Home to the Montes de Málaga, the Costa del Sol and the almightly Sierra Nevada, Andalucia has a stunning variety of landscapes and beautiful towns and cities just waiting to be explored. Don’t miss cultural gems such as the Alhambra in Granada, flamenco in Seville and el Punte Nuevo in Ronda. The warm Mediterranean climate makes this region the ideal location for year-round cycling.
El Puerto del Leon is a 16.2-km climb from the city of Malaga through the nearby natural park of Los Montes de Málaga. The climb starts by winding upwards through the outskirts of the city. Before too long, the undulating landscape is all that surrounds the this quiet road, which is in great condition. Depending on speeds and energy levels, the climb takes around one hour. There are several road-side restaurants on the way up for a quick drink if needed, and also one at the summit. Riding late afternoon is highly recommended as the views across the surrounding countryside are even more spectacular!
This traditional form of song and dance is most commonly associated with the gyspies of southern Spain. Today, this romantic music has been popularised, and can be seen in ‘tablaos’ (small flamenco theatres) across the country. Some of the most authentic tablaos are found in Seville, Granada, Cordoba, Malaga and Cadiz, which are or have been home to some of the most celebrated legengs in flamenco history, such as Camerón de la Isla, Paco de Lucía, Lola Flores, La Húngara, and more. In summer, the streets are alive with flamenco buskers, who offer an incredible display of talent.
The Carretera de la Cabra is a stunning road that winds its way through the Andalucian countryside. Flanked by green fields, forest and rocky mountainside, the road offers views of the undulating landscape the blankets the coastal region of Granada. Rising in altitude from the seaside town of Almuñecar, the climb peaks at 1348 m above seal level, before starting to descend towards the city of Granada.
El Puerto del Sol is a challenging climb located just to the north of Velez-Málaga. The 19-km ascent averages at 6.4%, with highs of 12% and 10% at some points. The road climbs through the hills surrounding the city of Malaga, passing through the pretty villages of Periana and Colmenar. Enjoy the gentle descent down to the city of Malaga and cool off with a drink beside the sea!
The Pico del Veleta in the stunning Sierra Nevada mountains is the fourth highest peak in Spain, and a 43-km climb to the top. There is an average gradient of 6.5%, and it is important to ride in summer, as snow can make the road inaccessible in winter and early spring.
The Alhambra is one of the best preserved examples of Islamic architecture in Europe. The site as it stands today bears the scars of the invasions and cultural milieu that make Granada so unique, complete with magnificent palaces, tree-lined walkways and flowing streams. Some of the Alhambra’s highlights include the Courtyard of the Lions, the Generalife gardens and the Palace Of Charles V.
Laura is a guide, professional cycling coach and endurance cyclist who has completed some of the coolest ultradistance gravel events (which she absolutely loved!). Laura loves guiding as she really enjoys empowering people to ride their bikes and discover new places, help their cycling adventures come true, and share unforgettable moments together.
Rafa is from Barcelona and has made the city of Granada his home. Alongside guiding Rafa works as a cycling coach. He rides both road and gravel and has probably climbed the Pico de Veleta more times than anyone else!
Fernando lives in the Montes de Málaga! He’s spent a career travelling extensively and working with the UN. A Malagueñan, Fernando rides MTB and road and continues to love to travel.
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