Calar Alto Ride — gravel Sierro, Spain
Spain

Calar Alto Ride

Key facts

Date:
13 jun
Type:
Ultra / Bikepacking
Sierro · Andalucía · Spain
Distances:
158 km
Elevation:
2.990 m
Price:
Consultar web

About

The Calar Alto Ride sends riders across 158 km and 2,990 metres of climbing through the high plateau of Almeria province, ascending from Sierro towards one of southern Europe's most important astronomical observatories. The stark, sparsely populated sierra de los Filabres landscape, with its ochre dirt tracks and vast panoramas over Almeria, makes this as visually striking as it is physically demanding. Formatted as a single-day ultra for cyclists experienced in long self-supported rides, it presents a specific physiological challenge that Push Rider addresses through the race-specific nutrition pillar of Training 360 and weekly coach review of dry-heat tolerance protocols and high-plateau hydration strategy, critical on a route with limited shade and consistent exposure. A distinctive event for those seeking something genuinely off the beaten path.

Frequently asked questions

When does the Calar Alto Ride 2026 take place?

The Calar Alto Ride 2026 takes place on 13 June.

What is the distance and elevation gain?

The event covers 158 km with 2,990 metres of accumulated elevation gain.

Where is the start?

The start is in Sierro, in the province of Almería.

What type of event is it?

It is a one-day Ultra and Bikepacking event.

How to prepare for the Calar Alto Ride with PUSH TRAINING 360?

With 158 km and 2,990 m of elevation in the Almería area, the Calar Alto Ride demands endurance and the ability to handle heat and semi-arid terrain. The 12-week PUSH TRAINING 360 plan with weekly review includes 4 phases: aerobic base, threshold construction focusing on long climbs, specificity loading with long rides in similar temperature and terrain conditions, and a pre-event taper. The 3-phase nutrition approach covers glycogen loading beforehand, continuous hydration and energy intake during the expected long hours on the bike, and protein recovery afterwards. Race strategy for this profile must include active management of body temperature and fluid consumption alongside pacing control.

Want us to coach you?

Pick your race and we build the plan: training, nutrition and mindset in a 12-week program with that event as the goal. Limited spots per edition.

Apply to the program