Bike touring in spain: 7 most incredible bike touring routes

7 most incredible bike touring routes

As a pair of Dutch girls, I guess we can say that cycling is more or less in our blood! Our adventures have taken us around the world, and more often than not, we’ve enjoyed the sights from the saddle of our trusty bicycles. However, I’ve got to say that bike touring in Spain for a month was one of my favorite bicycle trips of all time!

Cycling in Spain is perhaps the best way to see this incredible country. The sleepy, rustic villages shouldn’t be rushed through, and riding through the beautiful sunshine through the awesome scenery is pure joy! There are a number of official bicycle tours in Spain, with well-signed routes traveling along mostly vehicle-free tracks.

Plus, the weather is almost always gorgeous, with long sunny days well into autumn. It’d be amazing to do a full bike tour of Spain if time allowed, and it’s something we’ve dreamed of! But, for something a little more manageable, the following 7 bike touring routes in Spain are absolutely spectacular.

So, saddle up and let’s find out more!

1. Ruta De La Plata (The Silver Route)

Total distance: 936 km (582 miles)
Total elevation: 20,954 m (68,750 ft)

Also known as the Way of St. James, this is an astounding route for soaking up both sunshine and a little Spanish history. Passing through breathtaking scenery, the route travels south to north, through western Spain, from Seville up to Gijón on the Bay of Biscay. It follows one of the oldest Roman trade routes in the country, taking in a number of charming, historic towns and villages.

Along the way, there are countless opportunities to spend a day out of the saddle, exploring ancient ruins, castles, churches, and amphitheaters. The route follows cycle paths for much of the way and, for the most part, avoids busy roads entirely. Passing through calm, rolling countryside with some climbing along the way, you don’t have to be super fit to complete the route. However, you’ll probably enjoy it more if you’ve done a little training in advance.

With plenty of charming cities and towns to stop off at along the way, you can really take your time with this route. It can normally be completed within 9 days of around 100 km (60 miles) each, though it’s easy to break it down or speed it up. There’s a slightly different version of this trail, which converts it into a pilgrim’s route leading to Santiago rather than Gijón.

Map not loading? Click here or on the title of the trail on the right corner of the map, to get more information.

2. Camino de Santiago

Total distance: 361km (225 miles)
Total elevation: 6,337 m (20,800 ft)

This classic pilgrim’s route is among the oldest cycling routes in Spain. Crossing the north of the country from east to west, the route starts in the beautifully Gothic León. From this stunning start point, the route winds through unspoiled countryside, taking in villages, farms, and medieval monasteries, before culminating in the legendary Santiago.

Along the way you’ll follow the iconic seashell signs as they direct you through a mixed terrain of quiet minor roads, designated cycle routes, and the occasional off-road section. The rural countryside is pretty hilly, and you’ll need a fair level of fitness to enjoy it to the max. However, it’s possible to complete the trip in 6 moderate days, averaging around 54 km (33.5 miles).

The scenery along the route is as magnificent as it is varied, taking in grassy plains, woody mountains, lush green valleys, and rolling farmlands. There are also plenty of opportunities to explore the local area and enjoy the delicacies of the region, from tasty wines to moreish local cheeses.

Map not loading? Click here or on the title of the trail on the right corner of the map, to get more information.

More into hiking? Check out this ultimate guide: What To Expect of the Caminito del Rey? Once the Most Dangerous Hike in Spain

3. Mallorca Coast to Coast

Total distance: 100 km (147 miles)
Total elevation: 1,580 m (5,183 ft)

Mallorca is a stunningly beautiful island to go cycling in Spain and perhaps best known for its luxurious sandy beaches. However, there’s much more to discover on this Paradise Island, and this cycling route takes in all of the best sights. It offers a wonderful mix of coastal areas and the inland foothills of the Tramuntana mountains.

With tons of amazing family-run hotels and guesthouses on the island, it’s easy to adapt the route to your preference, with a fantastic place to stop each night. Most of the going is flat, on quiet, tarmac routes, with the occasional off-road sections. But take care on the couple of steep climbs you pass. Most days you can enjoy around 40 km (25 miles) of leisurely cycling, with plenty of time to enjoy the sights.

The route typically starts from the airport and ends in the beautiful cap Formenta. In between, you’ll visit sleepy rural villages, tranquil beaches, and cycle through unspoiled countryside. Mountain views abound, even though there are no real climbs on this route.

Map not loading? Click here or on the title of the trail on the right corner of the map, to get more information.

