Carretera de Tabernas a Olula del Río por Macael Mountain Pass Route

This road is situated in the autonomous community of Andalusia in southern Spain, within the province of Almería. It connects the area near Purchena, a small town located approximately 7.4 kilometers from the road's starting point, and extends towards Olula del Río, passing through the village of Macael. The route lies within a mountainous landscape characterized by elevations ranging from 824 meters (2,703 feet) to 1,227 meters (4,026 feet), crossing two mountain passes: Collado del Yeso and Collado García, the latter reaching an elevation of 1,249 meters (4,098 feet). An interactive map showing the road can be found at the end of this article.

The Carretera de Tabernas a Olula del Río por Macael extends for approximately 21.6 kilometers (13.4 miles) and features an asphalt surface of very high quality, rated 4.9 out of 5. The road is predominantly wide, with about 98% of its length accommodating two lanes, facilitating comfortable overtaking and maneuvering. Curviness is moderate, rated just above 1 on a scale where 3 represents extreme twistiness, making it suitable for riders who prefer a balanced mix of straight sections and gentle bends.

Only a small portion of the road, approximately 0.8%, passes through inhabited areas, allowing for a mostly uninterrupted riding experience through natural and mountainous surroundings. The elevation changes along the route provide varied riding conditions, with the highest points near the mountain passes offering panoramic views of the Andalusian landscape.

This route is notable for crossing two mountain passes. Collado del Yeso is the first significant pass encountered, followed by Collado García, which is the higher of the two at 1,249 meters (4,098 feet). These passes contribute to the road's elevation profile and offer riders a chance to experience the mountainous terrain typical of this part of Andalusia. The passes are accessible year-round, although riders should be aware of potential weather-related conditions during winter months that could affect road safety.

Currently, there are no known permanent road closures affecting motorcycle access on this route. Seasonal closures are not typical, but riders should monitor local weather conditions during winter, as mountain passes can be susceptible to snow or ice. There are no tolls or entrance fees on this road, but toll policies may change, so it is advisable to check official Spanish road information sources for updates. More information about road tolls and fees in Spain can be found on the Dirección General de Tráfico website.

For riders interested in exploring this route, detailed maps and GPS data can be accessed through various online platforms. The road's proximity to Purchena and Olula del Río provides opportunities to explore local culture and amenities. The mountain passes along the route are also points of interest for those seeking to experience Andalusia's natural environment. An interactive map of the Carretera de Tabernas a Olula del Río por Macael is provided below to assist with navigation and planning.