Cycling day trip from Astorga to Ponferrada

This route takes you from the historic city of Astorga to Ponferrada, covering around 62 km through the heart of the beautiful León province in northwest Spain. Astorga is famous for its Roman history, the striking Gaudí-designed Episcopal Palace, and its status as an important stop on the Camino de Santiago.

The ride is far from flat—you’ll rack up nearly 1,500 meters of climbing and over 1,800 meters of descent. Expect a mix of surfaces: plenty of gravel and unpaved tracks (together making up most of the route), with just a handful of smooth stretches. It’s a real mixed-terrain adventure, perfect for gravel bikes or robust touring setups.

You’ll spend most of your time on quiet tracks and some charming country paths, with very little exposure to busy roads. As you crest the highest point at just over 1,460 meters, be sure to take in the epic mountain views before descending towards Ponferrada, home to a stunning Templar castle. It’s a rewarding and scenic ride—bring snacks, plenty of water, and a sense of adventure!