Ricote Valley – GPX Route 1
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Description
Ricote Valley – GPX Route 1
Ride Overview
This breathtaking circular route from Murcia City delivers one of the most scenic and culturally rich rides in the region. The Ricote Valley Loop is a favourite for cyclists who enjoy long rides with rewarding climbs, quiet rural roads, and a deep dive into Murcia’s mountainous heartland.
Expect a mix of shaded river valleys, terraced hillsides, and historic towns like Cieza, Abarán, and Ricote, each offering a window into the region’s Moorish past and agricultural traditions.
Rides Statistics
Distance: 99 km
Elevation Gain: 1,360 m
Difficulty: Challenging
Estimated Ride Time: 4 – 5½ hours (steady endurance pace)
Start / Finish: Los Torraos (Molina de Segura) – convenient for Archena Spa hotels & MBH bike deliveries.
What to Expect
The route starts with a gentle roll out from Los Ramos, gaining elevation as you ride west into the foothills. The climbing begins early, peaking near the 25 km mark before rolling through stunning plateaus and remote countryside.
Once through Cieza, the road follows the Segura River into the Valle de Ricote, a verdant corridor flanked by cliffs and citrus groves. Smooth descents and peaceful roads through Blanca, Ricote, and Archena reward your efforts, before the route returns east on flatter terrain for a relaxed finish.
Key Highlights
🌄 Panoramic views across the Sierra de Ricote from multiple vantage points
🍊 Ricote Valley – famous for its lush greenery and Moorish history
🏘️ Cieza & Abarán – historic towns with café stop potential
🚴 Challenging climbs and descents to test your legs and skills
🧘 Archena’s thermal spa town – a possible detour for recovery or refreshments
Rider Tips
Perfect for experienced riders or those training for longer endurance events.
Bring plenty of fluids—some sections are remote with limited refill options.
Best ridden in spring or autumn for comfortable temperatures and lush landscapes.
All MBH bikes are equipped with compact 50/34 T gearing—ideal for this route’s terrain.
Download the GPX file to your Garmin, Wahoo, or Komoot for navigation support.
Book Your Carbon Road Bike with Murcia Bike Hire
Stay anywhere around Archena, Molina de Segura or the Mar Menor and we’ll deliver & collect your fully serviced carbon road bike at no extra cost. Every rental includes: dual bottle cages, saddle bag, pump, spare tube, GPS mount and our tried-and-tested 50/34-T drivetrain. Need pedals, helmet or SIS nutrition? Just tick the options during checkout – we’ve got you covered.
👉👉 Ready to ride the Ricote Valley? Reserve Your Carbon Road Bike Online