La Espuña (Alhama de Murcia)

Start Town	Altitude	Elevation Gain	Length	Gradient	Difficulty	Rating
Alhama de Murcia	1,568m	1,348m	26.0 km	5.2%	894	****

Climb Description

The Murcia region in eastern Spain is not blessed with many great climbs. The Costa Blanca area to the north and Andalucia to the south are both much better options for cyclists who love to go uphill.

However if you are staying in Murcia, the Sierra Espuña mountains are by far the best option. They contain several long and enjoyable climbs, which can be reached during a day ride from across most of the province.

This climb from Alhama is incredibly popular with local cyclists - including a certain Alejandro Valverde who lives nearby. It's steady gradients and large amount of elevation give it the feel of a climb in high mountains, but it also has the advantage that it can be ridden throughout the winter!

Much of the first part of the climb is in forest, but after passing the Collado Bermejo it opens up more with some fantastic views across Murcia. The climb finishes at a military base at the top of the mountain.

La Espuña is open throughout they ear.

Roads & Traffic

The road surface is generally in good condition.

There is some traffic on the road as you leave Alhama de Murcia, but it thins out quite quickly. Once you enter the Espuña Natural Park it is usually quiet, although expect a few cars if you are riding on the weekend.

Alternative Routes

La Espuña can be climbed from Totana in a similarly long and steady ascent.

Another nice route climbs into the mountains from the village of El Berro in the north.

Nearby Climbs

Xorret de Catí

Coll del Cid

Sierra Cabrera

Cycling Holidays

We can arrange customized cycling holidays to Murcia and the surrounding regions, including the climb to La Espuña. If you would be interested in this, please contact us to discuss the options and to put together an itinerary.

You may also be interested in the links below to some of the other tours that we currently run in Spain.