Port of Palombera and Alto de San Cipriano from Ruente – circular through the Saja-Besaya Natural Park

The "Port of Palombera and Alto de San Cipriano from Ruente" loop immerses you in the heart of the Saja-Besaya Natural Park, offering a road cycling experience that combines the beauty of beech and oak forests with the majesty of mountain passes. Along its 69.2 miles (111.3 km), you'll encounter changing landscapes, from river valleys to high mountain pastures with panoramic views, passing through the challenging 12 hairpin bends of the Port of Palombera. It's a route that demands effort but rewards you with the natural essence of Cantabria.

For this 5-hour, 38-minute route, classified as difficult, it's essential to be in very good physical condition and plan your day well. Starting from Ruente, prepare for an elevation gain of 5632 feet (1717 meters), which includes ascents like the Alto de San Cipriano, featuring considerable gradients. Keep in mind that some sections might not be paved, adding an extra layer of adventure and potentially requiring you to dismount your bike at certain points.

This route is one of the most highly rated by the cycling community in Cantabria, not only for its physical challenge but also for traversing the region's largest protected area. The Saja-Besaya Natural Park is a biodiversity sanctuary, home to roe deer and wild boar, and offers a pristine natural environment. It's a unique opportunity to explore the ecological richness of the area while enjoying a demanding cycling tour.