Spain

Sierra Nevada and Granada

Guided Road Bike Tour

Grade

1
2
3
4
5

Duration

7 days

Prices from

$2,560 P.P.

SAVE ON 2025 EARLY SEASON ESCAPES

Book before 17 November 2024 to get $125 off your tour departing on 27/04/2025. Apply promo code FYR2025.

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This tour is one of our most popular road cycling holidays in Spain and it's easy to see why! It is a challenging ride for sure but we do get to explore Andalucia, Spain’s most diverse and culturally exotic region. Moorish architecture, flamenco clubs, tapas bars and golden beaches have been seducing travellers for many years and we're going to find out why on our bikes.
A great swathe of the south eastern quarter of the region is dominated by the imposing mountain range of the Sierra Nevada. The mountain roads within the sierra are perfect for road cycling and they make frequent appearances in the Vuelta a España. Drier and more rugged than the mountains of France and Italy but no less beautiful and by no means less challenging, the Sierra Nevada and Granada has all the key ingredients for a classic road cycling tour.
The tour begins in Lanjaron, a short transfer from Malaga, and we will spend the next couple of days exploring the Alpujarras as we make our way to Trevelez, the highest village in Spain. Moving on we’ll ride to Guadix via Puerto de la Ragua, a challenging Category 1 climb and a frequent feature of the Vuelta and the Ruta Ciclista del Sol.
Continuing around the Sierra we cycle through the Spanish ‘badlands’ and the dramatic pine clad Sierra de Huetor with grand views of the main peak and the challenges to come.
The final major challenge of the week follows as we take on the 30km climb to the Sierra Nevada Ski Station. The road over the Veleta Pass is only suitable for mountain bikes so when the road turns to dirt we’ll about turn and descend to the stunningly beautiful city of Granada to enjoy some of the best tapas in the world.
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Highlights

  • Checking out the white mountain villages of the Alpujarras
  • A night in a luxurious cave house in Guadix
  • The Sierra Nevada Challenge – riding to the roof of Spain
  • The classic Vuelta ride through the Sierra de Pandera
  • Tasty tapas and sunset sangrias
  • The descent to Granada and its amazing Alhambra Palace

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First ever cycling holiday and probably the best holiday I have ever taken and I have done a reasonable amount of travelling! All days were fabulous, different and unique. Favourite day probably was the climb up to Pico de Veleta for the effort involved!

Simon, UK

Itinerary

Day 1
Arrival: Malaga / Lanjaron
Non Riding Day

On arrival into Malaga airport you will be transferred to the spa town of Lanjaron, the starting point of our classic loop of the imposing Sierra Nevada mountain range.

Lanjaron, famed for the quality of its drinking water, is the gateway to the Alpujarras, a spectacular region bathed in bright, clear light on the southern slopes of the Sierra Nevada. Before the Spanish reclaimed their land the Moors left an impressive scattering of whitewashed villages across the mountainsides and above deep ravines almost identical to those found in the Atlas mountains of Morocco.

Tomorrow we start our incredible journey.

Day 2
Lanjaron to Cadiar
45 Miles / 72 Kms Approx.
Ascent: 1,840 Metres Approx.
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch
  • Ascent: 1,840 Metres Approx.

After breakfast we will head off on our bikes straight from the hotel door into the heart of the Alpujarra. With stunning vistas across the deep Guadalfeo valley we’ll pass through Orgiva, the capital of the area and begin our climbing into the High Alpujarra.

We’ll pass the stunning Poquiera Gorge and the traditional, picturesque villages of Pampaneira and Bubion, perfectly situated for a coffee break to contemplate your first experience of the simple local architecture and handicrafts produced in the area.

Winding our way on well surfaced roads we’ll pass over the Barranco del Sangre (Gully of Blood) where a last ditch attempt by the Moors of the Alpujarra was defeated in a bloody battle. Legend has it the blood of the Christian soldiers flowed up hill in order not to mix with the blood of the Moors.

There won’t be any blood, but maybe a little sweat, as we pedal high above the Trevelez river and onto the village of the same name. Trevelez is the highest village in Spain at 1,476m and is famous for its succulent hams that are cured in the thin, dry mountain air.

A fast descent into the village of Juviles will give us great views of the Sierra de Contraviesa and take us down through the Berchules gorge to Cadiar our resting place for the night. Local mountain fayre will be on the menu, not forgetting that succulent ham to be washed down with the house wine!

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Day 3
Cadiar to Benalua de Guadix
63 Miles / 102 Kms Approx.
Ascent: 2,085 Metres Approx.
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch
  • Ascent: 2,085 Metres Approx.

Today we will head further east along the Alpujarra as we gradually gain height. Snaking through the villages of Valor, Yegen and Laroles that cling to the mountainside, we are rewarded with glimpses of the higher snow capped peaks of the Sierra Nevada, culminating in mainland Spain’s highest, Mulhacen, at 3,482m. Looking east from our vantage point we can see all the way to the desert lands of Almeria.

