Book with Confidence: Enjoy peace of mind — your 20% deposit is fully refundable up to 60 days before departure. See terms & conditions.

Self-Guided Granada to Costa del Sol Bike Tour

This weeklong cycling trip from Granada to Marbella is a fun and scenic way to explore southern Spain at your own pace. Starting in the historic city of Granada, home to the stunning Alhambra, the route winds through rolling hills, olive groves, and charming whitewashed villages before reaching the Mediterranean coast in Marbella.

Each day brings a new view, from quiet mountain roads to sunny coastal paths. The tour is self-guided, so you’ll get detailed maps, GPS tracks, and luggage transfers while enjoying the freedom to stop wherever you like. Most nights are spent in comfortable accommodations with breakfast included.

It’s a great mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation, ideal for travelers who enjoy cycling and want to experience authentic Andalusian landscapes without rushing. By the time you reach Marbella, you’ll have pedaled through some of Spain’s most beautiful and peaceful countryside.

Tour Type

Self-Guided

Lodging

Casual+ hotels

Start

Granada

Finish

Marbella

Level

moderate to challenging

Avg. Daily Distance

39 km / 24 mi

Cycling Days

7

Group size

Min. 2, Max. 12

Fly-In

Málaga Airport (AGP)

Fly-Out

Málaga Airport (AGP)

Highlights

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Explore Historic Granada and the Alhambra

Begin your journey in Granada, one of Spain’s most beautiful and culturally rich cities. Stroll through narrow Moorish streets, enjoy tapas in local bars, and take in the breathtaking views of the Alhambra Palace before starting your ride. It’s the perfect blend of history and atmosphere to kick off your Andalusian adventure.

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Cycle Through Andalusia’s Heartland

Pedal across scenic countryside filled with olive groves, rolling hills, and charming whitewashed villages. The route lets you experience authentic Andalusia at your own pace, far from the crowds, with the freedom to stop, explore, and take in every panoramic view.

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Discover Ronda and the Mountain Landscapes

One of the tour’s highlights is reaching Ronda, a stunning cliff-top town famous for its dramatic bridge and mountain views. The ride there is both challenging and rewarding, offering some of the most spectacular cycling in southern Spain.

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Finish by the Sea in Marbella

End your journey with the fresh sea breeze of Marbella’s Mediterranean coast. Celebrate your achievement with a walk along the beach, a dip in the sea, or a relaxing meal at a seaside café.

Itinerary

Brief Itinerary

Meals are indicated as B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner.

Listed hotels are subject to availability and may be replaced with similar alternatives of equal standard.

Detailed Itinerary

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Day 1: Granada

You arrive in the historic city of Granada and check into your hotel. Take the afternoon to wander through the old quarter, enjoy tapas in local bars and soak in the lively atmosphere. The tour is self-guided so you’ll get an orientation meeting, pick up your maps/road-book the next day, and have time to rest up. The evening is yours to explore the flamenco culture or simply watch the sunset over the hills.

Meals:
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Day 2: Loja

After breakfast you collect your bike and start riding out of Granada, descending through the Genil River valley toward rural landscapes. The route brings you past small whitewashed villages, olive groves and quiet country lanes. You’ll feel the change in terrain as the day unfolds, gradually moving from the city into Andalusian countryside.

As you approach Loja, the atmosphere shifts to a charming town in the foothills. You settle into your accommodation and maybe enjoy a relaxed evening in town.

Perfil Granada-Loja I (2).jpg

Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 67 km / 42 mi
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Day 3: Antequera

Begin with breakfast and set off from Loja toward the heart of Andalusia, heading to Antequera. The ride today is less extreme in length but still offers meaningful climbs and scenic reward. You’ll pass through olive groves, rustic landscapes and charming villages with time to pause for a break or photo. Arrival in Antequera gives you a chance to explore its historic centre and maybe the Dolmens site if you have time.

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Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 53 km / 33 mi
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Day 4: Caminito del Rey

Today’s ride is shorter, which lets you savour a real highlight: the dramatic pathway of El Caminito del Rey, perched high on cliff faces. After breakfast you pilot through mountain-fringed terrain, quiet roads and possibly take a walk along the Caminito (optional) to really soak in the wild scenery. It’s a contrast from motive fitness to pure landscape admiration.

