Old mountain paths and trails in the Alt Urgell and Cerdanya regions will come alive on 15 and 16 May 2027 with the inaugural edition of La Ruta de la Lletera. Organised by the Sports Service of the Ayuntamiento de La Seu d'Urgell and Pirineu Outdoor, with academic support from INEFC Pirineus, this new initiative aims to establish itself as a premier cycling event in the Pyrenees.
The event pays tribute to the memory of the former milk truck, known as La Lletera, which for decades traversed the winding roads of the region to collect milk from local farmers. Under the motto “Pedal the Cadí from 10 viewpoints”, the route connects mountain passes surrounding the Cadí mountain range, offering participants stunning views and a journey through the area's history and identity.
Non-competitive spirit and personal challenge
Designed as a non-competitive cycling challenge, the event will not feature time classifications. Instead, it aims to provide a personal achievement experience and foster camaraderie in a beautiful natural setting.
Two participation options
To accommodate different fitness levels, the organisers have created two participation options, both starting from the Parque Olímpico del Segre and finishing at the Cathedral of La Seu d'Urgell:
- La Ruta de la Lletera (in two stages): This is the main option for the weekend. The first stage on Saturday, 15 May, will cover the southern passes (Vilanova de Banat, Ansovell, Cava, El Querforadat, and Estana) and return to La Seu d’Urgell, covering 139 km with an elevation gain of 3,018 m. The second stage on Sunday, 16 May, will take participants from La Seu to Martinet, returning via the northern passes (Lles, Aristot, Castellnou de Carcolze, and Estamariu) back to La Seu, covering 95 km with an elevation gain of 1,952 m.
- La Lletera Non-Stop (in one day): This option is for cyclists seeking a significant physical challenge. It involves completing the entire route and all nine mountain passes continuously on Saturday, 15 May, totalling 190 km and an accumulated elevation gain of 4,622 m.
Economic dynamism, tourism, and sustainability
Beyond its sporting aspect, La Ruta de la Lletera aims to serve as a strategic project for regional tourism and economic dynamism. The event seeks to promote the smaller villages in the valley, encouraging overnight stays and generating activity in local restaurants, shops, and cultural offerings in La Seu and its surroundings. Furthermore, the organisers intend for the route to remain active year-round as a permanent cycling itinerary.
Registrations now open
As of today, registrations are officially open. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, with adequate support and respect for the environment, participation is limited to 300 cyclists across both options.
