Roads of Albacete: 8 spectacular drives through the heart of Castilla-La Mancha
Located in the southeast of the Iberian Peninsula, the province of Albacete is a land of dramatic contrasts. While its center is dominated by vast plains, the southern mountains of the Sierra de Alcaraz and Sierra del Segura hide some of the most technical and scenic roads in Spain. This is a territory of deep gorges, river canyons, and limestone cliffs, perfect for those who seek the open road away from the crowds.
Exploring this region reveals a network of roads that snake through dense forests and follow the curves of the Mundo and Segura rivers. Here are eight essential routes for any driving enthusiast visiting Albacete.
| Albacete Driving Routes Overview | |
|---|---|
| Most Technical | AB-4006 (Liétor Hairpins) |
| Best Views | CM-3203 (Ayna Canyon) |
| Forest Experience | CM-3204 (Rio Mundo Source) |
| Riverside Drive | CM-3206 (Rio Tus Bridge) |
1. AB-4006: The Liétor Descent
Running for 13.2 km (8.20 miles) from the historic town of Liétor to the CM-3203 junction, this is a pure "driving" road. The track plunges down to cross the Rio Mundo through a series of tight hairpins and sharp curves. Much of the route is unguarded with sheer drops, hugging the shrub-covered slopes. It’s an exhilarating experience that requires total focus.
2. CM-3203: The Canyon of Ayna
This 12.9 km (8.01 miles) stretch is often called the "Swiss of La Mancha." Starting near the CM-3216 junction, the road passes through the spectacular village of Ayna, perched on the side of a canyon. Don't miss the Mirador del Diablo and Mirador del Infierno; these viewpoints are just meters from the asphalt and offer bird's-eye views of the vertical limestone walls.
3. CM-3216: The Alcaraz Connection
Spanning 24.7 km (15.34 miles), this route connects the CM-3203 with the AB-515 towards Alcaraz. It is a classic mountain road, fully paved and well-maintained, offering a perfect rhythm of flowing curves through the high plateaus of the province.
4. AB-515: The Peñascosa Track
This 17.1 km (10.62 miles) route comprises segments of the A-24 and A-4, leading into the heart of Peñascosa. It is a secluded drive, ideal for enjoying the silence and the vast landscapes of the Sierra de Alcaraz.
5. CM-412: The Southern Gateway
As one of the longer stretches in this list (47.6 km / 29.57 miles), the CM-412 runs from the N-322 junction to Fuente Higuera. It is a fundamental route for exploring the southern reaches of the province, offering a mix of open stretches and forested sections.
6. CM-3204: Route to the Rio Mundo Source
Short but intensely beautiful, this 7.5 km (4.66 miles) road provides access to one of Spain's most famous natural wonders: Los Chorros del Río Mundo. The road continues towards the border with Andalusia, winding through a dense, lush forest that feels more like northern Spain than the center of the peninsula.
7. AB-509: The Molinicos Forest Drive
Connecting Molinicos with the CM-3206, this 13.4 km (8.32 miles) drive is a "vista" road. While it isn't as technical as others, it is densely forested and offers stunning, peaceful views of the valley. It’s the perfect road to slow down and enjoy the scenery.
8. CM-3206: The Bridge over Rio Tus
Running for 14.0 km (8.69 miles) towards Yeste, this route is full of surprises. It features a spectacular bridge crossing the Rio Tus and a series of short tunnels carved directly into the hillside. It’s a great example of mountain engineering that follows the river's flow through the gorge.
Road suggested by: Mike and Carol New