Murcia

Part of Spain

The Murcia region is located on the Mediterranean Sea, between Andalusia, Valencia and Castile-La Mancha. Murcia is also known as the ’Garden of Europe’ because of the fertile soil and the many citrus orchards. The area has a lot to offer for cyclists. From rolling hills to beautiful coastal paths or rugged mountains; there is something for every cyclist here. You will find a mix of flat roads and challenging climbs, such as the Collado Bermejo in the Sierra Espuña. The mild, Mediterranean climate makes it a popular destination for year-round training.

In terms of culture, Murcia also has a lot to offer. For example, visit the eponymous capital of Murcia itself, where you can visit iconic sights such as the Cathedral of Murcia, a particularly Gothic building with Baroque influences. While cycling, you will undoubtedly encounter traditional villages where time seems to stand still, such as Caravaca de la Cruz, an important pilgrimage town.

Murcia is an excellent destination for a cycling holiday, whether you prefer to bring your race bike, gravel bike or mountain bike (or want to rent one). Although it can get really hot in the summer, the climate in the other three seasons is fantastic for cycling. What you can definitely expect: warm sunshine, nice roads and plenty of variety in flatter routes or challenging climbs. This region is ideal for cyclists who find a cycling holiday on the Costa Blanca a bit too touristy. The Murcia region feels a bit more undiscovered and authentic.

The interior is characterized by impressive mountains, such as the Sierra Espuña and the Sierra de las Moreras, with challenging climbs and beautiful views. Between the mountains are valleys, such as those of Campos del Río, with extensive orchards and agricultural land. The coastline of Murcia offers a very different kind of landscape. Along the Mar Menor – the largest inland sea in Europe – the terrain is flat, but this is a perfect base from which to explore the mountainous area just south of Murcia city. The roads here are much quieter than in the busy capital of the region. The southern coast of Murcia is more rugged.

Spring (March to May): Spring is an excellent time to cycle in Murcia, with temperatures between 10°C and 20°C. The region comes to life with blooming flowers, green valleys and fresh mountain air. This is the ideal period for long rides, especially in the mountains such as the Sierra Espuña and along the coast of Mar Menor, with relatively few tourists.

Summer (June to August): The summer in Murcia can be hot, especially in July and August, with temperatures often reaching above 30°C, especially in the lower valleys and along the coast. In the mountains it often remains cooler, but it is advisable to cycle early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the heat. Summer is the busiest time of the year, so be prepared for more tourists in popular areas like the Costa Cálida.

Autumn (September to November): Autumn offers pleasant temperatures of 15°C to 25°C, ideal for long bike rides. Nature transforms into beautiful autumn colors, especially in mountainous areas such as the Sierra de las Moreras and the Sierra de la Pila. This period is quiet after the tourist season ends, allowing you to enjoy the region in all its tranquility.

Winter (December to February): The winter in Murcia is mild, with temperatures between 5°C and 15°C in the lower-lying areas. In the mountains, it can get colder, with the possibility of snow and rain. This is a quiet period for cycling, ideal for those who enjoy silence and cool rides. The coast and lower valleys remain suitable for cycling, but in the mountains you need to be prepared for winter conditions.

You shouldn't miss these climbs in Murcia

Collado Bermejo from Alhama de Murcia

Length: 20 kilometers
Altitude meters: 1152 meters
Average rate of increase: 5,7%.
Starting point: Alhama de Murcia
Description: This climb takes you to the Sierra Espuña regional park. Here you’ll find green nature and beautiful, well-maintained roads. You’re guaranteed beautiful views along the way. An absolute must-do!

Read more about cycling in the Sierra Espuña here.

Murcia in the winter

Murcia is one of the driest and sunniest regions in Spain. In winter, it is often 16 to 19 degrees during the day. In the Sierra Espuña, around Collado Bermejo, it is considerably higher and is much cooler than along the coast. The landscape is barren and rugged, with citrus groves in the valleys and pine forests in the mountains. The roads in the interior are quiet: this is Spain without the crowds of the famous costas.

Starting point

Alhama de Murcia is located at the foot of the Sierra Espuña and is the logical base for climbers. If you want to be by the sea as well, choose the coast around Mazarrón or the Mar Menor; then you can drive to the mountains in about an hour.

What to bring?

• A windbreaker and arm guards for the long descent of the Collado Bermejo.
• Two canistersIn the interior, the villages are scarce.

Travel tips

• Best destination: The area around Sierra Espuña suits you best when you want to climb, like the town of Totana. Do you like coastal routes? Then look for accommodation on the Costa Cálida, the southern coast of Murcia. Here you’ll find rocky coastlines and beautiful sandy beaches. Besides cycling, you can also do great mountain biking tours here. The area around the Mar Menor – the largest inland sea in Europe – attracts many cyclists who want to cycle on quiet, flatter roads. From here you can also easily reach the mountains for good climbing training.
• Traffic information: Murcia is relatively quiet in terms of traffic, especially outside the high season. The mountains offer narrow, quiet roads that are perfect for cyclists, with little traffic. Along the coast and in larger cities like Murcia City and Cartagena, traffic can be busier, especially in the summer months, but overall the roads are well navigable for cyclists.
• Culinary: The cuisine of Murcia is simple but delicious, with many fresh ingredients from the region. Be sure to try the caldero, a typical fish dish from the region that is often served with rice and seafood from the seabed. The huerta de Murcia, a fertile agricultural area, produces fresh vegetables and fruit that often appear in local dishes. Don’t forget to try a glass of vino de Jumilla, a robust red wine from the region.

When are you leaving?

How do you get there?

• Flying: Fly to Murcia (Corvera) · Alicante. Bring your own bike; then book a place for your bike box in time.
• By train: Convenient stations: Murcia · Totana.
• By car: From Utrecht you are in about 21 hours MurciaPlan an overnight stop along the way, or drive in two days.