Embark on the ultimate road cycling adventure across Spain’s most captivating landscapes. This 11-day journey blends exhilarating climbs, stunning scenery, and rich cultural heritage, making it an unforgettable experience for cyclists. Starting in the vibrant city of Bilbao, you’ll ride through Spain’s historic towns, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and renowned vineyards, culminating at the Mediterranean coast. With over 13,500 meters of climbing and more than 1,100 km of riding, this route offers the perfect balance of challenging ascents, breathtaking descents, and peaceful countryside roads.

Upon arrival in Bilbao, there will be a single timed transfer to your hotel and you will have time to settle in. Depending on your schedule, you can explore this vibrant city, renowned for its mix of traditional Basque culture and contemporary architecture, including the iconic Guggenheim Museum.

154km with around 2064m of ascent

Today’s route begins in the lively city of Bilbao, riding through its historic old town and past the world-famous Guggenheim Museum. Soon, the urban landscape gives way to more tranquil surroundings as you climb into the high plains of Spain. The change is dramatic, from the modern and industrial scenes to pine forests and pastures that feel almost alpine. The road continues through sandstone cliffs and timeless villages, where life has remained unchanged for centuries. You'll pass monasteries and vineyards before stopping in the picturesque town of Poza de la Sal for a break. Empty roads and sweeping vistas lead you to Burgos, a city rich in history and architecture. Staying near the old town, you'll have time to explore highlights such as the UNESCO-listed St. Mary’s Cathedral and the Monasterio de las Huelgas, or simply enjoy the local cuisine, including the famous black pudding and regional wines. (B,L)

109km with around 950m of ascent

Leaving the cobblestone streets of Burgos behind, the ride takes you through farmlands and ancient villages scattered across the plains. You'll cycle past grand churches dominating tiny hamlets, offering a glimpse into the region’s deep Catholic heritage. Lunch is in one of these remote towns, allowing you to absorb the peaceful, forgotten atmosphere of the Spanish countryside. As the day progresses, vineyards begin to appear, heralding your arrival into Spain’s famed winemaking region. Passing countless bodegas and wineries, there’s ample opportunity to stop for a tasting before reaching Peñafiel. Dominated by its impressive hilltop castle, Peñafiel is a hidden gem known for its food, wine, and the unique medieval Plaza del Coso, surrounded by 48 traditional buildings. (B,L)

85km with around 837m of ascent

After two longer days, today’s shorter ride offers a more relaxed pace as you head towards the stunning UNESCO World Heritage city of Segovia. The route meanders through more vineyards, evergreen woodlands, and ancient forests, with lunch in the charming town of Aguilafuente. After admiring its 12th-century Romanesque church, you’ll ride on to Segovia, where the breathtaking aqueduct, cathedral, and castle await. Your accommodation is in the heart of Segovia’s old town, giving you the perfect base to explore its narrow streets, lively cafes, and remarkable landmarks, including the cathedral and the fairy-tale Alcázar, which inspired Walt Disney’s Cinderella Castle. (B,L)

73km with around 1350m of ascent

Though the distance is shorter, today’s ride includes a stunning ascent through the Sierra de Guadarrama National Park. Departing Segovia via a dedicated bike lane, the climb through forested slopes begins gently but intensifies after 20 km as you ascend to the summit at Puerto de Navacerrada. Take a well-deserved break to admire the views and refuel at the summit’s café. The descent is fast and smooth, leading to a quieter section of ancient woodlands and small hamlets. After lunch, you'll visit the UNESCO-listed Royal Site of San Lorenzo de El Escorial, the world’s largest Renaissance building, home to royal tombs, art galleries, and stunning gardens. A final climb takes you to your charming accommodation in the rural town of Robledo de Chavela. (B,L)

113km with around 1000m of ascent

Leaving the quiet town of Robledo de Chavela, the landscape transitions to more rugged, arid terrain as forests and farmland give way to scrublands and olive groves. A unique highlight is a detour to the Madrid Deep Space Communications Complex, a joint ESA-NASA facility with massive satellite dishes that track interplanetary spacecraft. The route continues with undulating hills and remote plains before you arrive in Toledo, another UNESCO World Heritage city. Known for its rich blend of Arab, Jewish, and Christian influences, Toledo’s medieval streets offer an abundance of history and culture. Explore the Alcázar of Toledo, ancient mosques, and churches, and indulge in local specialties such as roast lamb and the renowned Toledo marzipan. (B,L)

150km with around 1370m of ascent

Today’s route takes you deep into the rural heart of Spain. Leaving Toledo, you’ll navigate through remote, quiet roads punctuated by occasional gnarly climbs. The landscape is dominated by picturesque olive groves and farmland, with long, uninterrupted stretches where you may not encounter another soul for miles. As you approach Ciudad Real, the vineyards reappear, and civilization slowly comes back into view. Stay on the outskirts of this charming city, famous for quirky attractions like the Don Quixote Museum. In the old town, you can savor local olive oils, wines, cheeses, and game meats such as partridge, quail, and wild boar. (B,L)

90km with around 986m of ascent

The final leg of your journey takes you through the Sierra de Cardeña Montoro National Park. After leaving the bustling streets of Ciudad Real, you’ll quickly return to the serene, open roads of Spain’s central plateau, surrounded by farmland and woodlands. After a hearty roadside lunch, the terrain becomes more challenging as you climb into the Valle de Alcudia y Sierra Madrona Natural Park. Enjoy a series of descents through dense forests before tackling four short climbs that lead you to Fuencaliente. This remote spa town, nestled in the hillside, offers the perfect opportunity to relax and rejuvenate after your epic cycling journey, with options for spa treatments or simply enjoying the rustic local culture. (B,L)

125km with around 1320m of ascent

The ride from Fuencaliente to Montilla is a scenic, undulating route through olive groves and rolling countryside. You'll tackle a manageable ascent of 1,319 meters, with opportunities to enjoy quiet roads and panoramic views of rural Spain. This day offers a balanced mix of challenge and beauty, ideal for warming up for the days ahead. (B,L)

81km with around 989m of ascent

Today's shorter ride takes you through the heart of Andalusia, where vineyards and whitewashed villages punctuate the landscape. With just under 1,000 meters of ascent, this is a relatively easy day, giving you time to explore Antequera, a historic town with Roman and Moorish influences, upon arrival. (B, L)

89km with around 1895m of ascent

A more challenging day lies ahead as you cycle towards the iconic town of Ronda. With 1,895 meters of climbing, this is a day of effort rewarded with breathtaking views of mountainous terrain and dramatic cliffs. Ronda’s famous Puente Nuevo and rich cultural heritage make this a memorable destination after a hard day on the bike. (B, L)

89km with around 1956m of ascent

The final full day of cycling features a demanding ascent of 1,956 meters as you ride through the Sierra Bermeja mountains to reach the coastal town of Estepona. This route is both scenic and rewarding, offering sweeping views of the Mediterranean Sea as you descend toward the coast. (B,L)

After days of cycling across Andalusia, today marks your departure. A timed transfer will take you to Malaga airport.