Málaga, nestled along Spain’s famous Costa del Sol, is an increasingly popular cycling destination that offers something for everyone—from seasoned riders to beginners looking to explore the region’s diverse terrain. While the city is best known for its challenging mountain routes that attract experienced cyclists, it also offers a variety of gentler paths that cater to different skill levels.
The area boasts a variety of climbs that cater to different preferences and skill levels. From short, steep ascents to long, steady climbs, Málaga has it all. Natural parks like the Montes de Málaga and the nearby Sierras de Tejeda in Axarquia are home to routes that challenge even the fittest cyclists, with tough gradients and technical descents. Climbs like the Puerto del León, El Torcal and Puerto del Sol offer a mix of difficulty and stunning views, attracting those looking for serious training or adventure.
Yet Málaga isn’t just for the seasoned cyclist. The city’s flat, coastal promenade offers more relaxed routes perfect for beginners or leisure cyclists wanting to enjoy seaside views. Further inland, rolling hills, olive groves, and quiet country roads offer intermediate riders scenic routes with varying difficulty levels.
The infrastructure supports all types of cyclists with good roads, lots of cafes, rental shops and guided tours available throughout the region. Málaga’s climate is ideal for cycling most of the year, although summers can be hot, making the spring and autumn months especially popular, and even the winter months are doable. With its combination of challenging climbs, scenic rides, and rich cultural experiences, Málaga truly offers something for every type of cyclist.
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Best time to visit
Málaga has a Mediterranean climate, which means it enjoys mild winters and hot summers. The best time to visit for cycling is during the spring (May - June) and autumn (September to November) months when temperatures are more moderate, although don't be surprised to find some days in the 30s°C. These seasons also offer less tourist traffic, making it easier to enjoy the roads and trails.
The Summer months are hot, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C. The roads are also clogged with tourists (both local and foreign) unexperienced in driving in the mountains, making riding out a little more hazardous. Your best bet is to head out early in the morning - preferrably well before 7AM.
Winter is very mild, making this a great winter destination, but it can be cold in the mountains. Bring layers of clothes as it can get quite warm during the day, but temperatures drop significantly in the evening and at higher altitudes.
Spring is traditionally quite wet, so be prepared for some rain, but it is also a good time to see the countryside in full bloom.
Road
Depart from Málaga capital
The classic loop: Puerto del León
A punchy ride through the Montes de Málaga with more than 1000m of elevation gain in less than 50 km.
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Casabarmeja - Colmenar
The road of the 1000 turns to Casabermeja is the perfect training climb.
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Almogía - Villanueva
A wonderful loop of the Embalse de Casasola.
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Bacalao
One of the easiest loops around in the around with a gentle climb in the middle of the course.
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Ruta de la pasa
Ride a part of the route of the raisins, one of the primary agricultural products of the area.
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El Torcal
The popular El Torcal park, famous for its pancake-shaped rocks, is also home to some proper climbing, from whatever direction you're approaching it.
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El Torcal (via La Joya)
One of the alternative routes to go around El Torcal park. This course passes through the village of La Joya, 'The Jewel'.
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Puerto del Sol
One of the most beautiful and quiet climbs in all of Andalucía.
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Down the Axarquia valley
Up the Puerto del León, down the Axarquía valley and back via the coastal road.
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The coastal road
The only flat road you'll find this area. And yet, despite being flat, you somehow accumulate 250m of elevation.
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Boquete de Zafarraya
The dramatic entrance to the Málaga province from Granada.
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The route of the (lesser known) Villanuevas
Crossing the Montes de Málaga, you enter a new world with villages like Villanueva de Cauche, del Rosario, and del Trabuco.
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Cútar
Tucked away in a little corner of the hills is the sleepy village of Cútar, which happens to have a road that is the perfect training climb.
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Comares
The balcony of Axarquia towers over the area. When you an eagle's nest like yet, you know what that means: climbing!
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Depart from Ronda
Puerto del Viento
Wonderful climb of the Puerto del Viento with vultures as your only company.
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Puerto de las Palomas
Spectacular ride featuring the famous Puerto de las Palomas climb and passing through the picturesque village of Grazalema.
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Depart from Estepona
White villages of Estepona
Loop of the white villages of Estepona, a beautiful ride through the Andalusian countryside with stunning views and charming villages.
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Gravel
Depart from Málaga capital
Parque del Guadalhorce - Airport route
The easiest route you'll find in the area. Ideal for a quick relaxing or recovery ride to escape the city.
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Montes de Málaga: Picapedreros route
A welcome escape from the chaos of the city, this route takes you through the Montes de Málaga Natural Park.
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Depart from Axarquía
Vía Verde de la Axarquía
One of the most beautiful loops you can do by gravel or MTB in the entire province of Málaga.
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Where to stay
Housing and rental prices have soared the last few years, and people all around the country have been protesting regularly against holiday rentals, a major contributor to the housing crisis. As an outsider, I can report that it has gotten out of control, indeed. People are struggling to pay rent and are forced to live further away in search of more affordable accommodation. You can do your part by staying in a hotel instead of an apartment.
Only You Hotel Málaga (€€€)
This is one of the best hotels I've stayed at in Spain. It's also one of the most expensive ones. The location cannot be beaten, across Calle Larios, the most famous street in all of Málaga.
Parador de Malaga Gibralfaro (€€€)
Paradors are state-run luxury hotels, and it's often a historical building. This one has a kick-ass view over the city and the Mediterranean.
AC Hotel Malaga Palacio (€€€)
Contender for the best views in the city, looking out on the Alcazaba and Gibralfaro.
Hotel Ibis Málaga Centro Ciudad (€)
It's an Ibis hotel, so you know what to expect. A no-frills hotel chain for those on a tighter budget. Location is great, just on the other side of the canal.
All routes
| Name | Distance (km) | Elevation (m) |
|---|---|---|
| Sierra de Tejeda | 170 | 2800 |
| Puerto del Sol | 120 | 2400 |
| White villages of Estepona | 98 | 2345 |
| The route of the (lesser known) Villanuevas | 130 | 2200 |
| Puerto de las Palomas | 100 | 2115 |
| El Torcal (via La Joya) | 120 | 2100 |
| El Torcal | 150 | 2000 |
| Boquete de Zafarraya | 140 | 1900 |
| Down the Axarquia valley | 110 | 1800 |
| Cútar | 114 | 1800 |
| Comares | 95 | 1700 |
| Casabarmeja - Colmenar | 75 | 1400 |
| Puerto del Viento | 60 | 1236 |
| Almogía - Villanueva | 83 | 1200 |
| Vía Verde de la Axarquía | 55 | 1150 |
| The classic loop: Puerto del León | 50 | 1050 |
| Montes de Málaga: Picapedreros route | 50 | 1050 |
| Ruta de la pasa | 80 | 900 |
| Bacalao | 70 | 700 |
| The coastal road | 60 | 250 |
| Parque del Guadalhorce - Airport route | 38 | 111 |
Tips
* On the Paseo Marítimo, you are allowed to ride on the road. It's safer than to ride on the sidewalk.
* It is forbidden to ride in the historic center.
* Do not wear earbuds. They're illegal and the police will fine you when they catch you.
* You are allowed to ride in columns of 2 riders. Some roads are narrow and it might be difficult for drivers to overtake you, so be respectful to them and they'll reciprocate.
* It is mandatory for road cyclists to wear a crash helmet.
* Some places are remote and may not always have mobile coverage and you might find it difficult to call a taxi, so bring your spares with you.
* If possible, ride during the week and avoid weekends when the roads are busier.