Tour Recommendation For a Day on the Bike on Mallorca:

4. The Way of El Cid

Total distance: 1,100 km (685 miles)
Total elevation: 18,740 m (61,480 ft)

You’ll be cycling in the footsteps of legends on this incredible Spanish cycle route. Rodrigo Diaz, or El Cid, was a medieval knight in the 11th century, and remains a national hero. This cycle route follows his epic journey from Burgos to Valencia, crossing through an amazingly varied landscape.

Map not loading? Click here or on the title of the trail on the right corner of the map, to get more information.

Along the way you’ll ride through quaint, medieval villages, unspoiled countryside, mountains and valleys, and conquer hilltop fortresses. The main route takes in 1,100 km (685 miles), but there are a number of interesting side routes that are worth considering if you have time. These circular routes take in various additional historic sights and majestic landscapes, and increase the total route to around 2,000 km (1,245 miles).

There are actually 2 different routes you can take; the paved route, or the mountain bike route. Both are well signed, and avoid busy roads for the most part. Mostly the going is easy to moderate, with the occasional climb. There are plenty of places to stop along the way, and you can split the journey up as it suits you, with 5 to 6 days being the average time taken.

Map not loading? Click here or on the title of the trail on the right corner of the map, to get more information.

More inspiration: Greatest European Bike Tours of All Times

5. Vía Verde (de la Sierra)

Total distance: 36.5 km (23 miles)
Total elevation gain: 1,261m (4,135 ft)

Roughly translated to ‘green lanes’, the Vias Verdes stretch for more than 2,200 km in total, all across Spain. After countless failed railway projects, the old tracks were converted into 120 of these impressive routes. They’re well signed, mostly flat, and easily accessible for everyone from hikers and cyclists, to horse riders and even wheelchair users.

When cycling in Spain, they’re a fantastic place to meet fellow travelers, and offer up incredible scenery that takes in everything Spain has to offer. From medieval cities to humble rural villages, through mountain passes to lush green valleys, the green lanes guarantee an incredible adventure.

One of the best routes for cyclists is the Vía Verde de la Sierra from Olvera to Serrano. This fairly easy-going 36.5 km (23 mile) trail takes in 30 tunnels, 4 incredible viaducts, and various medieval villages. The route from Olvera is mostly flat or downhill, making it an easy trail for beginners.

Map not loading? Click here or on the title of the trail on the right corner of the map, to get more information.

Do you know the difference between bikepacking and bike touring? Check it out here!

6. Col de Puymorens

Total distance: 176 km (109 miles)
Total elevation: 4,144 m (13,595 ft)

This breathtaking looped route takes you on an adventure through the glorious Pyrenees. Winding through the gorgeous Catalonian landscape, you’ll dip briefly into France, before returning to the small Catolonian villages and towns. It’s possible to cycle on paved roads, as well as mountain bike tracks, but both are largely free of motorized traffic.

As such, it’s a peaceful and enjoyable route to cycle, and while there are inclines, there’s nothing too hard going. For the most part, the route is fairly moderate and anyone with a pretty good level of fitness should be okay.

Along the way, you’ll enjoy a wealth of charming towns and villages, and for foodies, incredible cuisine and wine (there are 18 Michelin Star restaurants in the region). The route is well-signed and open throughout the year, though spring and autumn are the best times to visit. There are also plenty of opportunities to leave the official route and explore the surroundings.

Map not loading? Click here or on the title of the trail on the right corner of the map, to get more information.

Check out: The Best Guide Mountains in Spain: 9 Memorable Mountain Ranges

7.

The Tour of Andalusia Route

Total distance: 267 km (166 miles)
Total elevation: 6,733 m (22,089 ft)

This route is fantastic for cycling in Spain and gives you the opportunity to see the treasures of Andalusia in the south of Spain. An area famed for sandy beaches, desert landscapes, gorgeous towns, and awe-inspiring sierras. The route starts in the small town of Malaga, a cultural crossroads and the southernmost point of the Iberian Peninsula. After exploring Andalusia’s inland gems, you’ll return to the coast, with the route ending in another country: Gibraltar.

Along the way you’ll enjoy breathtaking scenery at almost every turn. Highlights include Ronda, an absolutely stunning mountaintop town, and epic national parks including Sierra de Grazalema. There are plenty of places to stop along the way, and incredible food and drink to enjoy.

The route is quite hard-going at times, with long, steep climbs. A good level of fitness is recommended to enjoy it to the fullest. However, it’s worth the effort, and the rewards are absolutely incredible!

Map not loading? Click here or on the title of the trail on the right corner of the map, to get more information.

