Olvera: Vía Verde de la Sierra to Chaparro de la Vega

The ride from Olvera follows the Vía Verde de la Sierra, a former railway line converted into a route for cycling, walking and horse riding. Greenways make use of disused railway tracks, so they generally have gentle gradients and pass through landscapes and railway structures that are difficult to experience from the road. This route is especially memorable for its tunnels, viaducts, restored stations and varied scenery, from open farmland to river valleys and Mediterranean vegetation. The full greenway connects Olvera with Puerto Serrano over about 36.5 km.

Bicycles can be rented near the old Olvera station, with electric bikes available. The ride first reaches the Zaframagón Viaduct, a 135 m-long structure standing 22 m above the ground, with seven arches. It offers striking views of the Peñón de Zaframagón and the Guadalporcún gorge. Nearby, the restored Zaframagón station houses an ornithological observatory and interpretation centre. The reserve is an important habitat for griffon vultures, which can often be seen circling above the crag.

The route continues to the Chaparro de la Vega, passing the Coripe Viaduct over the Guadalporcún River. At 237 m long, with 13 arches, it is one of the most impressive engineering features along the greenway. A short detour from the route leads to the Chaparro, a great old holm oak designated as a Natural Monument. Though the greenway continues beyond this point towards Puerto Serrano, the ride had to turn back at the Chaparro due to time constraints.

Food and drink are available at the restored Olvera and Coripe stations, which have restaurant services. The Zaframagón visitor centre also has a small café, generally open at weekends and on public holidays, so it is sensible to check opening times and carry water and snacks. Current access restrictions may affect which sections are rideable, so check the Vía Verde’s latest notices before setting out.