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Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 32 km / 20 mi
Accommodation: Hotel La Garganta
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Day 5: Ronda

With your legs warmed up, today you ride into one of Andalusia’s most iconic towns: Ronda. After breakfast you tackle more challenging riding as the terrain becomes more mountainous and dramatic. Expect climbs, winding roads and sweeping vistas but also great rewards when you arrive in Ronda with its stunning gorge and historic architecture.

Perfil Caminito-Ronda I (2).jpg

Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 60 km / 37 mi
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Day 6: Marbella

Your final ride begins after breakfast in Ronda and descends toward the Mediterranean coast, ending in the resort town of Marbella. The contrast between mountainous interior and the sea is striking. You’ll likely ride down hills, pass scenic overlooks and enjoy the feeling of finishing at the coast. Arrival in Marbella means time to unwind, perhaps stroll the old town or sit by the sea.

Perfil Ronda-Marbella I (2).jpg

Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 59 km / 37 mi
Accommodation: Hotel Baviera
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Day 7: Marbella

After breakfast, your tour officially ends. You have time in Marbella to relax by the beach or explore the local town. The self-guided support ends here but you depart with memories of mountains, villages, and the sea. The nearest airport is in Malaga 60kms away.

Meals:

Ready to plan your adventure? Download a print-ready detailed itinerary.

Map

Accommodation

Each hotel has been thoughtfully selected to ensure an exceptional and memorable experience for guests. Should the listed hotel be unavailable, we will ensure an alternative of similar quality.

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Hotel Eurostars Puerta Real (4 Star)

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Hotel El Mirador (4 Star)

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Hotel Parador de Antequera (4 Star)

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Hotel La Garganta (3 Star)

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Hotel Parador de Ronda (4 Star)

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Hotel Baviera (3 Star)

Dates and Prices

Book with Confidence: Enjoy peace of mind — your 20% deposit is fully refundable up to 60 days before departure. See terms & conditions.

Single Supplement

From US $560

E-Bike Upgrade

From US $120



Couldn't find a trip with convenient dates?

Open your date as a join-in tour or customize further as a private one.


Essential Info

Inclusions

LODGING

All hotels as mentioned in the tour details or similar (subject to availability).

bike

Immaculately maintained bike with helmet, suited to a terrain.

Luggage Transfer

Transportation of luggage from one hotel to another.

meals

Meals as per itinerary. Guests are given the opportunity to dine on their own so that they discover a location independently.

Exclusions

Airport pickup

We recommend to book direclty from airport.

Airport drop

We recommend to book direclty from your last hotel.

Beverages

Beverages such as alcohol, tea, coffee, juice at a hotel or restaurant.

Gratuity

Gratuities for your guide team are not included in the trip price.

Bikes

When you have a road and the thrill of a journey ahead of you, it’s imperative to have a good bike to enjoy it. Our fleet majorly consist of the below bikes as a part of this tour. However, sometimes due to height or availability constraints, we may provide a different but similar quality bike.

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CORRATEC MTC Expert Trapez or similar

trekking

Included in your trip price

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CORRATEC ALLROAD Travel 1 or similar

gravel

Available at a surcharge

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BIANCHI T-Tronik C-Type or similar

ebike

Available at a surcharge

Arrival & Departure Details

ARRIVAL

Your tour begins in Granada, Spain, located in the Andalusian region. The nearest major airport is Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP), about 125 km (78 miles) away. From the airport, you can reach Granada in roughly 1.5 to 2 hours. The most convenient options are ALSA intercity buses, direct airport transfers, or car rentals available at Málaga Airport.

The ALSA bus to Granada operates several times a day, costing around 12–18 EUR per person. Taxis or private transfers are faster, costing approximately 130–150 EUR. Once in Granada, your hotel check-in and bike fitting will mark the start of your cycling adventure.

DEPARTURE

Your tour ends in Marbella, on Spain’s southern coast. The closest airport for your departure is again Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP), approximately 60 km (37 miles) away. The most common way to travel is by direct bus, private transfer, or taxi. ALSA buses run frequently from Marbella Bus Station to Málaga Airport, taking about 45–60 minutes and costing 8–12 EUR.

