Linking the Lozoya valley to the northern slope of the Sierra de Guadarrama, the Puerto de la Morcuera is among the most popular climbs for Madrid cyclists, less than an hour’s drive from the capital.
An accessible, well-exposed climb
From Rascafría, it’s 13.1 km for 659 m of elevation gain, averaging 5% with no genuinely hard section. The pass tops out at 1,796 m, with open views over the Lozoya valley.
A classic Madrid weekend ride
The Morcuera pairs easily with the neighbouring Puerto de Cotos and Puerto de Navacerrada passes to form loops that are heavily used by Madrid cycling clubs, especially on weekends when traffic stays light.
Getting the ride right
The steady gradient makes it possible to hold a strong pace throughout the climb: a compact chainset is more than enough, even for cyclists with modest fitness.
When to go
April to November: the road is generally rideable most of the year, but can be affected by snow after heavy winter falls at altitude.
Good to know
Rascafría, the starting town in the Lozoya valley, is home to the El Paular monastery and makes a pleasant base for exploring the whole of the Sierra de Guadarrama by bike.
