Here are the top 20 cycling destinations to consider on your next trip:
1. Sierra Nevada
Sierra Nevada is a mountain range in the province of Granada known for its fantastic riding prospects. Its stunning peaks, notably Mulhacén, the highest point in mainland Spain, draw road riders and mountain bikers. The region provides a range of courses, ranging from difficult climbs that challenge stamina to spectacular downhill descents.
- Distance: 135 km.
- Route: Granada to Pico Veleta
- Activities: You can explore activities such as mountain climbing and exploring Alhambra.
- Best Time: May to October.
2. Costa Almeria
Costa Almeria, located on Spain's southwestern coast, provides gorgeous surroundings and different cycling routes. Cyclists may explore the breathtaking coastline, which features golden beaches and crystal-clear oceans.This region has a Mediterranean climate with pleasant winters that adds to the thrill of cyclists.
- Distance: 150 km.
- Route: Almeria to Mojácar
- Activities: Visit Cabo de Gata Natural Park and enjoy the cool beaches of Mojácar.
- Best Time: June to September
3. Calpe, Costa Blanca
One of the most popular coastal destinations for cycling in Spain is Calpe on the Costa Blanca. The renowned Rock of Ifach provides a wonderful background for cycling experiences in this charming town.
Cyclists may take gorgeous seaside routes, meandering roads through vineyards and almond trees.The period between June-August is ideal for cyclists who love to soak in the warmth of the bright sun.
- Distance: 100 km
- Route: Calpe to Coll de Rates
- Activities: You can indulge in activities such as exploring the old town, relaxing on spotless beaches and climbing the iconic Coll de Rates.
- Best Time: June to August
4. Girona, Costa Brava
Girona, on the Costa Brava, is a well-known cycling destination that has captivated both professional and recreational cyclists. The picturesque mediaeval alleyways, ancient architecture, and vibrant cycling culture of the city make it a veritable cycling paradise.Besides, the mild temperatures of Girona enhance the cycling experience.
- Distance: 50 km.
- Route: Giron to Sant Hilari
- Activities: You can visit the Cathedral of Girona, explore the old town of Girona and enjoy the clear beach waters of Costa Brava.
- Best Time: June to August.
5. Costa Daurada
Costa Daurada, in Catalonia, is a cycling destination that blends breathtaking coastline scenery with cultural and historical riches.Passionate cyclists ride their bikes along the gorgeous coastline, past golden beaches and picturesque fishing villages.
- Distance: 10 km.
- Route: Cambrils to Tarragona.
- Activities: Discover Roman ruins and visit PortAventura World theme park.
- Best Time: June to August.
6. San Sebastian
A city known for its scenic beauty and gastronomical delights, the cycling tour of Spain remains incomplete without a visit to San Sebastian in Basque Country. The city has a network of trails allowing cyclists to explore the beaches and its neighbouring areas.
- Distance: 64 km.
- Route: San Sebastian to Getaria.
- Activities: Discover the local cuisine of San Sebastian, along with enjoying the beaches and exploring the fishing villages of Getaria.
- Best Time: July to September.
7. Mallorca
Mallorca, the largest Balearic island, is a cycling paradise known for its varied scenery and good road riding chances. The island has a well-developed network of cycling routes, ranging from easy beach roads to difficult mountain climbs.
Mallorca's diversified geography includes coastal cliffs, rolling countryside, and the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Serra de Tramuntana mountain range.
- Distance: 312 km.
- Route: Andratx to Pollensa along Mallorca’s cycling road.
- Activities: Enjoy the picturesque village of Valldemossa and Dela and you can also visit Cap de Formentor during your cycle trip in Mallorca.
- Best Time: All year, except for July and August.
8. Tenerife
Tenerife is Spain's largest territory of the Canary Islands and is a significant part of Spain's cycling tour, giving the riders a one-of-a-kind experience. The region is surrounded by volcanic landscapes, along with lush forests and coastal roads for cyclists to enjoy at every turn.
- Distance: It varies as per the route you select.
- Route: Some key routes availed by cyclists are:
- Puerto de la Cruz - Punta del Hidalgo : 102.6 km.
- Puerto de la Cruz – Masca – La Orotava : 116.4 km.
