Mountemplaria MTB
Mountemplaria BTT is much more than a sporting event: it is a unique experience combining nature, history, and excitement in the heart of El Bierzo. This prestigious mountain bike race, with start and finish at the imposing Castle of the Templars in Ponferrada, invites both athletes and active tourism enthusiasts to discover spectacular landscapes and historically rich corners.
The event takes place every year in June and offers two routes adapted to different difficulty levels: one more challenging for experienced cyclists, with over 2,800 meters of positive elevation gain; and a more accessible route, allowing participants to enjoy the beauty of the surroundings without sacrificing the challenge. Both routes cross natural areas such as Monte Pajariel, the Oza Valley, and the mystical Tebaida Berciana, declared a Cultural Interest Site, turning the race into a journey through El Bierzo’s natural and spiritual heritage.
Mountemplaria is designed for each participant to live a complete adventure. Along the route, technical trails combine with forest paths, historic roads, and panoramic views, delighting both athletes and accompanying visitors. The atmosphere at the start and finish, next to the medieval castle, is truly special: a fusion between Templar legacy and the vibrant energy of outdoor sports.
For tourists, Mountemplaria is also an excellent opportunity to explore Ponferrada and its surroundings. Beyond the race, the city offers rich cultural and gastronomic experiences, museums, wineries, and monuments, providing unforgettable experiences. The hospitality of the locals and the welcoming character of El Bierzo make this event a must for those seeking a different, active, and soulful form of tourism.
Mountemplaria is an ideal way to combine adventure, sport, and discovery—a tourist attraction that makes mountain biking the perfect way to explore a magical land.
INFORMATION
📍 Location and Contact
- Start/Finish Point: Castle of the Templars, Ponferrada
- Approximate Coordinates: Latitude 42.54633°, Longitude -6.590833°
- Approximate Date: June
- Website: castillodelosttemplarios.com/la-mountemplaria
- Phone: +34 987 446 600 (Ayuntamiento de Ponferrada)
- Email: info@rutasbierzo.com
- Social Media:
🗣️ Languages Available:
- Spanish: Official and main language
- English: Due to growing international interest in sports and tourist events in Spain
♿ Accessibility: No. Mountemplaria BTT is a mountain biking race conducted on natural terrains in El Bierzo, with demanding routes including forest tracks, technical trails, and steep elevation changes. Due to these characteristics, the race is not designed for people with reduced mobility.
Non-members of C.D. Rutas del Bierzo: 30–60€ (*) Members of C.D. Rutas del Bierzo: 25–50€ (**)
(*) Non-members of C.D. Rutas del Bierzo: With dinner at the end of the event: 60 € / Without dinner: 30 €
(**) Members of C.D. Rutas del Bierzo: With dinner at the end of the event: 50 € / Without dinner: 25 €
These fees included participation in the event, civil liability and accident insurance, refreshment points along the route, and the possibility to take part in the post-event dinner. (Data based on 2025)
ℹ️ Additional Information: Checkpoints and Refreshments
- Espinoso de Compludo: Liquid and solid refreshments for both routes.
- San Cristóbal de Valdueza: Control closure at 10:00 for Route "A" and 11:00 for Route "B".
- Peñalba de Santiago: Refreshments for Route "A".
- San Clemente: Control closure at 14:00 for both routes.
- Ponferrada (Finish): Final refreshments and free physiotherapy service provided by Clínica O2 FISAD.
It is mandatory that each participant brings their own container (cup, bottle, or hydration backpack), as disposable cups will not be provided at the refreshment points.
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