When it's cold and wet in northern and central Europe, the sun shines in Spain. Andalusia, the southernmost region of Spain, is a perfect winter destination for cyclists. With more than 300 sunny days a year is it one of the sunniest European destinations. In the winter months, the temperature is ideal for long bike rides. With an average warmest temperature of 17°C Can you even take your bib shorts to winter destination Andalusia.
Andalusia is enormous: the region measures some 550 kilometres from east to west and some 300 kilometres from north to south. The vibrant capital is Seville, but you'll also find iconic cities like Málaga, Granada and Córdoba. Piece by piece, cities with a rich history, which still beautifully come to life in the old city centres.
The landscapes in the Andalusia region vary enormously. From the dry Badlands, something to the north of the Sierra Nevada, to the wettest part of Spain; Grazelam. Right in the north, on the border with Castile-La Mancha, lie the foothills of the Sierra Morena. Here you'll find an endlessly undulating plateau full of cork oaks, holm oaks, and vast meadows.Dehesas).
At the level of Córdoba and Jaén Cycle through the heart of Spanish olive production. Millions of olive trees adorn the hills as far as the eye can see. The roads are quiet, rolling, and perfect for covering lots of miles.
Once you head southwest, the landscape becomes increasingly flat. Around Seville The landscape is vast and open. Cyclists who enjoy picking up the pace and taking gentle, flat rides through the countryside will find plenty to love around Seville.
In the east, the landscape is completely different. Just east of Granada, you’ll find the Sierra Nevada. This is a high mountain range with Pico Veleta as the absolute peak. In winter (until well into spring) there is snow on the tops, but the Climb to the ski village is kept free of snow.
Just northeast of the Sierra Nevada lies the Tabernas desert and the dry Badlands. It's a surreal landscape of eroded canyons and sand-coloured rocks. It's no coincidence that several Western films have been shot here.
Andalusia has it all: gravel tracks and smooth tarmac roads, a beautiful coastline and rugged interior, historic cities and charming, typically Spanish villages. Every cyclist wanting to escape the cold in winter will find Andalusia a great winter destination. Whether you want lots of climbing or a little, and whether you prefer to stay on the coast or inland.
Many destinations in Andalusia are also easily accessible by plane and train network if you prefer not to travel south by car.
In Andalusia, it's generally still good to climb up to a height of 1,500 to 2,000 metres, depending on the current weather. Do you want to not only cycle in the sun, but to really get the most out of your training sessions? Then head to the Sierra Nevada. The main access road from Granada to the Pradollano ski resort is kept clear of snow. You can climb well here in winter up to around 2,100 metres height. Be prepared, however; at this altitude, the temperature is no longer as warm as in the lower-lying areas.
Prefer to climb on your gravel bike? On the south side of the Sierra Nevada lie the Alpujarras. Here you cycle at altitudes between 800 and 1,500 metres with views of the white peaks.
Prefer not to consider snow at all? Then, strangely enough, the region of the Sierra de las Nieves (The Snow Mountainsa great winter destination. With climbs such as Puerto del Viento (1,075 metres) and Puerto del Madroño (1,065 metres) and quiet, snow-free roads, this is a great destination to get your legs ready for spring.
A big advantage of visiting Andalusia in winter is that you can taste the real, Authentic Spanish life. Spanish hospitality truly completes your cycling holiday. When you stay outside the cities or cycle through the tranquil countryside, you absolutely must stop at a Spanish cafe or tapas bar to replenish your energy reserves. Don't be surprised if you pause here for longer than expected, as you've got chatting with the hospitable locals.
There is hardly a better destination to combine cycling and culture than Andalusia. In winter, it's a lot quieter in the big cities, meaning you'll miss the mass tourism and the old city centres so you can have the optimal experience. Strolling through the historic streets is a wonderful way to end your training day or to fill a rest day.
Enjoying Spanish life also means enjoying Spanish cuisine. During your morning ride, order Tostada with tomato., a roll spread with fresh tomato and local olive oil that is just the right fuel for the miles ahead. After a long drive in the winter sun, you'll sit down for the real work: then it's time for delicious tasty tapas. The pure, Spanish hospitality and the delicious food will make your winter cycling holiday complete!
Andalusia has several bike-friendly hotels. As many cyclists come to train in this region, many hotels are set up for cyclists and in many cases bringing your bike in the room is no problem. Contact the hotel in advance to make sure.
Looking for accommodation near Sierra Nevada, Granada and La Alpujarra? Then Hotel Impressive Playa Granada Golf Motril a good choice. This Bike Friendly hotel not only offers a nice and safe place to store bikes, but also has a workshop with spare parts and a washing area. This hotel is a perfect base to cycle beautiful routes, both road and off-road.
Length: 31 kilometres
Altimeters: 1.560 metres
Average gradient: 5%
Starting point: Granada
Description: The climb to the ski resort of Pradollano in the Sierra Nevada is an absolute winter classic for cyclists! Whilst the highest peaks of the Pico del Veleta lie deep beneath the snow, this wide access road to the ski resort is kept completely clear of snow throughout the winter. You climb steadily on perfect tarmac through an impressive alpine landscape. The gradients are very consistent, averaging 5%, and never extreme, making this the ultimate climb for working on your endurance during the winter months. As you get closer to the ski village at an altitude of 2,100 metres, you literally cycle into a winter wonderland. The view of the glistening snowfields around you is phenomenal, and the unique experience of cycling amongst winter sports enthusiasts makes this climb unforgettable. Please note: due to the altitude, it can be quite cold at the top, so be sure to bring a good windbreaker and extra layers for the long descent back to Granada!
Length: 10 kilometres
Altimeters: 330 metres
Average gradient: 3,3%
Starting point: Ronda
Description: The Puerto del Viento is a delightful winter climb that starts right from Ronda. This picturesque mountain pass takes you deep into the Sierra de las Nieves and, thanks to its low altitude, remains snow-free all winter long. The climb is on smooth tarmac and, with an average gradient of just over 3%, is the ideal climb to tackle without excessive effort. At the top, you’ll be treated to a stunning view. Once over the summit, you can begin the beautiful descent towards El Burgo.
The GR341 Footpath Caminos de Pasión is a multi-day route for cyclists wanting to explore the Andalusian interior. In three to seven days, you'll cycle approximately 340 kilometres from Granada to Seville. At the end of the route, you can easily return to Granada by train – or vice versa.
There is a route for every discipline. You can download this on the Official website.
For those who truly want to step off the beaten path, the Al-Ballut Bike Experience in the northernmost tip of the province of Córdoba, a recommendation. This bikepacking route takes you to the Pedroches Valley, a beautiful, tranquil area known for Europe's largest contiguous dehesa (pastureland), where the famous Iberian pigs roam. This is the ultimate route to to enjoy pure Spanish hospitality and to get to know a ‘undiscovered’ piece of Spain. Each of the 17 villages has a unique physical ‘Waypoint’ (a sign with a QR code). Scan them all with your phone to prove you've crossed the entire region and earn the coveted Golden Acorn (The Golden Acorn) as the ultimate souvenir!
There are three different routes, allowing you to choose between a road bike (255 kilometres), gravel bike (344 kilometres) or mountain bike (425 kilometres).
Would you prefer cycling with a sea view? And strolling past the harbours and along the promenade in the evening? Then Málaga is the best place for you to stay. Málaga is easy to reach and you can cycle numerous beautiful routes from the city. We recently went on a trip with Eat Sleep Cycle to explore the beautiful surroundings of Málaga. Read all about it in this article.
Of course, Andalusia has some unmissable cycling routes. We have posted some of them on our Komoot page (see below).
