Castillo de Feria and Salvatierra de los Barros Loop from Zafra

This challenging road cycling route is estimated to take approximately 4 hours and 38 minutes of active riding time. However, given its 'difficult' rating and significant elevation gain, you should plan for a longer overall trip, including breaks.

The route begins and ends in Zafra. While specific parking details aren't provided, Zafra is a town with various parking options. It's advisable to look for public parking areas or street parking near the town center to begin your ride.

No, this route is classified as 'difficult' for race biking and requires a high level of physical fitness. It involves significant elevation gain (over 1300 meters) and can include sections with challenging terrain, potentially requiring you to push your bike. It is not recommended for beginners.

The route is primarily designed for road cycling, traversing the rolling hills and wide pastures of the Tierra de Barros region. While mostly paved, some descriptions of paths in the vicinity of Feria mention 'very broken path with many loose stones,' suggesting that certain sections or connecting paths could be unpaved or in poor condition. Be prepared for varied surfaces.

You'll encounter several notable sights. Key highlights include panoramic Views of Feria, the historic Castillo de Feria, and the charming settlement of Salvatierra de los Barros. The route also offers views of the Sierra Vieja, the Villalba reservoir, and the extensive plains of Tierra de Barros.

The Extremadura region, where this route is located, can experience very hot summers. For a more comfortable and enjoyable ride, spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are generally the best seasons, offering milder temperatures and pleasant conditions for cycling.

Yes, this route briefly intersects with several other official trails. You'll find sections that overlap with the [CIMA BD01] Castillo de Feria, the Camino de Santiago del Sur, and the Mtb Vía de la Plata.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to cycle this route. It utilizes public roads and paths through the region.

This route is designed for race biking. While there are no specific restrictions against dogs on public roads, bringing a dog on a challenging 87 km racebike route is generally not practical or safe for the animal. If you wish to bring a dog, consider shorter, less demanding routes more suitable for walking or off-road cycling with a pet.

Given the route's 'difficult' rating and length, it's crucial to be well-prepared. Pack plenty of water and snacks, a repair kit (including spare tubes and a pump), appropriate cycling attire for varying weather, sun protection, and a fully charged phone. Due to potentially broken sections, robust tires are advisable.

The route passes through settlements like Salvatierra de los Barros and near Feria. These towns are likely to offer opportunities for refreshments, such as cafes or small shops, where you can refuel. However, it's always wise to carry sufficient water and snacks, especially on longer, more challenging sections.