- Puerto de la Cruz – Teide national Park – Santiago del Teide : 134.4 km.
- Puerto de la Cruz – Puerto de la Cruz (around the island) : 224.5 km.
- Activities: You can climb Mount Teide, Spain's highest peak, and relax on the beaches of Playa de las Américas and visit Masca Gorge.
- Best Time: All year round.
9. Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria, in the Canary Islands, is known for its rough terrain, dramatic landscapes and the perfect weather to cycle around. This cycling trail is home to scenic beauties such as coastal riffs, high mountains and vast valleys. It also hosts a key cycling event in the country - "The Gran Canaria Bike Week ''.
- Distance: Varies as per the route you select.
- Route: Some key routes the cyclists can select are:
- Desde Maspalomas a Ayagaures – vuelta al Parque Natural de Pilancones – Gran Canaria : 28.64 km.
- Alto de Fataga – San Bartolomé de Tirajana loop from Cruce de Arinaga : 18.18 km.
- Café con buenas vistas – Carretera de la Costa loop from Taurito : 19.15 km.
- Veneguera, Barranco de Mogán y Roque Nublo – vuelta por la Reserva Natural Integral de Inagua – Gran Canaria : 92.38 km.
- Activities: Discover the Maspalomas Dunes, the villages of Arucas and Terror and the old town of Las Palmas.
- Best Time: All year round.
10. Mallorca - Cap de Formentor lighthouse
Cap de Formentor, located on Mallorca's northern point, is a must-see for bikers. With its twisting roads and stunning coastline vistas, the journey to the lighthouse is both demanding and rewarding. Cyclists may take in the scenery along the journey, which includes stunning cliffs, crystal-clear waterways, and lovely beaches.
- Distance: 40 km.
- Route: Port de Pollença to Cap de Formentor
- Activities: Enjoy panoramic views from the lighthouse and visit the enchanting village of Port de Pollença.
- Best Time: April to December.
11. Mountain biking in Basque Country
Cycling in Spain is incomplete without going mountain biking in Basque Country. The area is set in deep forests, difficult paths and rocky mountains, allowing cyclists to test their skill level.
The trail comprises a vast network of man-made and natural regions for cycling junkies to enjoy an exhilarating ride. You can also enjoy the thrill of off-road cycling while tackling steep descents.
- Distance: 215 km.
- Route: La Grande Traversée du Pays Basque par MTB (en VTT).
- Activities: You can enjoy several activities such as discovering the cities of San Sebastian and Bilbao, photography and having a taste of the region's ethnic culture.
- Best Time: All year round.
12. Galicia - Climb to Cabeza de Manzaneda
With its rich green landscapes and craggy mountains, Galicia in northwest Spain provides a wonderful environment for bikers. The ascent to Cabeza de Manzaneda, a high peak in the area, is part of a famous cycling challenge. The climb itself is a challenging rise that rewards bikers with a sense of accomplishment and breathtaking views at the peak.
- Distance: 60 km.
- Route: Ourense to Cabeza de Manzaneda
- Activities: Indulge in activities such as exploring the city of Ourense and Sil River Canyon.
- Best Time: May to October.
13. Malaga - Riculator Trail
Malaga, located on the Costa del Sol, has an exciting track for mountain bikers: the Riculator track. This trail is a combination of natural beauty with technical difficulties, taking cyclists through harsh terrain, rocky trails, and steep descents. The Riculator Trail is popular among skilled mountain bikers due to its exhilarating sections that test riders' abilities and stamina.
- Distance: 30 km.
- Route: Malaga to Benalmadena
- Activities: You can visit the Alcazaba fortress and the stunning city of Malaga or relax on the beaches of Costa del Sol.
- Best Time: March to June.
14. Sierra de Hoyo de Manzanares (Madrid) - Rompepiernas Trail
The Sierra de Hoyo de Manzanares, on the outskirts of Madrid, is a cycling paradise for those looking for difficult mountain trails. The Rompepiernas Trail, aptly titled "Leg Breaker," offers a strenuous ride through the Sierra's steep terrain. Cyclists will face steep climbs, difficult descents, and small pathways that will put their abilities and fitness to the test.
- Distance: 40 km.
