Ambroz

If there is something that characterises the Ambroz Valley, the exuberance of its forests, broadleaves and conifers play to form a mosaic that, in the autumn months, acquires all its splendour.

The Ambroz Valley is a place of contrasts, with mountains that exceed 2,000 meters and areas of meadow and pasture at only 500 meters of altitude, with an abundance of water due to the gorges and rivers that descend quickly from the mountains.

This difference in height gives rise to a significant gap in a relatively short space interval, which results in that the network of trails that cross these mountains have excellent downhill sections.

Highlights of the trip:

In addition to touring the spectacular trails that cross the green forests that characterise this natural region surrounding the Sierra de Gredos, we will have the opportunity to:

• Enjoy the excellent local cuisine.
• Stay in a high-quality hotel establishment.
• Immerse yourself in the local lifestyle of the inhabitants of these mountains.
• Know and visit Hervás, with a merely spectacular Jewish neighbourhood.

To make the crossing in conditions of safety and comfort, both individually and collectively, requires an excellent physical and technical condition, for this we put all our efforts to organise groups with a similar level.

Keep in mind that the level of skill required reflects an overall rating of the tour, but you should consider that we will find specific sections and obstacles that will increase the level of difficulty, both physical and technical.

To do this during the booking process, through the form that must complement, we will determine your needs, and in this way, we make sure that we put you in a group according to your physical and technical level. The maximum number of members of the group will be five bikers plus a guide, in addition to the support vehicle.

We establish the meeting point at the entrance of the municipality of Hervás (Cáceres), in the days before the guide will specify the exact location.

This package varies according to the month in which it developed, and this is what we have planned so that we can make the most of the sunlight hours.

For November, December and February the schedule is as follows:

• Day 1 (Friday): the activity begins around 11:00 in the morning (this way we give a margin of time so that you have enough time to reach Hervás). We will be riding about 5 hours.
• Day 2 (Saturday): the activity begins around 9:00 in the morning. We will be riding about 7 hours.
• Day 3 (Sunday): the activity starts approximately 9:00 in the morning. We will be riding about 5 hours.

For March, April and May the schedule is as follows:

• Day 1 (Friday): the activity starts around 5:00 p.m. (this way we give you a margin of time so that you have enough time to reach Hervás). We will be riding about 3 hours.
• Day 2 (Saturday): the activity begins around 9:00 in the morning. We will be riding about 8 hours.
• Day 3 (Sunday): the activity starts approximately 9:00 in the morning. We will be riding about 6 hours.

Apparently, the schedules may vary depending on the weather conditions and the characteristics of the group.

Ideally, after a great day of mountain biking, the accommodation offers all possible comforts to make you feel at home, a place to relax and rest. Therefore, the quality and personalised treatment of the accommodations we choose is a mark of identity of this Bike Adventure.

Another high point of this adventure is the excellent gastronomy. Therefore, we encourage you to taste the local cuisine, based on local foods. However, there is also the option of ordering more recognisable simple dishes.

Hospederia Valle del Ambroz

This pack is planned to spend all the hours of activity riding a bicycle. We think that at the end of each day you can spend time relaxing or visiting Hervás, which is well worth a quiet visit. At the end of the afternoon, next to a few beers, we will hold a briefing the next day.

We have selected some activities, not included in the price, with which to complete your experience:

• Electric bicycle rental

What are the characteristics of the group members?

We only organize trips for small groups. The maximum number of people allowed for this trip is 5, and the minimum group size is 3. The itineraries are designed to be successfully completed by bikers between the ages of 30 and 50. However, we truly believe that age is more of a state of mind than anything else! Therefore, we welcome anyone over the age of 18, as long as they have a good level of physical fitness and solid biking skills.

Who will guide us?

Our mountain bike guides are locals from Extremadura and experienced professionals who have a true passion for mountain biking, as well as for the culture and landscape of northern Extremadura. For them, your safety and ensuring you have the best possible experience is their top priority. They will always be available to answer any questions or requests you may have during your trip.

Do we need to bring all our gear with us?

No, you only need to carry a hydration backpack with a 2-liter water bladder, along with the basic kit you’d normally take when you go riding. This means: a basic tool kit, lubricant, spare parts, a mobile phone, and documentation with an emergency contact number.

What clothing and equipment should I bring?

Daytime and nighttime temperatures in this part of Spain vary significantly, so you should have several layers of breathable clothing to ensure you’re always comfortable regardless of the ambient temperature. You should also bring cycling shorts, gloves, shoes, a helmet, sunglasses, knee pads, elbow pads (optional), and sunscreen. Read the full kit list to find out what you’ll need to pack based on the season.

Clothing recommendations for autumn and spring:

• Base layer: lightweight technical t-shirt (not cotton) (long or short sleeve).
• Summer gloves.
• Long-sleeve cycling jersey.
• Short or baggy pants.
• Long socks.
• Rain jacket.
• After riding: a few t-shirts, sweatshirts, pants, and a light jacket.

Clothing recommendations for winter:

• Base layer: lightweight technical t-shirt (not cotton) with long sleeves.
• Winter gloves.
• Long-sleeve cycling jersey.
• Short or baggy pants.
• Long socks.
• Soft-shell jacket.
• Rain jacket.
• After riding: a few t-shirts, sweatshirts, pants, and a winter jacket.

What type of mountain bike is best for this activity?

A high-quality full-suspension mountain bike with suspension travel between 130-160 mm will be ideal for tackling the descents. We also recommend bringing tubeless tires or tubed tires with sealant, with an ideal width of 2.3 or 2.4. Additionally, make sure your bike is in perfect mechanical condition, including properly adjusted suspensions.

What is the climate like in this part of Spain?

The climate in this area has a strong Atlantic influence. Maximum and minimum temperatures are milder than would typically correspond to its latitude. This is largely due to the Sierra de Gredos, which shields the region from northern winds in winter and cools the intense daytime sun in summer with gentle breezes that flow from the mountains into the valleys.

Do you have more questions?

Send us an email at: info@bikesatforest.com