle and medieval architecture of Aguilar de Campoo
• Views over the reservoirs and mountains from the Parador de Cervera de Pisuerga
• The descent from the Piedrasluengas pass into the Picos de Europa
• Free day at Potes, with the Fuente Dé cable car
• La Hermida gorge and the medieval village of Santillana del Mar

Surface and terrain:
Varied terrain, easy to moderate. Starts at 900m with a mix of flattish riding, minor ascents and some long descents. Route options with differing ascent on two days. Carbon, e-road, trekking and e-hybrid bikes offered.

Suitable for:
Self-guided cyclists wanting a genuine change of scenery, from high Castilian plains to mountain descents and coastal riding, with a free day in the Picos de Europa.