GR-66 Sendero Calar del Mundo Motorcycle Route in Parque Natural de la Sierra de Cazorla

The GR-66 Sendero Calar del Mundo is situated in the Castilla-La Mancha region of Spain, within the province of Albacete. It passes through the Parque Natural de la Sierra de Cazorla, Segura y las Villas, one of Spain's largest protected natural parks known for its diverse flora and fauna. The road skirts the park's boundaries, providing access to its natural landscapes without penetrating deeply into the protected area. The route runs adjacent to the Río Guadalimar for approximately 14% of its length, a tributary of the Río Guadalquivir, adding to the natural appeal of the ride. The road ends near the village of Riópar, a small settlement that serves as a gateway to the surrounding mountainous terrain. An interactive map showing the road can be found at the end of this article.

The GR-66 Sendero Calar del Mundo extends for approximately 19.6 kilometers (12.2 miles) and is classified as a mountain pass road. It features a high-quality asphalt surface rated at 4.9 out of 5, ensuring a smooth ride for motorcyclists. The road is predominantly wide (about 96% of its length) with two lanes throughout, facilitating safe overtaking and comfortable riding. Curviness is moderate, rated just under 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.

The elevation varies from 730 meters (2,395 feet) at its lowest point to 1,144 meters (3,753 feet) at its highest, with the Puerto del Arenal mountain pass reaching 1,139 meters (3,737 feet). Speed limits along the route vary between 50 km/h (31 mph) and 70 km/h (44 mph), reflecting the road's mountain terrain and safety considerations. Approximately 25% of the road passes through inhabited areas, primarily near the village of Riópar, which provides opportunities for rest and refueling.

The route's proximity to the Parque Natural de la Sierra de Cazorla, Segura y las Villas offers riders the chance to experience one of Spain's most significant natural parks. The park is renowned for its extensive pine forests, rugged mountains, and diverse wildlife, including species such as the Spanish ibex and golden eagle. While the road only skirts the park, it provides access points for those interested in exploring the park's hiking trails and natural attractions.

The Río Guadalimar runs alongside the road for a portion of its length, contributing to the area's ecological richness. This river is a tributary of the Guadalquivir, one of Spain's major rivers, and supports a variety of aquatic and riparian habitats. Riders can enjoy views of the river valley and surrounding landscapes during their journey.

The GR-66 Sendero Calar del Mundo is fully paved and maintained, with no reported seasonal closures or restrictions specific to motorcycles. However, as a mountain pass road, weather conditions can affect riding safety, especially during winter months when snow or ice may be present at higher elevations. Riders should check local weather forecasts before planning their trip.

There are no tolls or entrance fees associated with this road, but toll conditions may change in the future. For up-to-date information on road tolls and fees in Spain, riders can consult the official Spanish road authority websites.

The nearest settlement at the end of the route is the village of Riópar, which offers basic amenities. Fuel stations and accommodations are limited along the route, so planning ahead is advisable. The road's moderate curviness and excellent surface quality make it suitable for a range of motorcycle types, from sport-touring to adventure bikes.

For more detailed information about the Parque Natural de la Sierra de Cazorla, Segura y las Villas, visit the park's Wikipedia page. Information about the Río Guadalimar can be found on its Wikipedia entry. The mountain pass Puerto del Arenal is a key feature of this route, offering elevation and terrain typical of the region.

An interactive map displaying the GR-66 Sendero Calar del Mundo route is provided below to assist riders in planning their journey.