Portillo del Infierno Trail

This route is classified as a moderate mountain bike ride. It demands good fitness and advanced riding skills due to its varied terrain and significant elevation gain. Some sections may even require you to push your bike, placing it within the STS S2 difficulty range.

The terrain is quite diverse. You'll start with progressive inclines on dirt tracks and some singletrack. The middle section becomes more challenging with significant ascents and technical descents over stony paths and stone slabs. The return leg offers gentler slopes, transitioning back to dirt tracks and scenic riverside trails.

The route is a loop starting and ending in Villadiego, so you can typically find parking within the town. Look for public parking areas in Villadiego to begin your ride conveniently.

Spring and autumn are generally the best times to tackle this route. The weather is usually milder, and the landscapes are vibrant. Summer can be very hot, and winter might bring challenging conditions like mud or snow, especially in higher sections.

As this trail is located within the Las Loras UNESCO Global Geopark, it's important to respect local regulations. Generally, this means staying on marked trails, not disturbing wildlife or geological formations, and practicing Leave No Trace principles. There are typically no specific permits or entrance fees required for mountain biking on public trails within the Geopark, but always check for any local updates before your visit.

While dogs are often allowed on trails in Spain, given the technical nature and length of this mountain bike route, it might be challenging for some dogs. If you bring your dog, ensure they are well-behaved, accustomed to long, strenuous rides, and always keep them on a leash, especially when passing through villages or near livestock. Remember to carry enough water for both you and your pet.

You'll encounter several interesting features. The route passes by the Medieval bridge over the Brullés River (Villadiego), offers views from the Path Below Peña Ulaña, and includes the impressive Peña Castillo with its sculpted rock faces. The dramatic "Portillo del Infierno" gorge itself is a significant highlight.

Yes, the route incorporates sections of several other trails. You'll ride parts of the R14 - Las Loras, Sendero de la Gargantilla, R16 - Ribera del Brullés, and Cañada del Monte, among others, offering a diverse riding experience.

The circular route passes through several small villages such as Tablada de Villadiego, Villalbilla de Villadiego, Hormicedo, Ordejón de Arriba, and Arenillas de Villadiego. While Villadiego itself offers cafes and pubs, options in the smaller villages might be limited, especially outside of peak season. It's always a good idea to carry sufficient water and snacks.

Given the route's length and difficulty, you should bring plenty of water, energy snacks, a repair kit for your bike (spare tube, pump, multi-tool), a first-aid kit, and appropriate clothing for varying weather conditions. A helmet is essential, and consider knee/elbow pads for the technical sections. A GPS device or a downloaded map is highly recommended as some sections can be remote.

No, this trail is not recommended for families with young children or beginner mountain bikers. It's classified as moderate and requires good fitness and advanced riding skills, with technical sections and significant elevation gain. Beginners might find it overly challenging and potentially unsafe.