Ourense Strade Termal 2026

The route

The Ourense Strade Termal takes you through the remote terrain around Lobios in the heart of Ourense, a region where gravel roads wind through landscapes shaped by water and stone. This is a long ride, 115 km of unpaved paths that demand respect and reward it with solitude.

The geography here is characteristic of inland Galicia, where rolling hills give way to deeper valleys. You'll move across terrain that mixes open country with dense woodland. The riding surface is gravel throughout, the kind of path that connects villages and farms rather than highways. This means your speed will be steady rather than explosive, and your focus will shift between maintaining traction on looser sections and reading the ground ahead for ruts or washouts.

Wind is a factor in exposed terrain. April conditions in this part of Spain mean you should expect variable wind from several directions across the ride. Watch for gusts when you cross open ridges or emerge from tree cover into wider valleys. The unprotected nature of gravel routes means wind hits you direct, with no shelter from roadside barriers. Start early to understand the morning wind pattern, as it often shifts through the day. If the wind swings during your ride, use tree-lined sections to recover rather than fighting it on exposed ground.

The length of 115 km is substantial for gravel riding. Pacing matters more than speed. The route follows authentic tracks rather than purpose-built gravel circuits, so surface quality will vary. Some sections will be packed and quick. Others will be looser, softer, slower. Budget your energy for this rhythm. Bring extra food and water because you will not see shops regularly on a route through rural country.

Your bike setup should reflect the distance and terrain. Wider tyres at lower pressures will give you better grip and comfort on variable gravel. The lack of dramatic elevation figures in the data suggests rolling country rather than mountains, but rolling hills over 115 km still accumulate effort. Gearing should be moderate, not raced-out. Your drivetrain will see grit, so clean it well before you come and accept that it will need attention afterward.

The thermal reference in the name points to the character of the region, though the riding itself is about exploring quiet country on two wheels. This is gravel riding in its traditional sense, on routes locals use rather than on engineered surfaces. Start on the official site at ourensestradetermal.com to register and gather the latest details on exact timing in April, as the precise date is still to be confirmed.

Variants and GPX

How to register

Registration, price and rules are on the official website of the organization. Official march website →

More information

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