GRANADA RIDE GUIDE
Heading to Spain’s hidden cycling gem? Here’s all you need to know...
Granada is one of Spain’s best-kept cycling secrets—a destination where high-altitude challenges meet the laid-back charm of the Costa Tropical. Nestled at the foot of the Sierra Nevada and only 10 km from the sun-drenched coast, Velez de Benaudalla is your gateway to a diverse network of roads and routes. With new adventures around every bend, you’ll never have to ride the same road twice.
Why Ride in Granada?
Granada offers an irresistible mix of rugged mountain climbs, scenic coastal escapes, and historic rural landscapes. Enjoy world-class climbs such as Pico Veleta—the highest paved road in Europe—while also relishing gentler rides along the Costa Tropical. The region’s unique microclimate means that while Granada city and the ski resorts of the Sierra can be cold in winter, our base in Velez de Benaudalla stays mild and sunny year-round. This is one of the few spots in Europe blessed with a subtropical climate, where mango and avocado trees flourish, boasting over 320 days of sunshine annually.
CYCLE SIERRA NEVADA is nestled in Vélez de Benaudalla, where you’ll find a curated selection of cycling gear, premium BMC bike rentals, and expertly crafted café con leche. Positioned at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains and just moments from the Costa Tropical, it serves as your launchpad for road and gravel adventures.
road rides ———
Grab our pre-planned road rides starting and ending at Vélez de Bendaudalla. Experience Granada’s mix of iconic climbs and hidden gems—all ready for your Wahoo or Garmin.
gravel rides ———
Explore Granada off the beaten track with our gravel rides. Navigate through quiet back roads, historic villages, and striking natural landscapes.
TREVELEZ
Spain’s highest town, famed for his Iberian ham or as we call it Hamsterdam. A bucket list ride…
THE GOAT’S PATH
A must do ride for anyone that visits Granada. Resist the urge to turn around at the top…
CAMINO DE CUATRO SIERRAS
Check out our packing tour around the four mountains of the Sierra Nevada
VIEW THE RIDE
CAMINO DE CUATRO SIERRAS
Check out our packing tour around the four mountains of the Sierra Nevada
VIEW THE RIDE
THE CLIMBS to the SOUTH OF GRANADA ———
When the Sierra Nevada is mentioned, thoughts often turn to the snow-capped heights of Pico Veleta, famed for its high-altitude challenges and pro-training camps. Yet, just south of the mountain lies a hidden realm of climbs catering to riders seeking something different. South of Granada, on the gentler slopes of the Sierra’s southern side and along the undulating coastal mountains, riders find routes that remain inviting all year round. From our base, all the climbs listed on our site are within easy reach—rideable in every season thanks to the temperate climate of the Costa Tropical. Just as Mallorca is more than Sa Calobra, the Sierra Nevada offers a diverse range of climbs accessible throughout the year.
cycle sierra nevada kit ———
The right gear makes all the difference. Our CSN Cycling Kit offers exceptional breathability, durability, and comfort—ideal for everything from mountain training sessions to leisurely coffee spins. Equip yourself with gear that’s as dynamic as Granada itself.
A Cyclist’s Guide to Granada’s Climate —
Although winter in Granada and the high Sierra Nevada can be harsh, life on the southern side is a different story. Nestled just 100 meters above sea level and only a short distance from the Costa Tropical, this area enjoys a sub-tropical climate with nearly 320 days of sunshine a year—resulting in mild winters.
strava route MAP
1 - THE ROUTEs
Get all the routes and GPX files for your Garmin, Wahoo or other device
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STRAVA LINK
2 - RENT AND RIDE
Skip the hassle—book your BMC Roadmachine or Teammachine online now with Cycle Sierra Nevada. We’ll have your bike ready when you arrive, with bike delivery to Málaga and Granada. Just want to ride? Join one of our guided tours and soak up the scenery while we take care of the rest.
3 - THE STORE
Our store is located just 50 minutes from Málaga and 30 minutes from Granada. More importantly, we're only minutes away from incredible riding. Drop by for top-quality bike rentals, gear, or expert advice . Whether you're looking for route recommendations, a fresh coffee, or a place to talk cycling, you'll find a warm welcome here.
You can find us at:
Calle Mariana Pineda 13 B, 18670 Velez de Benaudalla, Granada
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.
Lujar Coastal Loop
A good mix of coastal riding beside the Mediterranean, challenging climbing and flowing descents. continue…
haza Del Lino via Polopos
Possibly to be one of most challenging climbs in the area, but there’s a bar at the top and the views are worth it. continue…
Trevélez
Trevélez a town famed for it’s jamón and it’s claim to be the highest village in Spain or as we like to call it Hamsterdam. continue…
Practical ———
how to arrive
Granada is accessible via several convenient options: Granada Airport offers good connections to Spanish cities like Madrid and Palma de Mallorca. Malaga Airport provides a broader range of international flights. In addition, visitors can travel by train from cities such as Madrid, Barcelona, and Sevilla or take a bus. (tickets available via Renfe and alsa.es).
Cycle Sierra Nevada provides convenient airport transfers from Malaga International Airport,
WHERE TO STAY
Where you base yourself will shape your riding experience. Cycle Sierra Nevada offers cycling-friendly accommodation in Velez de Benaudalla. This picturesque town provides immediate access to the best cycling areas, including the Costa Tropical, the Alpujarras, and the Lecrín Valley. Also recommended would be La Ventera, a cyclist-friendly hotel in Gualchos.
For more information on where to stay, see the Andalucia Turist Board website.
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!