Traveling tips for Castilla and Leon

11-03-2025

Planning a cycling trip to Castilla y Leon? This historic and diverse region of Spain offers a wide variety of cycling routes, from flat plains to rugged mountain trails, all surrounded by rich culture and beautiful landscapes. From its stunning cathedrals and medieval castles to its vast plains and rolling hills, Castilla y León offers a unique blend of experiences that cater to every type of traveler. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or a casual rider, this guide will provide you with all the essential information you need to make the most of your trip to this enchanting region.

Whether you're a, here's everything you need to know to organize the perfect cycling adventure in Castilla y Leon.

How to get there:

Castilla y Leon has a well-connected transportation system, making getting there by bus, train, airplane and even car reasonably easy.

For flying internationally, the best airports are Madrid airport, Leon and Burgos. The Madrid airport is the largest, with several domestic flights connecting to every city of our tours. From these airports, you can take a bus, rent a car, or even hire a transfer to your starting point.

Our trips start from either Segovia, or Burgos, all well-accessed cities.

By train:

Castilla y Leon is well-connected to Spain’s major spain cities through the Renfe train network. To know more about the trainways, you can check the following website. You will be able to access the region by first going to Madrid, then you will be able to catch a high-speed AVE train from Madrid to cities like Valladolid, Salamanca or Burgos. Trains typically allow you to transport your bike. We recommend you check the specific rules ahead of time to ensure smooth travel.

By bus:

Buses are also a great option. Like cars, buses are, in our opinion, more of a choice if you are in Spain. Major bus companies operate services between Madrid and various cities like Leon, Segovia and Salamanca. You can book your seat on Omio. Bus travel is affordable and typically offers space for bikes. You can check specific information about rules on the website.

By car:

If you are already near one of our tour guides, we recommend renting a car. It can give you the flexibility to explore Castilla y Leon at your own pace. The road network is extensive, and you can easily drive to your starting point. Be aware, though, that some areas are quite rural, and services may be limited, so plan your route accordingly.

Best Time to Cycle in Castilla y Leon:

Castilla y Leon’s diverse climate offers something for cyclists year-round. However, the best time to plan your trip depends on your preferences for weather, terrain, and crowd levels.

Spring (March to May): Spring is one of the best times to cycle in Castilla y Leon. The temperatures are mild, the landscapes are green and blooming, and the region isn’t crowded with tourists. Spring offers ideal conditions for cycling through towns like Avila, Salamanca, and Segovia.

Summer (June to August): Summer brings warmer weather, especially to the plains and lowlands, so it’s ideal if you’re looking to enjoy longer days and sunny skies. However, the summer months can be quite hot in certain areas, such as Burgos or Palencia, where temperatures regularly exceed 30°C (86°F).

Autumn (September to November): Autumn is another great season for cycling, with cooler weather and less intense heat than in summer. The changing foliage in the countryside also makes for a picturesque ride, particularly in the mountainous regions like the Sierra de Guadarrama.

Winter (December to February): Winter cycling in Castilla y Leon offers an entirely different experience. The mountains will likely be covered in snow, creating a magical atmosphere. For those who don’t mind the chill, winter offers a peaceful cycling experience with fewer tourists and a serene landscape.

What to See and Do in Castilla y León:

Castilla y León is a treasure trove of natural beauty, historic sites, and cultural experiences. Here are some must-see attractions:

Natural Scenery: The region is known for its diverse landscapes, including the vast plains of Tierra de Campos, the rolling hills of the Montes de León, and the dramatic peaks of the Picos de Europa. The Duero River Valley offers stunning views and opportunities for wine tasting in the renowned Ribera del Duero and Rueda wine regions.

Historic Sites:

Burgos: Home to the magnificent Burgos Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the historic Monastery of Las Huelgas.
León: Known for its stunning Gothic cathedral and the Basilica of San Isidoro, which houses the Royal Pantheon.
Salamanca: A UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its university, one of the oldest in the world, and the Plaza Mayor, one of the most beautiful squares in Spain.
Segovia: Famous for its Roman aqueduct, the Alcázar of Segovia, and the stunning Segovia Cathedral.
Ávila: Known for its well-preserved medieval walls and the Cathedral of Ávila.

Local Products and Shopping:

Castilla y León is famous for its artisan products and culinary delights. Here are some must-buys:

Wine: The region is renowned for its high-quality wines, including those from the Ribera del Duero, Rueda, and Toro wine regions.
Cheese: Castilla y León is known for its delicious cheeses, such as Zamorano and Burgos cheese.
Meats: The region is famous for its cured meats, including Jamón Ibérico and Cecina de León.

Gastronomy: Food and Drinks:

Castilla y León's cuisine is hearty and flavorful, with a focus on local ingredients. Some must-try dishes include:

Cocido Maragato: A traditional stew from the Maragatería region, made with various meats and vegetables.
Lechazo: Roasted suckling lamb, a specialty of the region.
Morcilla de Burgos: A type of blood sausage from Burgos.
Tosta de Cerdo: A traditional pork dish from Segovia.
Wine: The region is famous for its high-quality wines, including those from the Ribera del Duero, Rueda, and Toro wine regions.

Top Cycling Routes in Castilla y Leon:

The region boasts an array of routes for cyclists of all levels. Whether you're in the mood for flat terrain or challenging mountain climbs, Castilla y Leon has it all:

Castilla discovery tour : Segovia to Sepulveda Dreaming of a journey filled with dazzling views of the Spanish countryside and breathtaking castles? Start your journey by going back in time to the marvelous 1,000-year old city of Segovia, where the fantasy-like sandstone cathedral and Alcazar fortress await for you to begin your own fairy tale adventure.

Cycling from Castilla to La Rioja : Wine and Dine On this week-long cycling tour, you’ll ride through and discover not one, but three Spanish regions: beginning from Burgos in the Castile, you’ll then cross over into wine-growing La Rioja and dip briefly into neighboring Basque Country. Winding by rivers, old railways, and vineyards along cycle paths and quiet roads, you’ll enjoy a variety of landscapes and routes, including a section on the famous Camino de Santiago pilgrimage way.

To know more about what you need on our tours, check out our travel blogs about the packing list, Comprehensive tips, International Cell Phones, Traveling With Your Bike and Tips for saving money on cycling yours.

Castilla y Leon offers a fantastic cycling experience, combining stunning landscapes, rich history, and diverse routes. Whether you prefer the challenge of mountain climbing, the serenity of the plains, or the cultural richness of its cities, this region has something for everyone. With the right planning, your cycling trip to Castilla y Leon will be an unforgettable adventure.

Useful links:

Tourism:

https://www.turismocastillayleon.com/en

https://www.spain.info/fr/destination/burgos/

https://www.spain.info/en/destination/salamanca/

Are you ready for your next adventure with Cyclomundo? Contact us.