Andalusia
"The White Villages"
Cycling in this part of Spain is fascinating for the influence of the Moors which dates back to 900AD. The rich history of Andalusia, the spectacular and rugged terrain and biker friendly people of Spain make this a great place to ride. This part of Andalusia is mountainous and the route has been put together to get you to great spots and great views. Total climbing, some optional, is 24,500 feet.
Day 1 - Malaga
Fly into Malaga and check out the vibrant nature of this old, yet cosmopolitan city. Visit the Gilbrafaro and spend some time in one of the many great cafés situated in the City's many plazas. We book a hotel near all the action so you can get a feel for the City. Dinner is on your own this night so you are free explore.
Day 2 - Malaga to Ronda
We'll get you away from the traffic of Malaga via a short and pleasant train ride to the small town of Alora where you will meet up with your bike. The first day takes you through orange and lemon groves and then the spectacular and surreal gorge of the Guadalhorce River near El Chorro. We ride on to Ronda where old and new Ronda are perched on either side of the 100 meter deep El Tajo Gorge. The bridge over the Gorge is a history lesson. The Arab baths are fascinating.
Day 3 -Ronda to Grazalema
We take a loopy route that ends with a great climb up a brand new, silky smooth road thru Zahara on the way to Grazalema. Grazalema is a picture postcard town of 2,300 with a beautiful plaza.
Day 4 - Grazalema to Arcos
We head west through some rolling countryside of wheat and sunflower fields to Arcos. Arcos sits on a ridge with big drops on either side. For a time in the 11th century Arcos was in independent Kingdom. You will understand how it was defended when you see it.
Day 5 - Arcos to Ubrique
We go south and then East to Ubrique through Grazalema National Park. The band of rugged mountains that comprises Andalusia has their beginnings here. We pass through a pastoral setting that comprises a good part of Cadiz Province. We stop in Ubrique which is known for its leather goods. Great place to pick up some gifts. You can try the climb right outside of town which frequently is part of the Vuelta a Espana. You are on your own for dinner here.
Day 6 - Ubrique to Gaucin
This is a tough climbing day. You have to go over two mountain ranges to get to Gaucin. Your reward is that you can see the rock of Gibraltar and then across the straits to Morocco. On a clear to today you can see both Rif and Atlas Mountain ranges in Morocco. Gaucin is known as the "balcony of Andalusia".
Day 7 -Gaucin to Malaga
We head down towards the coast. You descend a nice bunch of switchbacks today on the way towards Estepona. We'll get a lift to Estepona and then return to Malaga where we started. We'll enjoy the action in Malaga Saturday nite and then get you to the Airport for a Sunday departure. Dinner on your own but we usually all end up at El Tintero.
Included:
7 nites accommodations at hotels and inns
Breakfast and dinners (except dinner in Ubrique and first and last nites in Malaga)
Stocked support vehicle and driver
Excluded:
Lunches (can be had in local cafes for 6-10 euros)
Beer, wine booze
Entrance fees to museums, attractions
Airport Transfers
