2 min read Spain Winter/Spring 2026

Day 113: Morea/Moreda (Cycle/Drive)

On leaving Moreda (elevation 296 metres) the climbing immediately started and mostly continued like that all the way to Alto de San Iridro (elevation 1520 metres). For the first 17.5 kilometres the change in altitude is approximately 472 metres. Resulting in an average gradient of 2.69%. The final 11 kilometres is where the real climbing kicks-in: Average gradient 6.83%, with one kilometre having an average gradient of 10%.

Moreover, this split in change of average gradient coincides with the demarcation between scenicness: The route becomes significantly more scenic once you reach the 11 kilometres to go point.

Here's a photos:

When I left last night's stopover this morning the sun was shining. By the time I arrived at tonight's stopover it was overcast. In my haste to get cycling I neglected to put on suntan lotion (SPF 50). About 5 kilometres up the road the clouds were breaking up and the sun came out, it was then that it dawned on me I was suntan lotionless!

Instead of returning to the van I continued, and eventually stopped at a local petrol station (it being Sunday, in Spain most shops are closed). Where I paid a €15.60 idiot tax so that I could protect myself from the sun. €15.60 because the suntan lotion came as a set, with: after sun lotion and facial sun mist! Neither of which I'm likely to use. So, if you want these additional lotions/potions, its first come first served!

Anyway, safely lotioned-up I could relax and enjoy the ride. I'd say that the 11 kilometres up and down, to and from, Alto de San Isidro, make the ride well worth doing. Alternatively, start your ride closer to the summit! Oh, yes, the descent is excellent.

  • Distance driven: 34 miles
  • Distance cycled: 77 kilometres
  • Weather:-
    • General conditions: Temperature: Ride: overcast start, sun soon came out, leading to a clear blue sky before the fluffy white clouds started to develop.
    • Temperature: About 17°C increasing to 31°C on the steeper section of the climb!
    • Wind (Beaufort): Fresh breeze, which didn't seem know in which direction it wished to blow!
  • Location: Google Maps

Today's route: