Carretera de Valdezcaray Mountain Pass Road in La Rioja Spain

Carretera de Valdezcaray is situated in the autonomous community of La Rioja in northern Spain. The road traverses a mountainous area characterized by moderate elevation changes and natural landscapes typical of this region. The route passes through the Collado Eraviña mountain pass, which is a key geographic feature of the road. The road's bounding coordinates extend approximately from longitude -3.021 to -2.961 and latitude 42.256 to 42.310, placing it within a rural and mountainous setting. An interactive map showing the road can be found at the end of this article.

The Carretera de Valdezcaray is an asphalt road with a surface quality rated at 4.3 out of 5, indicating a generally smooth and well-maintained pavement suitable for motorcycles. The road length is approximately 13.7 kilometers (8.5 miles), providing a moderate ride duration. It features two lanes for the majority of its length (about 98%), with the road width being predominantly wide (about 86%) and some sections of middle width (about 13%). The road is moderately twisty, with a curviness rating of 1.21 on a scale where 3 is extremely curvy, offering a balanced riding challenge without excessive sharp turns.

The route passes through very limited inhabited areas (approximately 0.9%), allowing riders to experience a relatively uninterrupted natural environment. Elevation varies significantly along the road, starting at 868 m (2,848 ft) and reaching up to 1,570 m (5,151 ft), with the Collado Eraviña pass at 1,198 m (3,931 ft) serving as a notable high point.

The Collado Eraviña mountain pass is the primary mountain pass along the Carretera de Valdezcaray. At an elevation of 1,198 m (3,931 ft), it provides a significant altitude gain and is a key feature for riders interested in mountain pass roads. The surrounding area is known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking and nature observation. The road leads towards the Valdezcaray ski resort area, which is a popular destination in the region, especially during winter months.

Currently, there are no known permanent road closures affecting motorcycles on Carretera de Valdezcaray. However, due to its mountainous location and proximity to a ski resort, the road may be subject to seasonal closures or restrictions during winter months because of snow and ice. Riders should verify local conditions before planning a trip.

There are no tolls or entrance fees associated with this road. Toll conditions may change in the future, so it is advisable to consult official Spanish road authorities for the latest information. More details about road tolls and fees in Spain can be found on the Dirección General de Tráfico website.

For riders interested in exploring Carretera de Valdezcaray, it is recommended to prepare for variable weather conditions due to the elevation changes. The road's asphalt surface and wide lanes make it suitable for a comfortable ride, while the moderate curviness provides an engaging experience without extreme technical challenges.

Further information about the Valdezcaray area and its attractions can be found on the Valdezcaray Wikipedia page. Additionally, the nearby La Rioja region is renowned for its wine production and cultural heritage, offering opportunities for extended travel beyond the mountain pass road.