The Ultimate Tour of Andalusia

Your Andalusian cycling adventure truly begins today. The route from Pizarra unfolds along the verdant Guadalhorce Valley, guiding us past the stunning natural landmark of El Chorro, with its imposing cliffs that command attention and respect.

The journey continues alongside the deep blue waters of Ardales, offering tranquil views that contrast sharply with the rugged landscapes encountered earlier. Our path gently winds up the Turon Valley, an ascent that gradually reveals the serene beauty of Andalusia’s countryside, dotted with olive groves and citrus orchards.

The day’s destination, El Burgo, emerges as a quintessential white village perched on the Sierra de las Nieves Natural Park’s outskirts. This area, known for its natural beauty and biodiversity, offers a serene backdrop to our day’s end. El Burgo, with its narrow streets and traditional Andalusian architecture, provides a glimpse into the rural heart of the region, inviting exploration and relaxation after the day’s ride.

Fuelled by a hearty breakfast, we embark on a ride that promises to be as breathtaking as it is challenging. Today’s journey takes us deep into the heart of the Sierra de las Nieves, ascending the Víbora pass. This climb, surrounded by towering pines, offers expansive views to the east, providing a stunning backdrop as we navigate through Andalusia’s rugged terrain.

The descent from the Víbora pass is a thrilling ride, where each turn reveals new vistas and the landscapes gradually transition to reveal the historic villages of Teba and Cañete. These villages, crowned with ancient castles, stand as silent witnesses to the region’s rich history, offering a glimpse into Andalusia’s past.

Our destination, Setenil de las Bodegas, is a village unlike any other. Renowned for its unique dwellings carved into the rock overhangs above the Rio Guadalporcun, Setenil offers a fascinating blend of natural beauty and human ingenuity. The village’s streets and houses blend seamlessly with the natural rock, creating a captivating landscape that has to be seen to be believed.

You will start in Setenil de las Bodegas, exploring its unique architecture built into cliffside rocks. The route leads through vineyards framed by Grazalema Natural Park’s limestone peaks, passing the serene Zahara-Gastor reservoir. A stop in Zahara de la Sierra, crowned by its hilltop castle, offers stunning views and a chance to pause.

The climb to Puerto de las Palomas will reward with sweeping vistas of the surrounding landscape, including the dramatic Garganta Verde gorge and soaring griffon vultures. A final descent reveals Grazalema, a charming village renowned for its handwoven blankets and striking mountain setting.

Today offers a gentler start, as there’s no need to pack up; our loop ride will bring us back to Grazalema. The day kicks off with a climb to the Boyar Pass, standing proudly over 1,000m, where breathtaking views stretch across the Tavizna valley and towards the dramatic Salto del Cabrero gorge.

What follows is an exhilarating descent, dropping over a thousand meters and leading us past the quaint village of Benamahoma, through the pine-clad Albarracin range, and eventually to the town of El Bosque. This descent not only offers a rush of adrenaline but also showcases some of Andalusia’s most stunning landscapes.

The day begins in Grazalema, with a route winding through holm oak and cork forests towards Montejaque, framed by the Sierra and El Hacho mountain. After passing Jimera de Libar, the climb ahead offers steady pacing and rewarding views. The path continues through Juzcar and Los Riscos, where striking rock formations signal the transition from the Genal Valley to the Las Nieves Natural Park.

A descent into Ronda brings the day to a close. Perched above the El Tajo canyon, Ronda enchants with its medieval streets, Moorish architecture, and the iconic Puente Nuevo.

The final ride will trace the northern edge of Sierra de las Nieves National Park, blending Andalusia’s natural beauty with the charm of its white towns. The route leads to El Burgo, offering scenic viewpoints and tranquil village stops that invite reflection on the week’s journey. Cycling through familiar landscapes, you will revisit the enchanting pueblos blancos, soaking in their timeless atmosphere. The journey concludes in Pizarra, marked by a sense of achievement after exploring Andalusia’s historic and stunning corners.

As the sun rises over Pizarra, marking the beginning of new journeys, gather your memories of Andalusian roads, majestic mountains, and the timeless beauty of pueblos blancos. It’s time to say goodbye to Spain and prepare for your departure. Safe travels, amigos.