Where to Ride in Granada - Lecrin Valley

The Goldilocks of Loops: Not Too Long, Not Too Short

This 87km Lecrin Valley loop is the perfect mid-week ride in the Sierra Nevada. It’s not too long, not too short—just right for a balanced mix of climbs, descents, and scenic beauty.

Ride Overview

The Lecrin Valley loop combines some of our favorite climbs, descents, and Pueblos Blancos. It’s a blend of two routes from the book: La Venta and Around the Reservoir. This ride offers a little bit of everything, making it a standout choice for cyclists.

The Initial Climb: Vélez to Venta de la Cabada

The ride wastes no time, throwing you straight into the climb to Venta de la Cabada. From there, it twists back down the mountain to Pinos del Valle, a town famous for its churches, orange groves, and olive presses. At kilometer 24.5, just as you enter the town, you’ll find a fountain on the left side of the road—a popular spot for locals to fill their bottles.

Lanjarón: The Town of Eternal Youth

Past Lecrin, the road drops toward Beznar, then levels out with a couple of short 2-kilometer climbs to Lanjarón. Known as the town of eternal youth, Lanjarón is recognized by the World Health Organization for having the highest life expectancy in the world. It’s a great place to refill your bottles and grab a tostada. With 23 fountains, each accompanied by a carved poem, you won’t struggle to find water here.

Descending to Órgiva: Gateway to the Alpujarras

After descending toward Órgiva, the gateway to the Alpujarras, you’ll see why it’s known for its “alternative communities.” Combs appear to be in short supply, and the men seem to have a deep distrust of barbers. If you’re up for more, this is the perfect spot to tackle the stunning climb to Canar.

The Final Stretch: Back to Vélez

Once you cross the bridge at the bottom of Órgiva, the road stair-steps back down toward Vélez. This section offers fast, exhilarating stretches that make you feel alive, wrapping up the ride on a high note.

A Ride That Demands Little but Gives Much

This loop is a perfect slice of the Sierra Nevada—demanding little but giving much in return. It’s a ride that showcases the best of the region, leaving you with a sense of accomplishment and joy.

KEY RIDE KIT

Fast and Furious? More like fat and furious! You may think you’re fast, but there’s no way you’ll ever look as fast as our Patrón next to an “Alpujarra Racing” Seat. Stay cool in one of our lightweight cycling jerseys, built for long ascents under the Andalusian sun.

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The Climbs of Granada & The Sierra Nevada

The climbs of the Sierra Nevada may not be the most well known, but they are undoubtedly some of the best in Europe. Most tend to exclusively consider the likes of Mallorca or Girona for their cycling holiday/training camps. While these are all great options, the Sierra Nevada matches and even outdoes each of the aforementioned

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other rides in granada & the sierra nevada

Sunshine, solid climbs, perfectly engineered roads, the Mediterranean and a local community tuned into the needs of the visiting cyclist.

Contact Information

Cycle Sierra Nevada
Calle Mariana Pineda 13 b,
Vélez de Benaudalla, AL, 18670, Spain

Phone: +34 684205648
Email: info@sierranevada.cc

Let’s make your next cycling adventure one you’ll never forget!