Colombia is a fast growing destination for road cyclists. Colombia produces some of the world’s best climbers in the pro...
Colombia is a fast growing destination for road cyclists. Colombia produces some of the world’s best climbers in the pro peleton. I went to Colombia to get a taste of the riding in Medellín (& beyond). The result? I am obessed and want to return!
It’s important that you are open to climbing and have a descent level of fitness. I rode from Llanogrande, a town at 2,000 m outside of Medellín. Take time to acclimatize before you start riding if you dwell at sea level like me. It’s also important that you’re reasonably comfortable in traffic. Whilst the Colombian population are obsessed with cycling and drivers always take care when passing cyclists on the road, there are some sections of iconic rides around Medellín which are on busy roads.
I was also lucky enough to travel to the Suroueste, a region in Antioquia south of Medellín. It’s less populated, the roads are quieter and it’s only at 300 m. The climate is hot and humid and it has a completely different feel to riding out of Llanogrande. There are so many amazing climbing options – I rode up to Concordia and went to visit a coffee producer. For me mixing amazing riding with getting the chance to meet some locals is just the best!
Here’s a short video giving a taste of what the riding’s like:
Check out our Colombia tours and get in touch if you’re feeling inspired!