From Laroles at 1,050m we start the true ascent up to the Puerto de la Ragua. At 2,038m this is a tough climb rated as Category 1 and often features in the Vuelta a Espana. We’ll be rewarded though with views south to the Mediterranean and north as far as the Sierras de Cazorla and Segura in the far north of Andalucia. It’s a great place for a re-fuelling stop and a famous Skedaddle picnic of the best local produce. After lunch a 1,000m twisting descent takes us into the northern side of the range past the castle topped town La Calahorra and onto Jerez del Marquesado, nestled at the bottom of the beautiful Barranco Alcazar. It’s a steady ride into the cathedral town of Guadix, our home for the evening. The town is well off the beaten track and is famous for its cave houses that are still occupied today. This will be our chance to live as troglodytes as we stay the night in a cave hotel, but don’t worry they are now luxuriously appointed. It’s an excellent way to spend the evening in a magnificent desert landscape against the backdrop of the enormous snow capped peaks of the Sierra Nevada.

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Day 4
Benalua de Guadix to Guejar Sierra
43 Miles / 69 Kms Approx.
Ascent: 1,380 Metres Approx.
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch
  • Ascent: 1,380 Metres Approx.

After a breakfast we leave our cave behind and head off on fast roads, rolling our way through undulating farmlands towards the Parque Natural de la Sierra Magina. This rugged park of precipitous limestone is a joy to cycle through. Its summits, culminating in the 2,165m peak of Magina are frequently snow capped, reflecting a special Andalucian translucent light, topped by deep blue skies.

The riding flows on with yet more stunning views. If we are lucky we may get a chance to spot a bonelli or golden eagle soaring high above sheer limestone cliffs as we pass castle fortified villages that were once Moorish strongholds. The scenery becomes dramatic and desert like, almost a mini Arizona, with sheer sandstone cliffs guiding us though the ‘badlands’.

We take on a favourite ride of the local Granadense crew through the stunning pine clad Parque Natural de Huetor. The road twists and winds its way across high ground before dropping towards the ancient capital of Granada. For our lunchtime picnic, it would be unjust not to soak our bread in the olive oil of Magina, as it’s said to be the finest in Spain and is often described as liquid gold. Just before we reach the city we swing east and climb into the real Sierra Nevada, to the village of Guejar Sierra, with great views of Mulhacen and Alcazaba, the highest peaks in the range. Guejar is the perfect springboard for tomorrow’s cycling feast.

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Day 5
Guejar Sierra to Granada
53 Miles / 85 Kms Approx.
Ascent: 2,585 Metres Approx.
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch
  • Ascent: 2,585 Metres Approx.

This is a fantastic day on the bike, comprising the climb that all Spanish cyclists want to tick off their list. It’s a climb that will take us high into the Sierra Nevada on the highest drivable road in Europe, well that was until it was closed to traffic, but luckily not bikes! First off we’ll cruise around the Canales Reservoir and head up the beautiful valley, deep into the sierra. You can climb to the summit of Pico Veleta which stands at a grand 3,400m above sea level. The overall climb is pretty steady, but obviously its length and altitude create a great challenge. If you finish the whole climb to Pico Veleta it’s a whopping 2,500m of ascent! We stay off the main road that runs up to the Pradollano ski station by taking a little known detour up the picturesque Genil river valley. As this single lane road leaves the valley bottom it heads into a series of switchbacks that steepens the going a little.

Shortly after rejoining the main road we’ll reach the ski station at almost 2,500m. The views are incredible and the feeling of achievement is infectious at the roof top of Spain.

All that’s left to do now is let off the brakes and take the exhilarating, almost 50km, descent back to Granada on a different road. An evening stroll around the walls of the lit Alhambra Palace which without doubt is the most beautiful and innovative piece of architecture constructed by the Moorish people who occupied Spain. Then we hit the tapas bars for Granada’s infamous assortment of free tapas. Yes free!

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Day 6
Granada to Almuñecar
47 Miles / 76 Kms Approx.
Ascent: 1,140 Metres Approx.
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch
  • Ascent: 1,140 Metres Approx.

Our final ride takes us from Granada at 700m down to sea level and the calm shores of the Mediterranean. Once out of the city, a steady climb will take us over the Puerto del Suspiro del Moro. From here we have an exhilarating descent from 1,200m down through the awesome Sierra del Chaparral.

We’ll take in some of the best views of the western edge of the snowy peaks as well as far down the coast of the Med. We’ll see vultures soaring high as we drop off this coastal ridge following the fertile banks of the Rio Verde to the lively coastal town of Almuñecar. A couple of sunset sangrias and a celebratory dinner will bring this great trip to a very fitting end.

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Day 7
Departure: Almuñecar / Malaga
Non Riding Day
  • Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast it will be time to pack our gear up for the last time and transfer back to Malaga for flights home.

Understanding Profiles

Use these profiles to see:

  • Distance in Km (horizontal axis)
  • Ascent / Descent in metres (vertical axis)

Click 'see gradient' to see:

  • Distance in Km (horizontal axis)
  • % Gradient (vertical axis)

Please check the scales on both graphs, and both axes as they both may differ from day to day.