Taxis or private shuttles are quicker, with fares between 75–100 EUR depending on time of day and service. It’s recommended to book your transfer in advance, especially during high season, to ensure a smooth and timely journey home.

Weather

The best weather for cycling from Granada to Marbella is during spring (March–June) and autumn (September–November). During these months, temperatures range between 18–28°C (64–82°F), ideal for long rides without intense heat. Summer (July–August) can be very hot, often reaching 35–40°C (95–104°F), making midday cycling difficult.

Winter (December–February) is cooler, around 10–18°C (50–64°F), with some rain in higher areas. Overall, late spring and early autumn offer clear skies, warm days, and comfortable evenings which are perfect for both cycling and sightseeing.

January

Mixed

February

Mixed

March

Good

April

Best

May

Best

June

Good

July

Offseason

August

Offseason

September

Best

October

Best

November

Good

December

Mixed

Best

Good

Mixed

Offseason

What to Pack

Packing smart is essential for a safe and enjoyable cycling adventure. From essential biking gear to clothing and travel necessities, this guide ensures you're prepared for any terrain or climate.

Recommended Bicycling Clothes & Gear

  • Bicycling shoes or stiff-soled sneakers.
  • Padded cycling shorts.
  • Short-fingered cycling gloves (personal gloves are ideal).
  • Brightly colored cycling jerseys or synthetic T-shirts for visibility.
  • Synthetic cycling socks.
  • Sunglasses with UV protection.
  • Personal helmet (recommended even though provided).
  • Personal saddle (optional for added comfort).
  • Rain jacket or windbreaker.
  • Cycling water bottle (to reduce plastic waste).

Note: Helmets, gloves, and water bottles are personal items, so bringing your own is recommended for maximum comfort and hygiene.

Clothing

  • Light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
  • Full-sleeved clothing for sun protection.
  • Warm layers for chilly mornings and evenings (if traveling in winter).
  • Comfortable footwear for non-cycling time.
  • Bring a compact rain jacket in case of sudden weather changes.
  • Ethnic or modest clothing for exploring towns and temples.

Other Necessities

  • Toiletries: Basic hygiene essentials, including insect/mosquito repellent and sunscreen.
  • Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
  • Plug socket adaptor.
  • Binoculars for wildlife spotting or desert landscapes.

Pro Tips

  • Pack light but plan for the varying temperatures: warm days, chilly evenings, and desert winds.
  • Use brightly colored clothing for visibility on roads.
  • Pack light to leave room for shopping.

Luggage

Please limit your luggage to one medium-sized suitcase and one carry-on bag. Mark your luggage with your name, address, and phone number.

Visa Information

Before venturing on your adventure, make sure you're equipped with essential travel advice, including security updates, local laws, and crucial passport and visa information. Start by visiting the official government website of your home country for accurate and reliable guidance:

Note: Passport and visa regulations can change at any time. Stay proactive by checking for the latest updates to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.

Insurance

Medical insurance that covers medical costs in case of an accident during the trip is mandatory to participate in our tours.

We recommend to purchase adequate travel insurance in order to participate in our tours and protect yourself from unforeseen events. Our experience shows that guests who purchase travel insurance—including coverage for all activities on the itinerary, trip cancellation, interruption, delay, baggage damage, loss or theft, personal accident, death and repatriation costs, medical and emergency expenses (including Covid-19), and personal liability—travel with greater peace of mind.

Can I use my credit card insurance?

Yes, as long as it meets our requirements and provides adequate coverage. Ensure you have an emergency contact number and policy number available.

When should I buy travel insurance?

Purchase travel insurance as soon as you've paid in full or booked your flights.

Is proof of travel insurance required?

Yes. You must provide your insurer's name, policy number, and emergency contact via our reservation form. This is mandatory. If you cannot provide proof, you’ll need to purchase insurance before traveling with us.

Does Art of Bicycle Trips sell travel insurance?

We do not sell travel insurance directly, as we believe our customers should have the freedom to choose a policy that best suits their needs. However, we recommend Insured Nomads as a great starting point.

