cycling in murcia

General

The region of Murcia lies on the Mediterranean Sea, in between Andalusia, Valencia and Castile-La Mancha. Murcia is also known as the 'garden of Europe' because of its fertile soil and many citrus orchards. The area has much to offer for cyclists. From rolling hills, to beautiful coastal roads 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. Not for nothing do many professional teams spend the winter period in Murcia.

Murcia also has a lot to offer culturally. For example, visit Murcia's capital of the same name itself, where you can visit iconic sights such as the Cathedral of Murcia, an extraordinary Gothic building with Baroque influences. While cycling, you are sure to encounter traditional villages where time seems to stand still, such as Caravaca de la Cruz, an important pilgrimage town.

Why go on a cycling holiday in Murcia?

Murcia is an excellent destination for a cycling holiday, whether you like to take (or hire) your road bike, gravel bike or mountain bike. Although it can get really hot in summer, the climate in the other three seasons is fantastic for getting out and about by bike. What you can expect anyway; warm sunshine, fine roads and lots of variation in flatter routes or challenging climbs. This region is ideal for cyclists who find a cycling holiday on the Costa Blanca just a bit too touristy. The Murcia region feels just a little more undiscovered and authentic.

Discover Murcia's diverse landscapes

The interior is characterised by impressive mountains, such as Sierra Espuña and Sierra de las Moreras, with challenging climbs and beautiful views. Between the mountains are valleys, such as that of Campos del Río, with vast orchards and farmland. Murcia's coastline offers a very different kind of landscape. Along the Mar Menor - Europe's largest inland sea - it is flat, but this is a perfect base to explore the mountainous area just south of Murcia city. The roads here are a lot quieter than in the region's busy capital. Murcia's southern coast is more rugged.

The best travel period for a cycling holiday in Murcia

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

Summer (June to August):
Summer in Murcia can be hot, especially in July and August, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C, especially in the lower valleys and along the coast. It often stays cooler in the mountains, 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 year, so be prepared for more tourists in popular areas such as the Costa Cálida.

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

Winter (December to February):
Winter in Murcia is mild, with temperatures between 5°C and 15°C in the lower regions. It can get colder in the mountains, with chances of snow and rain. This is a quiet period for cycling, ideal for those who like quiet and cool rides. The coast and lower valleys remain good for cycling, but in the mountains you should be prepared for winter conditions.

These climbs are not to be missed in Murcia

Sierra Espuña from Alhama de Murcia

Length: 20 kilometres
Altimeters: 1152 metres
Average gradient: 5,7%.
Starting point: Alhama de Murcia
Description: Want to climb a lot of altimeters? Then climb to the highest point of Sierra Espuña at 1391 metres. There is little traffic here and the road surface is good. You are guaranteed beautiful views along the way and the altimeters remain even. An absolute must-do!

Travel tips

Dear destination: The area around Sierra Espuña suits you best if you like to climb. From Murcia city - where the landscape is a bit flatter - it is just too far to cycle here. One of the smaller towns around Murcia is ideal to be closer to the mountains and experience the real authentic Spain. Do you like coastal routes? Then find accommodation on the Costa Cálida, Murcia's southern coast. Here you will find rocky coastlines and beautiful sandy beaches. Besides cycling, you can also go on cool mountain bike rides here. The area around the Mar Menor - Europe's largest inland sea - 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 off-season. The mountains offer narrow, quiet roads that are perfect for cyclists, with little traffic. Along the coast and in the larger cities such as Murcia City and Cartagena traffic can be busier, especially in the summer months, but generally the roads are well navigable for cyclists.
Culinary: Murcia's cuisine is simple but delicious, with many fresh ingredients from the region. Be sure to try caldero, a typical fish dish from the region often served with rice and seafood delicacies. The huerta de Murcia, a fertile agricultural area, provides fresh fruit and vegetables that are often found in local dishes. Also don't forget to try a glass of vino de Jumilla, a robust red wine from the region.