A-397 Road from Ronda to San Pedro de Alcántara Motorcycle Route

The A-397 road is located in the Andalusia region of Spain, running between the towns of Ronda and San Pedro de Alcántara. Ronda, situated approximately 3 kilometers from the road's starting point, is a historic town known for its dramatic escarpments and deep gorges. San Pedro de Alcántara lies near the road's endpoint, about 2 kilometers away, on the Mediterranean coast. The road crosses several mountain ranges including the Sierra Palmitera, Sierra de Trincheruelas, Serranía de Ronda, Sierra del Oreganal, and the broader Sistema Bético mountain system (Cordilleras Béticas).

An interactive map showing the A-397 road can be found at the end of this article.

The A-397 extends for approximately 42 kilometers (26 miles) and is primarily a two-lane asphalt road with excellent surface quality rated at 4.8 out of 5. The road width is predominantly wide (about 92%), with a small portion of middle width (7%). It is lightly curvy, with a curviness rating of 1.27 on a scale where 3 is extremely twisty, making it suitable for riders who prefer a balance between technical riding and steady cruising.

The road ascends from a low elevation of 69 meters (226 feet) near San Pedro de Alcántara to a high point of 1,134 meters (3,720 feet) as it crosses mountain passes. The maximum speed limit is 60 km/h (37 mph), reflecting the road's mountainous terrain and safety considerations. Only a small fraction of the route (about 3%) passes through inhabited areas, allowing riders to experience mostly natural surroundings.

The A-397 is classified as a mountain pass road, featuring several notable passes. The highest is Puerto del Madroño at 1,065 meters (3,494 feet), with another section of the same pass at 925 meters (3,035 feet). Additionally, the road crosses Puerto de la Alizada at 449 meters (1,473 feet). These passes provide elevation changes that contribute to the road's moderate curviness and offer riders varied terrain and riding challenges.

The road runs along several viewpoints that provide opportunities for riders to stop and appreciate the surrounding landscape. These viewpoints are located within the mountainous terrain of the Sierra Palmitera and Serranía de Ronda ranges, offering panoramic views of the Andalusian countryside. The route's proximity to these natural attractions enhances its appeal for motorcycle touring.

The A-397 is a well-maintained road with no current tolls or entrance fees, although conditions may change, so riders should verify before travel. The road surface is predominantly asphalt and in excellent condition, making it suitable for a wide range of motorcycles. For more detailed information about the mountain ranges crossed by the road, riders can consult the Cordilleras Béticas Wikipedia page.