To reach Pozoblanco (Córdoba), the starting point of Balutia, you have several options. You can come by car, by public transport with different connection options — or, of course, the best way of all: by bike.
For those who have the time and want to reach the start line in the most eco-friendly way — and warm up their legs on the way — we’ve prepared a few suggested tracks to ride to Pozoblanco, the starting point of Balutia.
Remember that you must be in Pozoblanco the day before the start for accreditation and the rider briefing.
These tracks have been designed following two main ideas:
Feel free to adapt any of them to your needs.
Please note: All routes follow public roads, and you must comply with traffic regulations at all times according to local authorities.
A route climbing along the slopes of Sierra Morena, through winding mid-mountain roads and Mediterranean forest landscapes. Definitely a perfect warm-up for Balutia!
A route starting from the capital of the Costa del Sol, following secondary roads and passing through charming cities such as Antequera and Córdoba.
If you start from Seville, this track runs along the foothills of Sierra Morena, following the Guadalquivir River upstream to Córdoba, and then climbs over Sierra Morena to reach Pozoblanco.
This is the best way to reach Pozoblanco from the Renfe train station in Los Pedroches. * Avoid the road connecting Villanueva de Córdoba and Pozoblanco — it is not safe.
Free parking is available in the start area — check the rider dossier for details.
There are several ways to reach Pozoblanco using public transport. Below you’ll find a few useful notes and options to keep in mind.
The nearest airports are Seville, Málaga, and Madrid. From any of them, you can continue your journey by train or bus to Córdoba or directly to Pozoblanco.
You have two main options to arrive by train:
1. High-Speed Train (AVE) – Córdoba Station
Direct connections with Madrid, Seville, and Málaga.
Most high-speed trains arrive at Córdoba. This station usually makes it easier to find space for your bike. You’ll need to add the bike option when purchasing your ticket. It’s generally free of charge.
You’ll need to remove your front wheel, turn the handlebar parallel to the frame, and place the bike inside a cover, making sure its total length does not exceed 140 cm.
Check Renfe’s bike policy here.
2. High-Speed Train (AVE) – Los Pedroches / Villanueva de Córdoba Station
This station also connects with Madrid, Seville, and Málaga. It’s located in the middle of the dehesa, about 8 km from Villanueva de Córdoba and 32 km from Pozoblanco.
There’s no bus connection, so we recommend booking a taxi in advance.
ATTENTION: unfortunately, RENFE is currently making it difficult to add the bike option to tickets to Villanueva de Córdoba. It’s usually easier if the train is direct or if you buy your ticket at the station.
Renfe information phone number: 912 320 320
* It’s safer to travel to Córdoba city and then take the bus to Pozoblanco. (you can find bus information further below)
3. Medium-Distance Train from Seville – to Córdoba
A more affordable and flexible option to travel with your bike unpacked (you’ll need to notify them), or in a bike cover with the front wheel removed. Remember to include the “bike” option when purchasing your ticket.
From Córdoba city, you can continue your journey by bus to Pozoblanco (see below).
From Córdoba city, there are daily buses operated by Autocares San Sebastián.
Check the Córdoba–Pozoblanco timetable (PDF) for schedules (PDF)