The route covers a distance of 42.5 kilometres, the described route runs in a North-South direction. On the journey we will pass through the slopes of the western slope of the Picacho, Aljibe and Montero and we will cross respectively through the tributaries La Cierva or Puerto Oscuro, Montero, Alberite, Laurel, Arnao and Peguera. Together these tributaries supply almost all of the flow of the Barbate River, which we will see in all the panoramic views offered on this route and that since 1993 has been adorned by the waters of a reservoir built in the middle of the course.

Due to the distance to be covered, we will divide the route into 4 sections, highlighting individually any difficulties for cycling and points of interest:

Section 1 - Up to the Picacho shelter.

Difficulty: Ascent by forest track with sharp curves.

points of interest:

§ Views of the Picacho, which from our position appears as a magnificent and impenetrable rocky pyramid.

§ We cross the gorge of the young Barbate river, here known as el Puerto Oscuro or ‘the Dark Port’, along this section there is a typical gallery forest composed of alders, Valencian oaks and willows.

§ We can observe the flight of birds of prey beneath the cliffs of Picacho and, if we are in luck, roe deer or deer running among the bushes.

Section 2 - Until the second crossing over the Tajo Sancho.

Difficulty: Descent with low gradient.

Points of interest:

§ You can enjoy views of the Bay of Cádiz and the Barbate reservoir.

§ En el kilómetro 10,7 después de pasar la presa se cruza el arroyo del Montero.

§ At kilometre 10.7, after passing the dam, cross the Montero stream.

§ At kilometre 14, after crossing for the first time under the Tajo Sancho, in the turn-off that the lane makes to avoid the mountainous incline, there are beautiful views of the Patriste valley and the town of Alcalá de los Gazules, with the old flour mills of the Montero at our feet.

§ When we arrive under the Tajo Sancho for the second time, we come across the crest of the vulture colony, whose occupants, along with their excrement, speck the Tagus with white.

Section 3 - Up to the river Alberite.

Difficulty: At first, although more gently, we continue with the previous climb, in order to climb the 500-meter curve, and travel for approximately 4 kilometres.

Points of interest:

§ As we cross the many sources of the Alberite and Laurel rivers, we pass through the cork oak and Valencian oak forest. Here the lane runs smoothly and its surface is in very good condition. All this makes this place one of the most beautiful routes that can be done by bike through these mountains. It is topped off with beautiful panoramic views of the Barbate reservoir with Benalup-Casas Viejas, Vejer de la Frontera and Medina Sidonia in the background.

§ During the descent to the Arnao stream, we find several areas of repopulated pines where there is the possibility of discovering a deer or roe deer. Upon reaching the passover above the Canuto de Arnao forest gallery you can see the majestic flight of the vultures.

Section 4 - Up to the Peguera stream.

Difficulty: Head down from the Arnao passover to el Puerto del Membrillo (3 kilometres) where there is a gate with a pedestrian crossing on one side. From the Membrillo passover to the end, the path, with a loose gravel surface, becomes a very dangerous descent in which it is advisable to be careful to avoid falls.

Points of interest:

§ At el Arnao there is a change in direction, heading towards the western slope of the sierra to join Alberite and Laurel and thus forms what will become the Barbate River.

§ After the dangerous descent, the path entering the Peguera stream, has very pleasant and different views from the cork oak forest. Alders and Valencian oaks take over the wooded gallery, the ash trees resist leaving the water’s course, the ivy and vines grow extraordinarily, covering trunks and sometimes protruding above the trees. The diversity of fauna choosing to frequent this place is difficult to see due to the lush vegetation, but it is as abundant as its flora.

Note: From September 15 to February 15 it is necessary to consult in advance with the natural park office to do this trail, since there are big-game hunting activities in the area, and for security reasons, it is not feasible for these uses to coincide.