Where To Ride in Granada - Polopos

The Challenge of La Quapa to Haza del Lino

One of the most demanding climbs is La Quapa to Haza del Lino via Polopos—a ride that promises a memorable day on the bike. Haza del Lino can be reached via eight equally tough routes, and the Polopos ascent is just as challenging and stunning as the others.

Route Overview

This 92km loop has it all: a mix of climbing, descending, and scenic stretches. The ride kicks off with an immediate climb to La Gorgoracha, followed by a descent into Motril and a cruise along the coast road. With a tailwind, the kilometers fly by, and by the 32km mark, it’s worth stopping at Caferini, an authentic Spanish bar in Castell de Ferro, for their unbeatable €2.50 tostadas—some of the best in Andalucia.

The Main Climb: Sea Level to 1,280m

Now fueled up, it’s time for a 16.5km climb from sea level to 1,280m. The relentless start tests your resolve, but once you find your rhythm in the switchbacks, the gradient eases, letting you settle into the grind. After a left turn through Polopos, the climb continues to Haza del Lino, where a cold drink awaits at Restaurante Haza Del Lino (km 57).

The Descent and Final Push

A short push takes you to the summit, then it’s all downhill to Vélez. Enjoy the fast descent along Sierra de Lújar, bypass Órgiva, and tackle a few rolling hills before cruising home.

Why This Route Stands Out

This route stands out because most of the climbing is concentrated in one main ascent rather than spread over rolling hills. After covering flat(ish) ground along the coast between Motril and Castell de Ferro, you’ll tackle a climb, a descent, and then finish. Over half the ride’s elevation gain comes in the single climb from the coast to Haza del Lino. The upside? Once you reach the top, the hard work is done, and you can enjoy a well-earned freewheel back!

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.

BUY THE LOOK

the route’s main Climb

Starting near the coast in the ironically named village of La Guapa (The Pretty One). Ironic as the village is far from pretty, but don't let that put you off as you climb the view improves a lot (apologies to any of the residents of La Guapa that may read this)…

READ ON

strava route MAP

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!