White vertical lines indicate unpaved sections or slightly rougher terrain. Using both graphs, alongside the grading and terrain information provided, will give you a full picture of how flat, bumpy or steep the climbing on your particular tour is going to be. Please keep in mind this is an indicative guide and GPS units and software produce different statistical information.

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The Cycling

Terrain

A 100% tarmac route entirely suitable for racing style road bikes. The route is varied and includes some significant climbs and a number of long and occasionally technical switchback descents.

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Road Cycling Grade

1
2
3
4
5
Grade 3 - 4: Moderate/ Challenging

Distances between 50-75 miles / 80-120km per day

For more regular riders who like to push themselves a little from time to time

Not extreme but certainly challenging on occasions with some good climbing opportunities

Our grading guidelines have been carefully created based on our many years of cycling experience, as well as customer feedback from our trips. Of course, if you're still struggling to figure out where you fit on the scale, do feel free to give us a quick call and we'll be more than happy to help!

For more information about our grading system click here.

Is this suitable for you?

You’re an enthusiast. Road cycling is probably your main hobby and you ride regularly at weekends, staying on the bike for much of the day. You’re in pretty good shape, and you might also participate in cylo-sportive events. You also love a challenge and are looking for a tour with some good climbing, preferably with an opportunity to tick off some famous Tour de France cols, or the like. You’re a competent descender, and you’re not afraid of speed, but you ride safely and within your limits at all times. You understand road etiquette and you’re comfortable riding in a bunch. You might even take a stint at the front of the pack if the need arises.

For more information about the grading of this holiday in particular, please check out the terrain section which will give you some specifics of what to expect on this tour.

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Skedaddle are simply the best at cycling tours for serious riders. The overall package is first rate, the guides are excellent and the daily support is class! I wouldn’t travel with any other cycling company.

Phil, UK

Dates & Prices

Secure Your Holiday With A Deposit

Book now with a $375 deposit and nothing more to pay until 60 days before departure. Choose a date to start your booking and see all prices, including bike hire and single room supplements.

Select a date to view prices and book
Start Date
End Date
Duration
Price p.p.
Start Date
* 27/04/2025
Return Date
03/05/2025
Duration
7 days
Price
$2,560.00
Start Date
12/10/2025
Return Date
18/10/2025
Duration
7 days
Price
$2,560.00
*

Late Availability

We want you to know which tours are coming up soon, so you don’t miss out! If a trip has this symbol beside it, it means you don’t have long to snap up your place.

SAVE ON 2025 EARLY SEASON ESCAPES! Book before 17 November 2024 to get $125 off your tour departing on 27/04/2025. Apply the promo code FYR2025 when you book. Your discount will be applied once your booking is confirmed.

Whats Included Tick

A) Accommodation (shared twin / double en suite rooms)

B) Meals as per the itinerary (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner)

C) Full tour service, including Skedaddle guides

D) Unless stated, at least one leader qualified in first aid

E) Support vehicle and luggage transfers

F) GPX files available on request

G) Airport transfer on scheduled arrival day from Malaga Airport (AGP)

H) Airport transfer on scheduled departure day to Malaga Airport (AGP)

What's not Included Cross

A) Bike rental (available if required)

B) Flights and charges for travelling with your bike (if applicable)

C) Meals not stated in the itinerary

D) Travel insurance

E) Single room (available if required)

F) Personal clothing and equipment

G) Personal expenditure (souvenirs, bar bills, hotel facilities etc)

H) Airport transfers on days other than the scheduled arrival / departure days

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Private Departures

Private Departures

Are you keen to only travel with your family or friends? Struggling to find the right date? Well, we can organise a private departure for this tour and tailor aspects to suit your group's specific needs. Contact our friendly team and we'll help you turn your dream into reality.

The Essentials

Travel Options

Your tour starts in Lanjaron and finishes in Almuñecar.

Group airport transfers are included in the cost of your holiday and both the arrival and return transfer from / back to Malaga airport (AGP) will be co-ordinated with the group flight schedule.

We will provide you with details of suitable flight/arrival/departure schedules as flight timetables become available.

Please check with us before making any travel arrangements to ensure we have reached the minimum number required to guarantee your holiday and to make sure your arrangements fit with our scheduled transfers.

Please note If you make travel arrangements that fall outside of the scheduled transfer windows, there may be an additional charge for individual transfers.

Accommodation

Accommodation (shared twin or double rooms) will usually be en suite in 2/3 star hotels or guesthouses. Family run, personable, charming, comfortable and homely are boxes we tick when looking for places to stay. A million miles away from chain style hotels and all with unique touches.

Bike Hire

Rental bikes will typically be a Giant Defy Advanced 2 or Giant Liv Avail Advanced 2 (for those preferring a women’s specific geometry) – or equivalent, with a carbon frame and hydraulic disc brakes.

All our bikes have good quality components, and come equipped with two bottle cages and water bottle, a seat post bag containing: puncture repair kit, multitool, inner tube and pump.

We can also include a helmet which should be requested at the time of booking.

Please note that your bike will come with flat pedals as standard, so please do bring your own if you use clip-in pedals.

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News, Reviews & Stories

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