Avellanar: Hiking, mountain biking, and local history

Two routes differ in format and activity: the Ruta de las Alquerías is a 17.1 km linear, one-way route for hiking or running; the Valle del Esperabán – Memorial Pedro Vicente is a 59 km mountain biking loop. Forests, traditional vernacular architecture, and local history add to the area’s appeal.

Getting there and finding your way

From Pinofranqueado, you can reach Avellanar via the CC-156 road. After about 7 km, you’ll reach the turnoff for Avellanar; the final 2 km or so are along a narrow, winding road. Cars cannot access the narrow streets in the village. The street layout was originally designed around the only means of transport available at the time: animals, especially mules, donkeys, and burros. Mobile phone coverage in Avellanar can be unreliable and may change over time. If you need coverage while there, check the current coverage for your plans.

The Ruta de las Alquerías

The Ruta de las Alquerías begins at the Volvedero de Aldehuela and ends in the square in Pinofranqueado. The 17.1 km route is linear and runs in one direction along a dirt track; it can be walked or run. For most of its length, it follows the right bank of the Río Esperabán. The path is well maintained and marked with white and yellow posts. At kilometer 8.6, the route reaches the Puente de Avellanar, which is halfway along. The start and finish are therefore in different places; take both into account when planning the linear route. There is also a natural pool at the Puente de Avellanar, about 2 km from Avellanar.

Mountain biking and route comparison

The Valle del Esperabán – Memorial Pedro Vicente is a 59 km mountain biking loop along dirt tracks. It passes the Puente de Avellanar and runs along hillsides at elevations of 500 to 600 meters. Comparing it with the Ruta de las Alquerías makes the difference clear: the latter is a 17.1 km linear route for hiking or running, while this one is a 59 km mountain biking loop. The routes therefore differ in both activity and layout.

Forests and local history

Avellanar has forests of conifers, chestnut trees, and cherry trees. The name Avellanar is thought to be linked to the abundance of hazel trees. The residents were known as “montesinos” because they spent a lot of time in the mountains and looked after cherry, chestnut, and hazel trees. Chestnut and cherry trees thus feature both in the description of the forests and in accounts of the residents. In the past, the Río Avellanar was used to irrigate Avellanar’s fields and orchards, which have now largely been abandoned. Avellanar also retains areas of great value featuring traditional vernacular architecture.

For the wider travel overview: Pinofranqueado.