Escape the cold: The best winter cycling destinations
The beginning of winter doesn't mean you have to stop your cycling activity. For cycling fans, the winter season can be a great opportunity to explore breathtaking landscapes. It will be chilly, but also energizing.
So here are some of the best winter cycling destinations in Spain and its surroundings.
7 winter cycling destinations
Spain is a country famous for its geographic and climate diversity. Offering a unique cycling experience during the cooler months. From the snowy peaks to the coastal areas, we can't deny that this country is a paradise that deserves to be explored at any time of the year.
Discover the best places for cycling adventures in Spain.
Take note of these amazing winter cycling destinations and start preparing your adventure!
Costa Brava
The Costa Brava, in the region of Catalonia, is an ideal cycling destination that combines the beauty of the Mediterranean coastline with the Catalan culture.
During winter, the region has a mild and nice weather for cycling. The routes along the Costa Brava will take you to charming fishing villages. From Blanes to Portbou, each route along the coast will offer you a unique experience.
If you choose this destination for your winter cycling trip, you will be able to ride along paths that wind next to cliffs, enjoying panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea that will fascinate you.
Moreover, the Costa Brava also gives you the opportunity to discover charming medieval villages that overlook the sea. Some towns, such as Calella de Palafrugell or Tossa de Mar, will take you back in time with their architecture, centenary walls and cobbled streets. Ideal to visit them while taking a break in your route.
Mallorca
Another of the best winter cycling destinations in Spain is the Balearic island of Mallorca. During the winter, the temperatures are moderate, so it is a place known internationally among cycling enthusiasts looking to escape from the cold.
One of the reasons that make Mallorca so special for cyclists is the wide variety of landscapes it offers. From the coastal plains to the breathtaking mountains of the Serra de Tramuntana, you can enjoy routes that suit all preferences and levels of ability.
One of the most iconic Mallorcan routes is the one that leads to Sa Calobra. It is a sinuous route that winds its way through breathtaking gorges, with unrivalled panoramic views.
Andalusia
The province of Andalusia also stands out as a winter cycling destination. However, instead of focusing on doing just one, it is best to consider doing the TransAndalus route.
This route features a unique experience for cyclists in southern Spain, as it crosses the eight provinces of Andalusia on a route that runs for more than 2,000 kilometers.
Thanks to it, you will have the opportunity to explore the cultural and natural beauty of Andalusia, enjoying everything from the warm plains of Cadiz to the peaks of the Sierra Nevada.
Specifically, some of the protected natural sites that you will be able to cross are Cabo de Gata, Cazorla, Sierra de Baza, Doñana, Los Alcornocales and Almijara and Alhama.
Gran Canaria
The Canary Islands have an excellent mild climate all year round. Therefore, it is also considered one of the most popular winter cycling destinations in Spain. In particular, the island of Gran Canaria offers a well-established network of routes, as well as a great variety of terrain.
The roads that wind along the coastline will give you the chance to enjoy the breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, feeling the sea breeze on your face. On the other hand, you will also find mountain trails to explore the unique geology of this island of volcanic landscapes.
Besides what we have mentioned, it is worth pointing out that one of the highlights in Gran Canaria for cyclists is the Pico de las Nieves, which is the highest point of the island, with 1,949 meters of altitude. A challenge that will be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views that cover the entire island.
Alicante
Alicante also stands as one of the most distinguished winter cycling destinations.
With a mild and very pleasant weather, this region located in the southeast of Spain has all the ideal characteristics that explain why cycling in Alicante is a great idea for cycling enthusiasts.
In Alicante, you will find the perfect scenery for cycling both along the coast and through the mountain landscapes that surround this region. One example is the Via Verde del Maigmó route, which runs through the heart of the Sierra de Aitana.
In addition, the diversity of Alicante's terrain offers plenty of options for all levels, with a very advanced infrastructure for cycling.
Discover the best cycling routes in Altea.
Algarve
Although it does not belong to Spain, the Algarve, in the southern part of Portugal, also deserves a special mention among the best winter cycling destinations.
The Algarve has a mild climate all year round, offering a cycling experience that combines breathtaking scenery along the Atlantic coast with the rich culture of our neighbors.
On your routes, you will be able to explore natural beauties such as golden beaches and rugged cliffs, all from a unique perspective. In fact, one of the most outstanding routes for cyclists in the Algarve is the Ecovia do Litoral, with almost 214 kilometers.
This route follows the coastline and offers good signage connecting one end to the other, along the green corridor between Cape St. Vincent and Vila Real de Santo António.
If you choose this winter cycling destination, you will not only be able to cycle through stunning nature reserves, but also through historic and charming towns such as Faro, Lagos and Tavira.The Camino Francés
The Camino Francés is an essential part of the Jacobean itineraries and also stands out as one of the best winter cycling destinations for several reasons.
It is true that during the winter the temperatures on this route are much lower than in other destinations mentioned above, but the Camino Francés offers an experience without the crowds. So you can enjoy the peacefulness of nature at its best.
In addition, the Camino Francés is very attractive due to the variety of its landscapes and terrains. You will be able to cross between the green valleys of Navarra and the arid plains of Castilla y León, making each leg an unforgettable journey.
You will also be amazed by the impressive views of the Pyrenees, you will pass through Galician forests and visit some of the most charming medieval villages of the Spanish geography.
Thanks to the reputation of this route, the infrastructure along the way is perfectly set up to give bikers plenty of space. Ensuring a safer and more comfortable ride.
Check out: Best places for cycling adventures in Spain
As you can see, if you are thinking about spending your cycling holidays in Spain during the coldest season of the year, you will have many options to choose from among our list of winter cycling destinations.
