The Millars Gran Fondo

Date

Sunday 10.03.2024

Distances

178 km

City

Vila-real

Country

Spain

Website Contact

The Millars Granfondo is a new Granfondo on the UCI Gran Fondo World Series calendar with a challenging and long race in the province of Castellon (Valencia) early in the season.

COURSE

The course is a long 178km round trip with start and finish in Vila-real at sea level but the course reaches the middle mountain range west of the city through the beautiful “Parc Natural Serra d’Espada” which is crossed in between km 25-50 and surrounded during the rest of the course with beautiful vistas.

The second half of the course is easier as riders return towards sea level to finish in front of the “Estadio de la Ceramica”, the famous football stadium of the Villarreal C.F. team, proud team in the Spanish “La Liga”, the highest football league in Spain.

PROFILE

After the start in the city center of Vila-real, the course quickly goes west towards the mountains with a first long moderate climb starting after 18km towards a first top after 34km. The 16km climb has an average gradient of 3.1% with parts up to 7%, followed by a short descent before entering a second steeper 5km climb of 5% average with peaks up to 9.2%.

The highest point of the course is reached at km72 after a 12km climb at 3% average from which the final 5km towards the top reach 5% average to an altitude of 900m.

In the second half at km 88, there is another challenging 4km climb at 7.2% followed by a final 4km climb after 108km at 5.6% average before going back down to the finish line with the last 66km who mainly goes in downhill or flat.

Total elevation for all riders is a challenging 2822m. Climbs are never very steep but can be long and the total distance of 178km makes this a hard course.

VILA-REAL

Nestled in the picturesque province of Castellón in the Valencian Community, Villarreal stands as a charming town that seamlessly blends history, culture, and natural beauty. With a rich tapestry of tourist attractions and a unique landscape, Villarreal has become a hidden gem awaiting exploration.

Villarreal, also known as Vila-real in Valencian, is a town that boasts a population of approximately 50,000 inhabitants. Despite its relatively modest size, the town’s warmth and hospitality are immediately apparent to visitors. The community’s strong sense of identity is reflected in its commitment to preserving cultural heritage and promoting a welcoming atmosphere.

Tourist attractions

Villarreal is a trove of historical and architectural wonders that captivate both locals and tourists alike. One of the town’s highlights is the Basílica de Sant Pasqual, a stunning church that stands as a testament to the town’s deep-rooted religious traditions. The church’s intricate facade and ornate interior make it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and architecture aficionados.

For those seeking a glimpse into the town’s past, a visit to the Museum of Ceramics and the Museum of Fine Arts is highly recommended. These institutions house a diverse collection of artifacts, showcasing Villarreal’s cultural evolution and its contribution to the regional artistic landscape.

Estadio de la Cerámica, home to Villarreal CF boasts a modern design with a distinctive ceramic-tiled façade. With a seating capacity of 23.500 , the stadium provides an electric atmosphere during matches, showcasing the team’s strong performance. Its sleek architecture and the potential to witness thrilling football moments make it a must-visit for sports enthusiasts.

Landscape

Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Castellón province, Villarreal enjoys a diverse landscape that appeals to nature enthusiasts. The town is situated in close proximity to the Sierra de Espadán Natural Park, offering hiking trails and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The serene landscapes of the park provide a peaceful retreat for those seeking to connect with nature.

In addition to the mountains, Villarreal is within reach of the stunning Mediterranean coastline. The nearby beaches offer a perfect escape for sun-seekers and water enthusiasts, with golden sands and crystal-clear waters inviting relaxation and recreation.