Tour of the Sierras

The Regional Park of the Sierra Espuna covers some 25,000 hectares, takes its name from its highest mountain, the Espuna at 1583m and it has some 20 mountain peaks above 1000m. The 25km climb at an average gradient of 5.4% is worth the effort as the views over the pine forests are magnificent.

The ascent of the Cat. 1 Alto Collado Bermajo (1200m) featuring in both the Vuelta a Espana and the Tour of Murcia is a regularly climbed by Murcia’s own Alejandro Valverde and his Moviestar team mates.

The Regional Park Sierra de la Pila is situated between the towns of Jumilla, Abarán, Blanca, Molina de Segura and Fortuna. It has a total area of approximately 8,836 hectares. It has been proposed as an SCI (Site of Community Importance), and is also capable of being incorporated into the Natura 2000 network. Most of the park is designated as SPAs (Special Protection Area for birds). The park, like the mountains, can be divided into 2 large sections separated by the gorge of the Mule: An eastern sector which are the highest peaks (1,264 m La Pila with The Cenajo with 1,200 m). Another western sector dominated by the summit of Caramucel to 1,023 m altitude.  It is noteworthy for its scenic, botanical and wildlife the area of Fuente de la Higuera and the Cenajo Umbria. At an average gradient of 7%, the 10km climb is, although testing, again, worth the effort, just to appreciate the breathtaking scenery. 

Just like the Sierra Espuna, the Sierra de la Pila is also a mecca for Pro Tour teams on their early season training camps.

Couple these two amazing locations with the rest of the weeks itinerary and it becomes obvious that a truly spectacular weeks riding is assured.