7.PUENTE'S IBERIAN RIVER ADVENTURE: THE DUERO

Go to PUENTE HOME PAGE

Frontier between the Christians and the Moors for centuries during Spain's turbulent medieval times, barrier between warring Christian kingdoms, the Duero river defines much of the history of north-central Spain.

For this bike route we suggest the central part of this river, where charming old stone chapels alternate with the imposing ruins of the defensive castles typical of this medieval battlefront.  But if you're looking for something else, the less-populated western part of the river, or the first lazy loops after the source also have their scenery and history, with more castles, churches large and small and a series of small, sleepy towns where tourists rarely go.

But that's not all. Vineyards and wine cellars line the river from the east-central part almost to the Portuguese border, including the famous Ribera del Duero growing region for reds, and the lesser known Rueda area for whites.   Sampling some of the local produce at dinner is part of the trip;   visiting the wine museum or a cellar is definitely on our list of priorities!

  

Soria, Spain. Country chapel with side porch near Duero river
back to trip map More photos this area
SUGGESTED TRIP: Biking, 6 - 8 days
DESCRIPTION TERRAIN / DIFFICULTY: Base route follows river valley so is quite flat. A few longer days due to spacing of suitable hotels. Lots of options for side routes, some long and / or hilly.
SUGGESTED MEET / DEPART: Madrid or Soria
SUGGESTED GROUP SIZE: Maximum 15 people, larger groups may be possible depending on exact route and group breakdown as some hotels are rather small.