Best Cycling Routes
in Spain

Cycling holidays in Spain have grown in popularity with many choosing to cycle here for its gentle terrain, luscious landscapes, gorgeous weather… and let’s not forget the fabulous food! Spain’s cities are famously bike-friendly full of car-free paths, leafy, sun-dabbled routes and smooth gradients. Its spectacular cycling scene has left visitors and locals alike delighted to pedal through the best cycling routes in Spain.

Away from the hustle and bustle of the urban sprawl, find an oasis of secluded cycle paths that lead you through pine-scented forests, undiscovered villages and past fluttering butterflies. Camouflaged in the Spanish countryside is an extensive network of cycling paths made from old railway tracks called Las Vías Verdes (The Greenways).

These cycle routes snake through the rolling landscape offering a rare view of Spain in its authentic, untouched state. Over 133 Vías Verdes span the country and some of the best cycling routes in Spain can be found among them. Their gentle gradients and stunning surroundings make them loved by so many, despite their humble beginnings as decommissioned train lines.

We’ve put a list together of some of the best cycling routes in Spain so you can follow some of these beloved bike paths for yourself.

La Rioja – Logroño to San Millán de la Cogolla

It’s no surprise that, in the region of Rioja, people live and breathe wine! The deep red wine which we all know and love has shaped the landscape and culture for centuries. The region of Rioja not only boasts over 500 wineries but is also traversed by one of the oldest pilgrimages in the world, the Camino de Santiago.

The cycling route from Logroño to San Millán de la Cogolla best showcases this rich cultural and historical heritage in its most authentic form. Following the Camino de Santiago path, you’ll dip into a stretch of vineyards whose emerald vines stretch as far as the eye can see. As you pedal through quaint sandstone villages, you’ll arrive at the village of Ventosa, which has stood as a refuge for pilgrims for hundreds of years. This area of natural beauty, skirted by the River Ebro plains, is the perfect spot for a break. The route then takes you through the medieval towns of Nájera, Codovin, and Villar de Torre before reaching the majestic monasteries in San Millan de Cogolla. Discover Yuso and Suso monasteries, the birthplace of the Spanish language, or head to a local bodega to sample some delicious red wine and Riojan culinary delights.

Catalonia – Olot to Girona

Known for its diverse landscape of striking mountains, emerald countryside and miles of beautiful coastline, Catalonia is truly a Softies dream. Many Vía Verdes weave through this region dramatically cutting through rocks, bridges and mountainscapes whilst maintaining a gentle gradient. This allows you to explore soaring land formations without breaking a sweat. One of the best cycling routes in Spain must be the ride from Olot to Girona in Catalonia. El Carilet Greenway trail descends smoothly into the valleys of the Fluvià, Brugent and Ter rivers full of gorgeous countryside towns and glistening pasturelands. Further on the narrow-gauge railway route leads to one of the most beautiful cities in the whole of Spain, Girona. As well as delicious Catalan cuisine, this city is home to shining buildings, cobbled streets and shimmering waters.

Mallorca – Round Trip to Algaida

Mallorca is perhaps best known for its sparkling beaches and high-rise hotels. However many don’t realise that, away from the tourist crowds, the rustic Mallorcan countryside is a paradise for cyclists. Full of quiet country lanes, discover a land of orange and lemon groves, colourful wildflowers and hidden villages.

Cycle the round-trip route from Algaida to experience the purest form of Mallorcan authenticity. For those looking for local cuisine, this ride is the one for you. Algaida is a small sandstone town with narrow streets, vibrant green shutters and a delightful central square. As you ride out into the unspoilt countryside, spot old windmills which dominate the skyline. Continue further to the colourful market town of Sineu. Watch as locals scrabble for their weekly shop amongst juicy stalls of fresh produce. Why not taste some Mallorcan delicacies here before heading to Montuiri. The sleepy hilltop village of Montuiri has old medieval houses, rural charm and stunning panoramic views.

Valencia – Biar to Bocairent

Valencia is a region of beautiful contrasts – coastal cultural and mountainous backdrops, modernist architecture and historic wonders, a passion for celebration and a laidback lifestyle … this region has it all. Cycle between the towns of Biar and Bocairent on the Vía Verde which runs through the countryside. You’ll pass bright fruit tree orchards and tiny villages as you approach the settlement of Banyeres de Mariola. Follow the flat terrain towards the Paraje Natural de la Sierra de Mariola, a place of breathtaking natural phenomena and stunning varieties of flora and fauna. Eventually, you’ll reach Bocairent, an old medieval town that offers picturesque ruins, elegant fountains and steep cobbled lanes. Enveloped in the most beautiful setting, this is one of the best cycling routes in Spain.

Extremadura – Plasencia to Monfragüe National Park

Near the Portuguese border, much of Extremadura’s landscape is yet to be discovered by tourists. This region has a small population with large areas of forest and natural parks, the home of traditional agricultural practices and spectacular bird life. Take the cycling route from Plasencia to Monfragüe National Park to explore this region’s wealth of wildlife and plants. As you cycle south towards the Tajo River, you’ll enter the national park. A well-known spot for bird-watching enthusiasts where you can find rare black vultures and black storks. Clusters of cork and oak trees, border luscious farmland dedicated to raising Spain’s infamous wild bulls and the black ibérico pig. Ever tried Spain’s tasty jamón ibérico?

Segovia – Collado Hermoso to Pedraza

In the foothills of the Sierra de Guadarrama Mountain Range, enjoy the remarkable beauty of Segovia. Its medieval towns are teemed with enchanting stonehouses and surrounded by peaceful countryside. Set off from Collado Hermoso. After a ride through small villages and wooded landscapes, you’ll arrive at the wonderfully preserved town of Pedraza. You’ll spot the hilltop castles reigning over Pedraza’s quaint, cobbled streets and unique artisan shops. As one of Spain’s most beautiful walled cities, there is a photo opportunity around every corner.

For more information about our cycling holidays in Spain, give us a call on 020 3432 1540.