Puerto de las Carretas Mountain Pass Road in Sierra de las Tonadas Spain

The road is situated in the southern region of Spain, specifically in Andalusia. It traverses the Sierra de las Tonadas mountain range, a notable natural feature in the area. The route begins near the town of Posadas and extends through several settlements including Carretera de Villaviciosa, Carretera de Posadas, Calle Nueva, Calle Marrubial, and Carretera de Córdoba. The road also runs adjacent to the Embalse de Puente Nuevo, a large reservoir covering approximately 18.51 square kilometers. The elevation along the road varies from 92 meters (302 feet) at its lowest point to 739 meters (2,424 feet) at the Puerto de las Carretas mountain pass, which is the highest point on this route. An interactive map showing the road can be found at the end of this article.

The road extends for approximately 60 kilometers (37.4 miles) and features an asphalt surface of high quality, rated 4.5 out of 5. It is moderately twisty, offering a riding experience that balances curves with stretches of more straightforward riding. The road width varies, with the majority (about 71%) being wide enough to comfortably accommodate two lanes, while around 42% of the road consists of two lanes and another 42% is single lane. Narrow sections are minimal, comprising about 3% of the route. The road passes through inhabited areas only briefly, about 3.4% of its length, allowing for a mostly uninterrupted ride through natural surroundings. The route’s elevation gain culminates at the Puerto de las Carretas mountain pass, which stands at 740 meters (2,428 feet), providing riders with a notable mountain pass experience.

The Puerto de las Carretas mountain pass is the defining feature of this road. It offers a significant elevation change and is part of the Sierra de las Tonadas mountain range. The road’s proximity to the Embalse de Puente Nuevo reservoir adds a water element to the landscape, with the road running alongside the lake for a portion of its length. This combination of mountainous terrain and lakeside views provides a diverse environment for motorcyclists. The Sierra de las Tonadas is a less frequented mountain range, which may appeal to riders looking for less crowded routes.

The road surface is predominantly asphalt and in very good condition, suitable for a wide range of motorcycles. The moderate curviness and varying road widths require attentive riding but do not present extreme technical challenges. The road is open year-round, although riders should verify local conditions during winter months as mountain passes can be subject to seasonal closures or weather-related restrictions. There are no tolls or entrance fees associated with this road, but toll policies can change, so checking official Spanish road information sources is recommended. The nearest town, Posadas, provides access to services and amenities before starting the ride.