Bike tour from Granada to Ronda (Route of the Almoravids)

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Route of the Almoravids I

If you want to make an unforgettable journey, in touch with nature and local culture; if you want to travel in time and space, getting to know a large part of Andalusia in all its diversity; if you like cycling and contact with local people, then you simply must ride this bike tour through Andalusia along the Route of the Almoravids!

The first part of Route of the Almoravids, from Granada to Ronda is to be done in 5 stages. If you would like to ride more days, you can continue with the second part, the bike tour from Ronda to Arcos (8 stages), or even on to El Puerto de Santa María at the Atlantic Sea (1o stages)!

Bike from Granada to Ronda

On this bike tour through Andalusia along the first part of the Route of the Almoravids  you will get to grips with the roots of the ancient kingdom of Granada. Setting out from this city, we head southwest crossing the Almijara and Antequera Mountains, passing the beautiful El Chorro gorge and climbing to the mountain pass of the Wind (Puerto del Viento, 1190 m) to finish in romantic Ronda. These are just some of the places, peoples and pleasures that come together to form the backdrop for an unforgettable experience.

The inlands of Andalusia

The bike route of the Almoravids through the inlands of Andalusia, its unspoilt and varied landscapes and its historic towns and cities – Ronda, Antequera, Alhama, Granada- form the heritage that you will share with the ‘romantic’ travellers of the 19th century who came from overseas to discover the sensuality and mysticism of Spain.

Highlights

To sink in a little further, you will be able to explore the palaces and gardens of the Alhambra, immerse yourself in the medicinal waters of the Roman Spa in Alhama, savour a traditional ‘bienmesabe’ in Antequera or witness some quality flamenco.

Otros Caminos in co-operation with the prestigious Foundation El legado andalusí has developed  the Mayor European Cultural Itinerary “The Route of the Almoravids and Almohads” as a historical and cultural cycling experience.Logo El Legado Andalusí

Granada - arrival

Granada – arrival

Arrival to Granada by public bus from Málaga airport , it takes only about 2 hours. You can also ask for a private transfer. Warm welcome at a charming hotel (***) in the historical centre of Granada. And in the evening have some drinks in one of the many little bars, and you'll be invited to the tapas!  

Granada - Alhama de Granada (53-61 km)

Granada – Alhama de Granada (53-61 km)

Cycling along the fertile plain of Granada over smooth hillocks and through small villages to Alhama, once a very important town in the Nasrid Kingdom, now famous for its thermal baths. You can see the original cistern where its hot water, with medicinal properties, has been collected since times gone by. It is built on a Roman foundation and crowned by Moorish arches in the Caliphate style. You can have a bath yourself in “El baño de la Reina” (Queens’ bath) before climbing into the old village of Alhama.. You will stay in the nice renovated guesthouse of Paco and Lola, where you can have a fabulous dinner.

Alhama de Granada-Riogordo (surroundings)(40-49 km)

Alhama de Granada-Riogordo (surroundings)(40-49 km)

Having crossed over the small reservoir to be found facing the rural hotel, we continue along the Viñas path, and then head down along the bottom of Alhama mountains to the Alcaiceria farmstead, where we take the secondary road to Ventas de Zafarraya (completely flat). We pass the famous Boquete (gap) de Zafarraya (906 m), the only pass by which to cross the rugged Alhama and Tejeda mountains. Now following the route of the old mountain railway line that used to come up form Vélez Málaga, we have spectacular views of the whole region Axarquia rolling down to the sea. Continue to the charming rural lodge, completely supplied by sun energy, and have dinner here.

Riogordo (surroundings) - Antequera (39-52km)

Riogordo (surroundings) – Antequera (39-52km)

Riding on country roads with practically no traffic, we cross the remainder of the mountainous Axarquía region between Rio Gordo and Villanueva de Cauche. From there we take an excellent short cut to get to the foothills of the Torcal mountain and descend to the old town of Antequera, entering through its Malaga Gate. In case of rain you continue along tarmac roads making todays tour 12 km longer! Then you head down fast to Antequera, approaching this ancient town by its oldest and beautiful route of access, enjoying beautiful views of its white-washed houses and the Peña de los Enamorados (Lover’s Rock), named after a local legend about the impossible love of a young Christian man and a beautiful Moorish girl, driven to the top of the cliff by the Moorish soldiers. Rather than renounce their love, they chose to hurl themselves into the abyss. You will stay in a 3-star hotel in the historical centre. If you wish, you can upgrade to the Parador**** with swimming pool, price depends on exact date and time of booking.

Antequera - El Chorro (34 km)

Antequera – El Chorro (34 km)

We go from the ancient city of Antequera, through the Abdalajis Valley, caught between mountains ranges and the Torcal Peak, towards the village of El Chorro, well known for its gorgeous reservoir and magical enclave for climbers. Also famous for the path Caminito del Rey, once known as world’s most dangerous walkway, nowadays a safe but still impressive path  that stretches between two gorges, canyons and a large valley. If you want to do this spectacular hike in the afternoon, remember to indicate this at the time of reservation.

El Chorro - Ronda (60 km)

El Chorro – Ronda (60 km)

Today the biking will be a bit more challenging, although you will ride only on tarmac road. You start with a beautiful ride through a strange, lunar landscape to the villages of Ardales and El Burgo. Then you have to climb to the Puerto de los Vientos (Mountain pass of the Winds, 1190m), crossing the beautiful Sierra de las Nieves Nature Reserve. A long descent will bring you finally to the lively town of Ronda, where you will stay in a charming hotel.  

Ronda, end of the journey

Ronda, end of the journey

If you have not booked an extra night, your the journey will have come to an end and from here you return by bus (2 hours) to Málaga airport.

Accommodation with breakfast

Included

6 night

Information on the trip

Included

Luggage transport

Included

Services not included

Caminito del Rey, entrance and bus

Not Included

20€

Supplement for single occupation

Not Included

190€

6 nights

Bike rental with delivery & collection

Not Included

250€

E-Bike rental with delivery and collection

Not Included

350€

Extra night in Granada

Not Included

from 50€

1 night

Extra night (charming Hotel in Ronda)

Not Included

50€

1 night

Extra night before starting the tour, in double room with breakfast

Rental of back Pannier

Not Included

20€

A side-back pannier (maximum 20 kilos)

Helmet rental

Not Included

10€

Questions about the travel

If you have any questions or suggestions about this tour you can use this simple form, we will respond immediately.

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Roman Bridge Cordoba

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