Also read: What to bring on a cycling trip

EuroVelo Cycling Routes in Spain

Besides these 7 sensational bicycle tours, Spain has plenty more to offer. In fact, 3 epic EuroVelo routes cross through the country, taking in spectacular views and surroundings:

The Atlantic Coast Route (1)
The Pilgrim Route (2)
The Mediterranean Route (8)

If you’re looking for an incredible adventure, cycling in Spain is a very good choice. There are routes to suit all skill and fitness levels, all boasting spectacularly varied scenery, and passing through an incredibly culturally rich, historic corner of the world. If you have a question or a great experience, please leave a comment below.

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Spain Bike Tours – Cycling & Bike Trips in Spain

Explore Spain by Bike

Experience a sun-drenched Spain bike tour.

Explore winding country roads, dine on tapas and Spanish cuisine, and feel the warmth of the people of this passionate country on a cycling trip with Trek Travel. Whether you are riding along the sea in Costa Brava, climbing the Pyrenees, or logging miles in Girona, Spain’s distinguished terrain welcomes riders of any ability, complete with breathtaking panoramic views and scenic mountain passes. Find your perfect Spain bike tour and join us as we uncover some of the best riding around. Also see: France Bike Tours | Italy Bike Tours | Europe Bike Tours

Spain Bike Tours

Andalucia Bike Tour

Active / Recreational

Dates

2023AprMayJun+2024AprMayJun+

From

$3799

PP

Description

If you’ve dreamed of Spain, you’ve dreamed of Andalucia. This is quintessential Spain. Andalucia is limestone peaks, white villages, spe…
- Rider Level:
  
  Active / Recreational
- Duration:
  
  6 days | 5 nights
- Trip Style:
  
  Signature
- Hotel Level:
  
  Combined
Spain Bike Tours

Andalucia Self-Guided Bike Tour

Active / Avid

Dates

2023MayJunSep+

From

$2499

PP

Description

If you’ve ever imagined yourself pedaling through the picturesque countryside of Spain, then Andalucia should be at the top of your list. Th…
- Rider Level:
  
  Active / Avid
- Duration:
  
  5 days | 4 nights
- Trip Style:
  
  Self-Guided
- Hotel Level:
  
  Explorer
Spain Bike Tours

Costa Brava Bike Tour

Active / Recreational

Dates

2023MaySepOct+2024AprMayJun+

From

$5399

PP

Description

Ocean breezes. Mediterranean views. Beachfront luxury. Welcome to cycling in Costa Brava. On the alluring Mediterranean shoreline, where the…
- Rider Level:
  
  Active / Recreational
- Duration:
  
  6 days | 5 nights
- Trip Style:
  
  Signature
- Hotel Level:
  
  Luxury
Spain Bike Tours

Girona 3-Day Weekend Self-Guided Bike Tour

Active

Dates

Coming soon…

From

Prices Coming Soon

Description

Join Trek Travel for a weekend cycling itinerary designed to showcase the best of Girona’s terrain, with riding options suitable for cycl. ..
- Rider Level:
  
  Active
- Duration:
  
  3 days | 2 nights
- Trip Style:
  
  Self-Guided
- Hotel Level:
  
  Explorer
Spain Bike Tours

Girona and Costa Brava Self-Guided Bike Tour

Active

Dates

2023AprMayJun+

From

$1499

PP

Description

Take yourself to the heart of Catalonia and the cycling capital of the world. The vibrant town of Girona offers a unique setting for bicycle…
- Rider Level:
  
  Active
- Duration:
  
  5 days | 4 nights
- Trip Style:
  
  Self-Guided
- Hotel Level:
  
  Explorer
Spain Bike Tours

Girona Gravel Bike Tour

Avid

Dates

2023OctNov2024MarAprOct+

From

$1799

PP

Description

Discover why Girona is a cycling gem. There’s a reason why the world’s pros call it home, with butter-smooth tarmac and perfect weather. But…
- Rider Level:
  
  Avid
- Duration:
  
  5 days | 4 nights
- Trip Style:
  
  Gravel
- Hotel Level:
  
  Explorer
Spain Bike Tours

Girona 4-Day Ride Camp Bike Tour

Active / Avid

Dates

2023AprMayOct+2024FebMarApr+

From

$1599

PP

Description

Join us, and pedal the same legendary cycling roads as practically every top world tour pro has done, as we gaze out on the crystal blue Med…
- Rider Level:
  
  Active / Avid
- Duration:
  
  4 days | 3 nights
- Trip Style:
  
  Ride Camp
- Hotel Level:
  
