Cycling around Nerja

The Costa del Sol is more than just sun and sand; it's a paradise for cyclists, and Nerja provides the perfect base to discover the stunning Axarquía region. With my years of experience here, I know that spring, including this month of February, is a wonderful time to get on your bike. Temperatures are pleasant, nature is awakening, and the high season crowds are yet to arrive. The area around Nerja offers a fantastic variety of routes, from short, relaxing tours through olive groves to epic climbs with breathtaking views. Especially for you, I've taken a closer look at the 10 official Cycling Friendly routes through the Axarquía – an offering that suits every fitness level and preference.

## Why Cycle in the Axarquía?

The Axarquía, the eastern region of Málaga province, is characterized by its contrasting landscape. Here you'll find rolling hills full of mango and avocado plantations giving way to rugged mountains, such as the imposing Sierra de Tejeda, Almijara y Alhama. Amidst this natural beauty lie the 'pueblos blancos,' the white villages that seem to cling like pearls to the hillsides. This combination makes every bike ride a visual spectacle. The tranquility on the secondary roads, the friendliness of the locals, and the scent of citrus blossoms complete the experience. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned cyclist, you're guaranteed to find a route here that makes your heart beat faster.

## The 10 Official Cycling Friendly Routes: An Overview

The 'Cycling Friendly' routes are carefully designed and offer a mix of terrains and difficulty levels. They are perfect for exploring the interior of Málaga province, with Nerja as your ideal starting or endpoint. I'll take you through some of the most beloved routes and their specific characteristics.

• Route R06 (The Short One): Cómpeta - Canillas de Albaida - Algarrobo (30 km)
• This route is ideal for a gentle morning ride. You start from the charming mountain village of Cómpeta and cycle through green landscapes towards Canillas de Albaida and Algarrobo. It's a relatively flat route with a few gentle hills, perfect for warming up or if you're cycling with family. The views of the coastline are beautiful, especially as you descend towards Algarrobo.

• Route R01 (The Medium One): Frigiliana - Torrox - Cómpeta (60 km)
• The R01 is a classic and takes you through some of the most photogenic villages of the Axarquía. You'll likely start from Nerja, although the official route begins in Frigiliana, and cycle through Torrox with its Roman ruins, then climb to the breathtaking Cómpeta. The road between Frigiliana and Torrox often offers spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea. Be prepared for some serious climbs as you head towards Cómpeta, but the reward of panoramic vistas is well worth it.

• Route R05 (The Challenging One): Nerja - Frigiliana - Cómpeta - Alcaucín - Periana - La Viñuela - Vélez-Málaga - Nerja (105 km)
• If you're looking for a serious challenge, the R05 is your route. This long-distance tour of 105 kilometers involves a significant elevation gain and takes you through the heart of the Axarquía. You'll traverse picturesque villages like Alcaucín and Periana, and cycle past the La Viñuela reservoir, an oasis of tranquility. This route is not for the faint-hearted and requires good physical condition. However, you'll be rewarded with an unparalleled sense of accomplishment and a cross-section of everything the region has to offer: from mountain passes to vast agricultural lands and panoramic views of the coast and mountains. Make sure to carry plenty of water and nutrition, as the climbs can be quite tough, especially under a bright sun.

## Villages and Highlights Along the Routes

The beauty of cycling in the Axarquía lies not only in the exercise but also in the discovery of the unique villages you encounter along the way. Each village has its own charm:

• Frigiliana: Often voted the most beautiful village in Spain, with its narrow, cobbled streets, whitewashed houses, and abundance of flowers. A stop here for a coffee or a refreshing drink is an absolute must.

• Cómpeta: Known for its sweet wine and spectacular views. This village is a hub for hikers and cyclists and offers an authentic Andalusian experience.

• El Acebuchal: This 'lost village' was abandoned after the Spanish Civil War and has recently been lovingly restored. It exudes serene tranquility and is a tangible reminder of the region's history. A perfect spot for a lunch break with delicious local food.

• Arenas: A small, authentic village known for its almond blossoms in spring and its olive oil production.

• La Viñuela: Located by the reservoir of the same name, this area offers beautiful waterscapes and is an ideal place to relax and enjoy nature.

## Practical Tips for Your Cycling Adventure

To make your cycling adventure as pleasant and safe as possible, I'd like to offer you some tips from my own experience:

• Best Travel Time: As mentioned, this month of February and the broader spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are ideal. Summer can be too hot, especially for longer rides.

• Bike Rental: In Nerja, there are several places where you can rent good mountain bikes, road bikes, or e-bikes. Make sure to book in advance, especially during busier periods. A good e-bike can be a game-changer for the steep climbs, allowing you to enjoy the views without getting completely exhausted.

• Safety First: Always wear a helmet, bring plenty of water (especially on longer routes), and don't forget sunscreen. The Spanish sun is strong, even in winter.

• Navigation: Although the routes are well-marked, a GPS device or an app on your phone (with downloaded maps) is essential. The roads can be winding, and signage isn't always clear. All routes can be downloaded via the link at the bottom of this article in GPX format.

• Breaks: Plan regular short breaks. The villages along the way offer plenty of opportunities for a coffee, a `tostada con tomate`, or a `caña`. This is also a great way to soak up the local culture.

• Technical Check: Check your bike before departure. Tire pressure, brakes, and gears should be in order. Many rental places take care of this, but a quick check doesn't hurt.

## More Info and Official Route Map

To help you prepare even better for your bike tour, the province of Málaga has compiled an excellent and comprehensive guide with all 10 Cycling Friendly routes, including detailed maps, elevation profiles, and descriptions. It's an indispensable tool for any cyclist wanting to explore the region. You can download the official route map in PDF format via the following link:

Download the official Cycling Friendly route map of Axarquía here (PDF)

This guide contains all the details you need for a successful and enjoyable bike tour, whether you choose the short R06 of 30 km or the challenging R05 of 105 km. As a good friend of mine, Maria, who is also an avid cyclist, always says: "Good preparation is half the fun, and in the Axarquía, every turn is worth a new postcard!" So grab your bike, download the map, and embark on an adventure in the beautiful Axarquía around Nerja. The memories you make here will be invaluable.

## GPX Downloads: Cycling Routes around Nerja

In addition to the official Cycling Friendly routes, there are more fantastic cycling routes around Nerja, compiled by local experts at CycleNerja (Calle Almirante Carranza 36, Nerja). Below you'll find GPX files you can load directly onto your bike computer or phone:

• Route 1 - Nerja-Frigiliana-Torrox-Nerja (30 km, beginner friendly): Download GPX
• Route 2 - Nerja-Algarrobo-Competa-Torrox-Nerja (70 km, intermediate): Download GPX
• Route 4 - Nerja-Castillejos-Nerja (short, steep climb): Download GPX
• Route 5 - Nerja-Torre del Mar-Competa-Nerja (80 km, long): Download GPX
• Route 8 - Nerja-Frigiliana-Competa-Algarrobo-Nerja (65 km, intermediate): Download GPX
• Route 9 - Nerja-La Herradura-Almunecar-Lentegi (80 km, challenging): Download GPX
• Ruta de la Cabra (Goat Trail) (105 km, expert): Download GPX
• Nerja-Pena Escrita-Nerja (70 km, intermediate): Download GPX
• Pico del Veleta (from Guejar Sierra, expert): Download GPX

Tip: no bike? CycleNerja rents road bikes, mountain bikes and e-bikes. They also offer guided e-bike tours (from 40 euros per person). More info at cyclenerja.com.