This bicycle tour takes you through some of Andalusia’s most stunning regions, following the route favored by the Arab Caliphates during the 11th and 12th centuries. The bicycling routes include an old rail track perfectly adapted for pedaling on smaller country roads and paths. We stay in outstanding accommodation: four-star hotels in the bigger cities and smaller hotels with their own special charm in a few picturesque Andalusian villages. You will encounter olive groves, wineries, flamenco, Arab baths, white towns decked out with heaps of geraniums, castles and so much more! This is a perfect cycling route to experience traditional Andalusian cuisine with excellent wines. We use our Bike Spain minibus for half of the journey to arrive at the starting points of each one of our stages. We’ll ride the most interesting parts of our journey and each day’s stages may be lengthened or shortened depending on the group’s cycling abilities. Day 1: Cordoba. In the morning, you will meet your guide at your hotel. We depart Madrid early, heading south into the sun-drenched heart of Spain. Along the way, we’ll pause in the legendary land of Don Quijote, La Mancha, to admire the iconic windmills immortalized in Cervantes’ timeless novel. Alternatively, for those who wish to spend the day exploring the quaint streets and vibrant atmosphere of Córdoba, you may take the high-speed train from Madrid in the morning and join us in the city by evening. At night, we will fully immerse ourselves in Andalusian culture with a leisurely tapas dinner, sampling the rich flavors and traditions of the region. Ten centuries ago, Córdoba was one of the world’s greatest cities and the thriving capital of Muslim Spain. Today, it remains a treasure trove of history and artistry, most famously home to the magnificent Mezquita, a stunning mosque-cathedral that we will visit upon arrival. Wandering through the atmospheric Arab and Jewish quarters, with their narrow, winding streets, courtyards, and hidden squares, offers a uniquely intimate glimpse into the city’s storied past and enduring charm. Day 2: Zuheros. After breakfast, we will transfer by van from Córdoba southwards to the stunning Sierra Subbética Natural Park (approximately 45 minutes). Today’s first cycling route takes you through the region’s sun-drenched vineyards, culminating at a traditional, family-run country estate in Montilla, where wine and olive oil have been crafted for generations. Here, you will uncover the secrets of their artisanal production before enjoying an exclusive, private lunch on the estate, accompanied by some of their finest wines. Following lunch, we’ll continue by van to our next hotel, a beautiful rural retreat set amidst breathtaking countryside, offering spectacular views and a refreshing pool. Guests may also indulge in rejuvenating Arab baths and massages for the ultimate relaxation. For those seeking a little extra adventure, an optional 15 km ride is available this afternoon, providing a chance to explore the surrounding landscape further. Tonight, we will gather for a gourmet dinner in the hotel’s excellent restaurant, savoring the flavors of the region in an elegant and welcoming setting. Day 3: Loja. The Sierra Subbética Natural Park, home to some of Andalusia’s most stunning landscapes, sets the stage for today’s ride. We cycle through serene, winding roads framed by endless olive groves, heading first to Luque, famed for the dramatic ruins of its Moorish castle, and then to Priego de Córdoba, celebrated for its 17th- and 18th-century palaces and charming, flower-lined streets that invite leisurely exploration. Today is all about savoring the tranquility of the mountains, the scent of olive trees, and the gentle curves of the quiet roads as we make our way south toward the fertile valley of the Genil River. Our ride concludes in the picturesque lakeside village of Iznájar, where we pause for a relaxing lunch before a short transfer to the extraordinary Hotel La Bobadilla. This luxurious 5-star retreat, set amid sprawling gardens and olive groves, offers a sanctuary of elegance and comfort—perfect for an indulgent swim in its expansive pools or simply soaking in the breathtaking surroundings. Day 4: Loja. After breakfast, we will set off directly from the hotel on a scenic circular route through the olive groves, leading us to Riofrío, a charming village renowned for its caviar. Following a visit to a local fish farm, we will sample this regional delicacy and enjoy a leisurely lunch. Afterwards, we will return to Hotel La Bobadilla by van, or for those who wish, you can cycle back to the hotel. This afternoon, unwind with a rejuvenating spa treatment—already included as part of your stay—before enjoying dinner in the hotel’s elegant Andalusian patio, savoring the flavors of the region in a serene and luxurious setting. Day 5: Granada. This morning, we will transfer by van from La Bobadilla toward Granada, with a stop in the picturesque town of Montefrío, perched at over 830 meters above sea level and renowned for its dramatic, panoramic setting. From here, we begin our bike ride through the fertile Andalusian countryside, passing rolling fields and charming villages, with scenic views guiding us toward the vibrant city of Granada. The ride concludes at the tranquil Cubillas Reservoir, where we will enjoy a leisurely lunch of traditional Spanish fare by the sparkling waters. This evening, we will indulge in a dinner of authentic local cuisine accompanied by a captivating flamenco show. Born from the rich fusion of cultures and musical traditions of Andalusia, flamenco is a living expression of the region—and Granada offers the perfect stage to experience its passionate, unforgettable performance. Day 6: Granada. After farewells and a brief overview of today’s activities, your guide will return to Madrid, leaving you to enjoy an extra day in Granada at your own pace. No visit to Andalusia is complete without a half-day exploring the Alhambra Palace, the most complete and exquisitely restored example of Moorish architecture in Western Europe. We provide tickets and a guided tour in English, allowing you to wander its centuries-old halls, intricate courtyards, and lush gardens, and to savor breathtaking views from the palace battlements. Afterward, stroll through the atmospheric Albayzín neighborhood, with its narrow, winding streets and traditional whitewashed houses. As the sun sets, head to the Mirador de San Nicolás for the perfect view of the Alhambra’s iconic red walls set against the snow-capped peaks of the Sierra Nevada—a truly unforgettable finale to your Andalusian cycling adventure. Day 7: Departure. There are several convenient options for departing Granada, with excellent train connections to cities across Spain or regional flights. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you would like assistance arranging your onward travel plans. Arrival/Departure. FIX THIS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! transfer in van included to cordoba, from granada take high-speed to wherever. Arrival airport: Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas (MAD). Direct flights to Madrid are available from a number of destinations in the USA. Your guides will pick you up from Madrid airport, or your city centre hotel, and transfer you by van to the start of the tour in León. Please consult with your Bike Spain Tours travel coordinator if you wish to book extra nights in Madrid before the start of the tour. Accommodation: we always offer you the best hotels on the spot – charming, authentic and surprising - the most central places in the cities and the most spectacular places in the countryside. Meals: all breakfasts, 4 lunches, 3 dinners including wine and 1 dinner featuring tapas. Bikes: state of the art Specialized touring bike and all the accessories you might need (optional e-bike and carbon road bikes also available). Bilingual guide(s) to ensure that you always enjoy superior customer service. Support vehicle that helps you with a flat tyre, offers you refreshments and snacks when you need them, takes you along on the uphill of end-of-the-day parts and transports your luggage from one place to the other. Detailed itinerary with your customized bike routes (in RideWithGPS- a bike navigation app) and all you’d like know about Spain and the region you go to. Transportation from rendezvous to final drop-off, from our quaint region to our centrally located meeting place, both for you and your luggage. Travel insurance with medical assistance. Gratuities for baggage, restaurants and hotel service. Exclusive BikeSpain gifts Bike Center travel coordinator that is available to assist you with all of your pre- & post-trip travel plans and arrangements (hotels, restaurants, transport and more…).
Hotel
A dedicated guide for this region is not available yet.