  Explorer
Spain Bike Tours

Girona 7-Day Ride Camp Bike Tour

Active / Avid

Dates

2023AprMayOct+2024FebMarApr+

From

$1999

PP

Description

Pro cyclists can live anywhere in the world. So why do so many of them choose Girona? Here’s your chance to find out. Join us, and pedal the…
- Rider Level:
  
  Active / Avid
- Duration:
  
  7 days | 6 nights
- Trip Style:
  
  Ride Camp
- Hotel Level:
  
  Explorer
Spain Bike Tours

Mallorca Island Bike Tour

Active

Dates

2023SepOct2024MaySepOct

From

$6299

PP

Description

The sun-kissed island of Mallorca has long been a European vacation hotspot. Here, the blue Mediterranean Sea laps up against snow-white san…
- Rider Level:
  
  Active
- Duration:
  
  6 days | 5 nights
- Trip Style:
  
  Reserve
- Hotel Level:
  
  Ultimate Luxury
Spain Bike Tours

Mallorca 4-Day Ride Camp Bike Tour

Active / Avid

Dates

2023MayAprOct+2024JanFebMar+

From

$1599

PP

Description

Our Mallorca Ride Camp captures the essence of a true cyclist’s paradise. The hotel, a restored manor house, sits upon 370 acres of incredib…
- Rider Level:
  
  Active / Avid
- Duration:
  
  4 days | 3 nights
- Trip Style:
  
  Ride Camp
- Hotel Level:
  
  Explorer
Spain Bike Tours

Mallorca 7-Day Ride Camp Bike Tour

Active / Avid

Dates

2023AprMayOct+2024JanFebMar+

From

$1999

PP

Description

Our Mallorca Ride Camp captures the essence of a true cyclist’s paradise. The hotel, a restored manor house, sits upon 370 acres of incredib…
- Rider Level:
  
  Active / Avid
- Duration:
  
  7 days | 6 nights
- Trip Style:
  
  Ride Camp
- Hotel Level:
  
  Explorer
Spain Bike Tours

Pyrenees Sea to Sea Bike Tour

Avid

Dates

2023Aug2024Aug

From

$6399

PP

Description

Conquer majestic mountain passes and relive epic race battles as you pedal across the Pyrenees from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean. With …
- Rider Level:
  
  Avid
- Duration:
  
  10 days | 9 nights
- Trip Style:
  
  Cross Country
- Hotel Level:
  
  Explorer
Spain Bike Tours

Rioja Wine Country Bike Tour

Active

Dates

2023JulAug

From

$1899

PP

Description

You’ve probably heard of Rioja, because it is Spain’s biggest and best-selling wine appellation, but you may not realize that it is also a…
- Rider Level:
  
  Active
- Duration:
  
  5 days | 4 nights
- Trip Style:
  
  Discover
- Hotel Level:
  
  Explorer
Spain Bike Tours

Tour de France: The Grand Depart Ultimate VIP Team and Race Access

Active

Dates

2023Jun

From

$8999

PP

Description

Join us to celebrate the 110th edition of the Tour de France, where Trek Travel proudly presents the ultimate Tour de France 2023 experience. ..
- Rider Level:
  
  Active
- Duration:
  
  6 days | 5 nights
- Trip Style:
  
  Pro Race
- Hotel Level:
  
  Luxury

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Cycling in Spain | spain.info

Woman on a bicycle in nature

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Biking and leisure are more than compatible in Spain. Whether you want to cycle between sightseeing trips or want to explore the area in a few hours, in Spain you will find specially designed routes, bike tour companies and bike rental companies.

Go to my bookmarks

WHY SPAIN?

The pleasant Spanish climate makes it possible to enjoy cycling almost all year round. In Spain you will find trails surrounded by natural landscapes, suitable for all skill levels. The spectacular scenery along the roads is truly worth the trip. In fact, Spain is the country with the most biosphere reserves (53), has 16 national parks, and some of the most beautiful and well-marked trails in Europe (like the Way of St. James, where you can even use free hostels). There are many routes to destinations of cultural and gastronomic interest. Spain has many charming and very quiet towns where you can cycle (both on the coast and inland).

Cycling on the streets of Valencia

Turismo Valencia

SUITABLE SEASONS

You can cycle all year round, but be aware that it can be quite hot in summer in some parts of Spain (temperatures often exceed 35ºC). Many cyclists prefer to travel during the low season (skipping July and August) when there are fewer people on the slopes .

