Anyone who says there are no serious MTB routes in León probably hasn’t set foot in Zona Alfa. This natural space, recovered and designed specifically for mountain bike lovers, has become a benchmark in northern Spain. And best of all: it still retains that authentic air, away from the crowded routes.
If you’re serious about MTB—the real deal, with tough climbs, technical descents, flow, roots, and landscapes that leave you speechless—jot down this name: Zona Alfa MTB.
Where is Zona Alfa?
The Zona Alfa is located in La Pola de Gordón and La Robla, two small villages in the north of the province of León. Surrounded by valleys, beech forests, and old mining roads, this environment combines wild nature with industrial history. It is the perfect terrain for mountain biking.
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GPS location: La Pola de Gordón (León, Castile and León)
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Approximate Altitude: between 950 and 1,300 meters
What Does the Route Offer?
Zona Alfa is not just one route. It is a set of signposted and conditioned trails for MTB, with different levels of difficulty and technical profiles. They are designed by and for riders. There is no improvisation here: every curve, every bank, and every descent is designed to offer an intense and safe experience.
Types of Routes You Will Find:
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Technical trail: areas with roots, loose stones, and closed tracks
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Flow trail: fast descents with well-marked curves, banked turns, and jump areas
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Closed forest: passes between beech and oak forests, especially beautiful in autumn
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Fast tracks: ideal sections for linking and maintaining pace
The entire system is designed in loops, which allows you to adapt the route to your physical and technical level.
What Level Do You Need?
In Zona Alfa there are routes for all levels, but it is a natural and technical environment, not an artificial bike park. It is ideal for cyclists of medium or high level who are looking for a complete experience: climbing, descending, managing effort, and enjoying the terrain.
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Beginners: can enjoy the most accessible sections, with wide tracks and gentle slopes
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Medium level: options for circuits of 15 to 25 km, with flow sections and technical descents
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Advanced: can combine long climbs with demanding trails and powerful descents
What Do I Need to Ride in Zona Alfa?
Zona Alfa is not a route marked like a Vía Verde. Here you are in the mountains, so it is advisable to be prepared. This is the minimum recommended:
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Mountain bike in good condition (preferably full suspension)
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Helmets and protections
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Basic tools and spare tube
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GPS or app with the track downloaded (check the official website)
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Water and some energy food
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Respect for the environment: you are in an area of high ecological value
Why is it a Special Route?
Unlike other destinations, Zona Alfa is born from the local commitment to sport and the environment. The trails have been recovered by volunteers, associations, and residents of the area. Every meter has been cleaned and signposted with care, respecting the natural environment as much as possible.
In addition, the route is integrated into an area rich in mining history. While you pedal, you will see remains of old facilities, abandoned mines, towns with history, and lush vegetation that has taken over the landscape. A unique combination of sport, landscape, and history.
How to Plan your Visit?
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Best time: spring, summer, and autumn. In winter there may be snow or excessive mud
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Parking: in Pola de Gordón or La Robla
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Nearby points of interest: Hoces de Vegacervera Gorge, Ciñera Beech Forest, La Robla Viewpoint
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Where to stay: Hotel Bicis y Vacas en la Pola de Gordón
Where to Find more Information?
All the updated information about tracks, trail maintenance, notices, and events can be found on the official website of the project:
You can also follow them on social networks to see videos, maps, updates, and events.
In Summary
Zona Alfa is not just an MTB route. It is a community project, a network of trails that combines sport, respect for nature, and passion for mountain biking. A paradise for those looking for routes that challenge the legs… and enchant the eyes.
If you are looking for a place to live an authentic, technical mountain bike experience with local essence, this is your next destination.
And if you want to rest (and eat well) after riding, we are waiting for you at Bicis y Vacas: our hotel and restaurant in La Pola de Gordón, designed for cyclists, mountain lovers, and travelers looking for something different.