The stage, step by step
A demanding descent from Moclín
The first kilometres are not a gentle warm-up: between km 0.5 and 3.8, the route loses 249 m, with an average gradient of 7.7%. Take it slowly and watch the ground, as this section is more punishing because of its steepness than its distance.
The first climb back up
From km 3.8 to 7.3, you have to regain 165 m, with an average gradient of 4.7%. The scenery is now fully into the hills and olive groves of the Subbética; there is no obvious intermediate town where you can call the first half finished.
Changing pace in the middle of the stage
After another descent between km 7.3 and 11.3, the route climbs a further 68 m to km 12.5. Cafe Bar El Hogar is near this point, providing a useful place to stop if it is open and you need a rest.
Approaching Alcalá la Real
The route descends again between km 12.5 and 14.5, then begins a long climb to km 20.8, gaining 119 m. The final descent brings you into Alcalá la Real, where food, shopping and accommodation options are concentrated.
What to see on stage 3
Fortaleza de La Mota
The fortress stands at 1029 m and retains three lines of defence: the medina walls, the alcazaba and the alcázar. It was a frontier stronghold between Granada and Castile, making it an especially fitting visit after a stage through the same historic hills.
Iglesia Mayor Abacial
This is Alcalá la Real's principal church and forms part of the monumental complex of La Mota. Its location allows you to combine the visit with the fortress without adding an unnecessary detour at the end of the day.
Palacio Abacial
The 18th-century Neoclassical palace houses a museum and a music conservatory. It is a good way to round off your visit to Alcalá if you still have energy after the final kilometres.
The olive groves of the Subbética
Much of the route runs among hilly terrain and olive groves. The succession of descents and short climbs is precisely what sets this stage apart from the previous one, which concentrated almost all its effort in a single climb.
Where to sleep in Alcalá la Real
In Moclín, you can set off from Pósito de Moclín. In Alcalá la Real, you have Mirador Tierra de Frontera at the end of the stage. Do not count on a network of hostels between the two destinations: the day is long, so arrange your overnight stop in advance.
Where to eat and refuel
In Moclín, you can have something to eat at Bar la Plaza before setting off. The clearest intermediate stop is Cafe Bar El Hogar. Options become much more plentiful as you enter Alcalá la Real, with Kebap Kapadokia, Restaurante Torrepalma, Pizzería Sabores, Dos Soles, Caserío Vía Priego and Zacatín. Carry some food, as there is a long section between Moclín and Alcalá without a supporting settlement.
Practical tips for this stage
Do not underestimate the initial descent
The first descent loses 249 m over 3.3 km and reaches an average gradient of 7.7%. Walking poles and footwear with good grip can make a real difference, especially if the ground is wet.
Carry enough water
This is a mountain stage with long sections without any services. The reliable water point is Pilar de San José, almost at the destination; do not count on finding water before then.
Plan for a long day
It is 22.6 km, with 383 m of ascent and 454 m of descent. As well as the initial climb, there is still a further gain of 119 m between km 14.5 and 20.8.
Book in Alcalá la Real
Mirador Tierra de Frontera is the destination's main hostel option. After the descents and climbs on this stage, arriving without a bed booked could leave you looking for accommodation when you are already tired.
Frequently asked questions about stage 3
Which is the hardest section of the stage?
The initial descent between km 0.5 and 3.8 is the steepest section, losing 249 m at an average gradient of 7.7%. There is then another significant climb between km 3.8 and 7.3.
Is there anywhere to stop halfway?
Cafe Bar El Hogar is around km 12.2. Apart from that reference point, most services are concentrated in Moclín and Alcalá la Real.
How much elevation gain is there?
The stage gains 383 m and loses 454 m. The minimum altitude is 763 m and the maximum is 1012 m.
Can I buy food before the finish?
Yes. Near Alcalá la Real you have Mercadona, Masymas and Alimentacíon Mercedes, as well as several restaurants. It is better to carry something from Moclín because the middle section has few options.