ROUTE TYPES

– Greenways: More than 3,200 kilometers of old rail lines have been converted into cycling routes. More than 120 routes are waiting for you to choose from, of various lengths (from 1 to 100 kilometers). Visit the official website. – Dirt roads in nature: in the whole of Spain, these roads have more than 10,300 kilometers. Here you will come across old railway tracks, canals, shepherd’s trails, hiking trails… GPS can be downloaded on the official website for some routes. – EuroVelo Routes: Many sections of Spain’s Mediterranean area are well suited for cycling. This is partly due to the EuroVelo 8 route which runs from Cadiz to Athens and has a length of about 5400 kilometers. – In addition to all these routes, you will find other types of trails suitable for cycling – rural roads, etc. – If you are going to travel for several days, use the trunk case, which is very relevant today. If you’re using a hybrid bike that’s prepared to carry luggage, you’ll be able to take everything you need with you.

Greenway in Tajuna Community of Madrid

Vias Verdes

TERRITORIES

There are especially famous routes in the field of cycling tourism. Here are just a few examples: – Way of St. James: different routes that end at the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela (Galicia), such as the French Way, the Primitive Way, the English Way and others. If you’d like, you can watch our report “On the Way of St. James by Bicycle”. – Path of the Cid: The route takes us in the footsteps of Cid Campeador through the following regions: Castile and León, Castile-La Mancha, Aragon and Valencia. – Channel of Castile: is an ancient river navigation route and one of the most attractive routes in Castile and León.

Cycling the Way of St. James

Tips & Tricks

TIPS

– In Spain, cyclists are generally prohibited from traveling on motorways (signs do not indicate otherwise). – Regulations require that cyclists wear reflective clothing at night and in tunnels and that front and rear lights be visible from a distance of 50 meters. – If you decide to go on a bike tour, before coming to Spain (and especially if you are going to ride long or difficult routes) you can contact the specialized federation in your country with a request to extend the insurance coverage to Spain or, if necessary, obtain insurance a policy covering medical care and civil liability. – If you are flying to Spain by plane and want to bring your bike, it must be properly packed. Some airlines charge extra for bicycles. The same applies to intercity bus companies. Please bear this in mind before purchasing your tickets. – If you are traveling by train, according to the rules of the National Network of Spanish Railways (RENFE), if bicycles exceed the dimensions for hand luggage, they are allowed to be transported on high-speed trains, long-distance trains and regional domestic trains under the following conditions: The bicycle is folded or disassembled and carried inside a bag with a maximum dimension of 120 x 90 x 40 cm (length – height – width). The pedals must be removed and the handlebars rotated 90°. For information on cycling opportunities, please contact your local tourist information office or the cycling federation. You can also visit the website of the Spanish Cycling Federation. Due to the fact that recommendations and regulations may change, we recommend that you check all requirements before you travel.

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Additional information

Spain Bike Tours Spain View Bike Tours (10)

Traveler’s Choice

Activities are ordered according to Tripadvisor, including reviews, ratings, photos and popularity.
Traveler Rating

Top Tripadvisor Traveler-rated Attractions

All Attractions

7 most incredible bike touring routes

1. Ruta De La Plata (The Silver Route)

2. Camino de Santiago

3. Mallorca Coast to Coast

Tour Recommendation For a Day on the Bike on Mallorca:

4. The Way of El Cid

5. Vía Verde (de la Sierra)

6. Col de Puymorens

7.

EuroVelo Cycling Routes in Spain

Pin for Later

Spain Bike Tours – Cycling & Bike Trips in Spain

Explore Spain by Bike

Experience a sun-drenched Spain bike tour.

Andalucia Bike Tour

Dates

From

$3799

Description

Rider Level:

Duration:

Trip Style:

Hotel Level:

Andalucia Self-Guided Bike Tour

Dates

From

$2499

Description

Rider Level:

Duration:

Trip Style:

Hotel Level:

Costa Brava Bike Tour

Dates

From

$5399

Description

Rider Level:

Duration:

Trip Style:

Hotel Level:

Girona 3-Day Weekend Self-Guided Bike Tour

Dates

From

Prices Coming Soon

Description

Rider Level:

Duration:

Trip Style:

Hotel Level:

Girona and Costa Brava Self-Guided Bike Tour

Dates

From

$1499

Description

Rider Level:

Duration:

Trip Style:

Hotel Level:

Girona Gravel Bike Tour

Dates

From

$1799

Description

Rider Level:

Duration:

Trip Style:

Hotel Level:

Girona 4-Day Ride Camp Bike Tour

Dates

From

$1599

Description

Rider Level:

Duration:

Trip Style:

Hotel Level:

Girona 7-Day Ride Camp Bike Tour

Dates

From