Driving the GU-194 road, the Spanish ‘Great Wall of China’

GU-194 is the name of a stunning road located in the province of Guadalajara, in Castile-La Mancha, an autonomous community of Spain.

GU-194 road

Where is the Spanish ‘Great Wall of China’?

Tucked away in the central part of the country, within the Sierra de Ayllón mountains of the Celtiberian Range (also called South Lapland or Spanish Lapland), the road is locally known as La Muralla China española (the Spanish Great Wall of China).

Is the Spanish ‘Great Wall of China’ paved?

The road is paved, with a few sections of streaked concrete. It crosses the river Jaramillo through a bridge on the lowest section of the road, known as Hoz del río Jaramilla. Nicknamed Puente de la Muralla China (Great Wall of China bridge), it’s 50.82 m (166.73 ft) long.

Is the Spanish ‘Great Wall of China’ road difficult?

The drive is not for the beginners, with bumpy parts and loose gravel. The drive is not easy, with narrow parts (totally impassable for 2 cars at the same time) and 10 hairpin turns. The area is very remote, due to its lower population.

How long is the GU-194 road, the Spanish ‘Great Wall of China’?

The road is 14.5km (9.0 miles) long running west-east from Corralejo to El Espinar. Don’t use the road in winter or rainy conditions.

How long does it take to drive the GU-194 road, the Spanish ‘Great Wall of China’?

To drive the road without stopping will take most people between 35 and 45 minutes. The drive is very steep, hitting an 18% of maximum gradient through some of the ramps. Caution is required because the road is prone to rock slides.
Road suggested by: Markus Janssen