Frequently Asked Questions

We provide an app-based navigation system that includes all your daily routes, points of interest, and important trip notes. You can download the app to your phone in advance, and we’ll share your login details before your trip.

Yes. Once the routes are downloaded, the app works completely offline, so you don’t need mobile data while riding. You can even use it in airplane mode, which helps conserve your phone’s battery.

To extend battery life further, we recommend reducing screen brightness and carrying a small power bank for longer days on the trail.

We do not provide GPX files separately. All routes are available within our navigation app, which is the most reliable and up-to-date source for your trip. Once you receive the login details for the navigation app — generally shared about one month before your departure — you can explore the routes and, if needed, also download the GPX files directly from the app for use with your personal Garmin or GPS device. We recommend getting familiar with the app and its features before your tour starts to ensure a smooth experience on the road.

For minor issues like punctures, the guests are provided with a self-repair kit, which includes tools to help them fix such minor issues. The exact contents of the kit depend on the type of bike, terrain and other factors, and will be communicated to you closer to your date of departure. However, usually such a kit includes tire levers, a spare tube, a patch kit, and a pump, allowing riders to fix the problem themselves. In some cases, the kit may only include a pump or a repair foam.

Self-guided riders are expected to be independent in handling these minor problems. While there are some bike shops along the route, they are limited. If you are unsure about how to repair a puncture, we recommend considering a guided or van-supported trip instead.

For major mechanical failures, such as a cable break, the guests can contact the emergency support number provided. The support team will help coordinate a solution, which could include dispatching a local mechanic, suggesting a nearby bicycle shop for repairs, or sending a vehicle to pick up the rider. Please note that all support services will be provided on a chargeable basis, and assistance may take time, so we advise being prepared for potential delays.

Yes, each rider will be provided with at least one pannier to carry personal items during the tour.

Yes, we provide helmets. However, we recommend that guests try to bring their own helmets, as these are items of a personal nature.

Your luggage will be picked up at the reception of your hotel every morning by 9.00am.

It will be delivered to the next hotel before 5pm. Most of the time it is delivered in the early afternoon itself.

We recommend that you carry no more than 2 bags together weighing up to 15kgs for this trip. You can have one large bag, which contains all your clothing and gear needed for the trip, and one small bag that contains essential items you will frequently need such as passport etc. Please note that once a bag gets loaded in the luggage transfer vehicle, you may not have access to it till later in the evening when you reach the hotel for the night.

We provide local support by phone for any medical emergencies during the tour. Our local team will assist in coordinating medical care, guiding you to the nearest healthcare facility, and ensuring you receive the necessary support. The national emergency system is reliable and effective, and in the event of a serious accident, contacting them is highly recommended. However, due to our distance from certain areas, response times may be longer. We strongly recommend having appropriate travel insurance, and we will do everything we can to ensure your safety and well-being during an emergency.

Airport transfers are not included unless specifically mentioned in your trip inclusions.

For airport pickup, we recommend booking directly from the airport upon arrival — most airports have reliable taxi, shuttle, or app-based options.

For airport drop, please book a transfer through your last hotel — they can easily arrange it for you.

We focus on delivering exceptional experiences during your tour. For logistical simplicity and flexibility, we do not handle pre- or post-tour hotel bookings. However, we’re happy to share a list of recommended hotels near the starting and ending points of your trip so you can plan your stay independently.

The fitness level required for each trip is indicated by the "level" of the tour, which in turn is mentioned on each tour page right next to the price and the trip duration.

Easy: The terrain is mostly flat with a few gentle climbs.

Moderate: The terrain is either mostly flat or consists of rolling hills with a few challenging climbs. There could also be a few days with longer riding distances of up to 75 kms (45 miles)

Difficult: The terrain is mostly hilly with strong elevation gains and/or has long days on the bike. Such trips are recommended for intermediate to advanced cyclists.

Please note that we usually bike around 4-5 hours per day irrespective of the level of the trip.

You can exchange currency at the airport itself, or at ATMs in larger cities. Most commercial establishments will accept international credit cards for payments, though its good to carry some local currency with you at all times.

The meeting time on Day 1 is mentioned in your travel planner shared with you. You can arrive either on the morning of Day 1 depending on the meeting time, or book a pre-tour night to arrive a day earlier.

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