- Route: Hoyo de Manzanares to Cerceda
- Activities: Explore the city of Madrid and taste exquisite Spanish cuisine along with visiting historic sites and museums around the area.
- Best Time: August to October.
15. Via Verde de Ojos Negros
Cycle touring in Spain will remain incomplete if you do not ride the one-of-a-kind path of Via Verde de Ojos Negros in the Teruel region. A leisurely ride around beautiful landscapes, tunnels and cities with car-free and well-maintained roads is a paradise for cycle enthusiasts.
Also, this region has a mix of gradual and flat climbs, making it suitable for all expert riders.
- Distance: 160 km.
- Route: Teruel to Sagunto.
- Activities: You can visit Sagunto's ancient castle to enrich yourself with the region's history.
- Best Time: Throughout the year but most preferred during Spring and Autumn.
16. Trans Andalus
The Trans Andalus is a well-known long-distance cycling route that runs the length of Andalusia. It spans around 2,000 km and highlights southern Spain's various landscapes and rich cultural history. The route passes through beautiful coastal areas, scenic villages, historic cities, and difficult mountain crossings.
- Distance: Approximately 2000 km.
- Route: Circular route throughout Andalusia
- Activities: Visit Granada's renowned Alhambra, the mediaeval cities of Seville and Cordova, and enjoy Andalusian cuisine.
- Best Time: April to May and September to October.
17. Trans Cantabrica
The Trans Cantabrica is a long-distance cycling route that runs through Green Spain, Spain's northernmost area. This difficult route encompasses roughly 1,200 miles, stretching from the coast of the Bay of Biscay to the Cantabrian Mountains.
Cyclists taking on the Trans Cantabrica will be rewarded with a stunning combination of coastal splendour, lush forests, beautiful communities, and mountainous vistas.
- Distance: Approximately 1000 km.
- Route: Circular route through northern Spain.
- Activities: Visit the lovely communities of Cangas de Onís and Santillana del Mar, as well as the Picos de Europa National Park.
- Best Time: Late spring to early autumn.
18. Lanzarote Cycling Circuit
The cycling tour of Spain is incomplete without going on another beautiful trail on the Canary Islands, called Lanzarote. It is a unique cycling circuit allowing cyclists to experience the coastal and volcanic vistas of the island.
The visitors have to take the route through steep cliffs, vineyards and lava fields. A key highlight of this cycling circuit is the Timanfaya National Park, a natural wonder of the region.
- Distance: 205 km.
- Route: Circular route around Lanzarote.
- Activities: You can visit Jameos del Agua cave and Lanzarote's architectural wonders created by Cesar Manrique.
- Best Time: All year round.
19. Parque Natural de Monfragüe
The Parque Natural de Monfragüe, in the province of Cáceres, is a refuge for both nature enthusiasts and cyclists. This natural park is well-known for its different habitats, which include Mediterranean woods, cliffs, and rivers.
Cyclists may enjoy the serene nature while exploring the park's network of paths and spotting numerous bird species such as vultures and eagles.
- Distance: Varies as per route.
- Route: Some major routes cyclists can follow are:
- Torrejón el Rubio desde el río Tejo – circular por Parque Nacional de Monfragüe : 40.23 km.
- Staustufe am Tietar – Casa Ace concepcion loop from Monfragüe : 59.55 km.
- Staustufe am Tietar loop from Monfragüe : 44.9 km.
- Villarreal de San Carlos – MAJALÓN loop from Monfragüe : 47.15 km.
- Activities: The best activities you can take part in are spotting rare birds, enjoying hiking trails in the park and visiting Castillo de Monfragüe.
- Best Time: March to October.
20. Cami de Cavalls
On the island of Menorca is a beautiful trail circuit covering the entire coastline, known as Cami de Cavalls. If you are planning to go cycling in Spain, you must ride this 14th-century old trail to explore the region's cultural legacy. Cycling enthusiasts will enjoy the secret coves, exquisite rural landscapes, beaches and steep cliffs during their ride here.
- Distance: 185 km.
- Route: Circular route around Menorca
- Activities: Enjoy the prehistoric sites and towns of Mahon and Ciutadella.
- Best Time: April to October.
