Madrid is a fabulous city. We recommend you arrive early. We’re happy to help with accommodation if need be.   

Our trip starts mid-morning. We’ll meet you at our central Madrid pick-up spot or at Madrid International Airport. Whatever is easiest for you. (That’s exactly our job for the next 11 days – to make your life easy)   

It’s a short drive over the Despeñaperros (super cool name) mountains, where we set up the bikes. Our first ride is gentle. Purely to make sure the bikes (and you) are working as they should. 35km of picturesque cycling through never ending olive fields around the city of Baeza. (UNESCO world heritage site # 1. The first of many…)    

Baeza, is our base for the next two nights. Known for its well-preserved Renaissance architecture. While the cyclists are out on the road – Team Mac go on a quick 20km run. Just joking – we’ve booked a local walking guide to show you the best of Baeza. That includes where to find the best coffee and believe me – we’ll be asking!!   

Tonight, we host a welcome dinner and introduce the team while talking through the next couple of days.  

By the way – we are very aware that you won’t want to start dinner at 9pm. But, at the same time, you are in Spain. We know all the restaurants so it’s likely we’ll start eating at about 7.30pm. Enjoy. 

Kidding. Remember – it is a holiday. Kind of.  

Let’s not start at 6am. The whole reason for a late September trip is to avoid the heat of the European summer. We’re expecting pleasant temperatures rather than scorching. General kick-off will be 9am.     

We ride out to the Sierra Magina Natural Park. The winding roads follow an undulating route, but the terrain never gets too steep, it all sounds too perfect!  

Except for…  

You have the option to climb Peña del Aguila. The 5km climb with a 9.5% average grade. This is Alberto Contador country. You need to average 19.5km per hour to match El Pistolero. That doesn’t sound too bad… Let’s give it a go. 

Generally speaking. The cappuccino ride will be 60km, latte 80km and the espresso distance is a shade over the hundy.  

Team Mac – you visit the Castulo Ibero Romano Archaeological site and museum. Excavations still continue today and monuments from Iberian, Roman and Moorish times are all present. We suggest you have some comfortable walking shoes as we’ll also factor in a good walk. We’ve also organised an olive oil tasting as you are in olive paradise. Would be rude not to.     

This afternoon we suggest you follow the traditional art of Siesta. I’d like to quote ChatGPT..  

“Siesta is a traditional practice, particularly common in Spain, that refers to a short nap or rest taken in the early afternoon, typically after a bike ride or walk and prior to a delicious dinner with a glass or wine. Or 3.”  

There’s nothing better than hotel to hotel cycling. Bring your bags to the van and then hop on your bike. That’s all we need you to do. Eat, drink, ride and sleep.  

Unless you are Team Mac. We’ve booked yoga for 5am. Followed by a 10km walk. If you pass both tests, then we’ll give you breakfast…. In all seriousness – you day is spent cooking. Yes, we’ve organised a traditional cooking school followed by lunch. (please bring us the leftovers) We do offer this on most of our Spain trips and it’s generally a highlight. I doubt any of us will lose weight on this trip.  

OK, back to the cyclists. Cazorla National Park is our destination. It’s a not so secret - cycling paradise. It’s also the largest, most protected, beautiful National Park in Spain! A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 1983. It is home to over 50 mammal and 185 bird species. 186 if you count the group of Kiwis in town.    

Stage 6 of the 2015 La Vuelta a España finished in Cazorla township which will be now home for the next three nights! A lively market town which has a great selection of tapas bars, all in the shadow of the beautiful Yedra castle. The castle's origins trace back to the Berber era, possibly during the Almohad period in the 12th century. 

A local legend associated with Yedra Castle is that of La Tragantía. According to the tale, during the Christian reconquest, a Moorish king hid his daughter in a cave near the castle to protect her from the invading forces. He was killed in battle, and the princess remained trapped, eventually transforming into a creature half-woman, half-serpent. Please keep an eye open for her. Safety is key.  

Let’s start with the important people first. Team Mac – you’ll be guided on a fantastic 5 km walk along the Cerezuelo River. Which flows through Cazorla. It passes through a picturesque gorge and is a popular feature of the Sierra de Cazorla Natural Park. This afternoon we suggest you indulge in one of the many health spas. If being pampered isn’t your thing then we’ll run you up to the reservoir when you’ll get a chance to catch up with those on 2 wheels.     

Le cyclist – we’re guessing that the majority of will ride in tomorrow’s fondo, so we suggest a slightly easier ride today. Only 50km but that does include a puppy dog 14km climb. Puerto de las Palomas climbs 375m at an average grade of 2.5% which in our world is pretty much flat.  

After the climb you are spoilt with a flowing descent down to the turquoise-coloured waters of the Tranco reservoir. Officially known as Embalse del Tranco or El Tranco de Beas, is a significant man-made lake which took almost 20 years to build and started in 1927.  

This is again a popular La Vuelta route. 

This afternoon the team will clean and service your bikes while you register for tomorrow’s Sierra de Cazorla Gran Fondo. Known for its challenging climbs, scenic mountain passes, and natural beauty, this Gran Fondo is a must in one of Andalusia’s most spectacular regions.  

Given there will be hundreds (if not thousands) of cyclists in town, all the restaurants will be full. Which is exactly why we’ve pre-booked dinner. It also gives Paul and the team the chance to answer any questions you may have.

Team Mac first - the weekly market in Cazorla, known locally as "El Mercadillo," takes place every Saturday at the Recinto Ferial, located on Calle de la Piscina. This vibrant open-air market offers a wide variety of goods, including fresh produce, local delicacies, handmade crafts, clothing, and household items. It's a popular gathering spot for both residents and visitors, providing an authentic glimpse into Andalusian market culture.  

After the market, Team Mac kills some time with a nice lunch before making their way to the finish line to see Team RH finish today’s event. We’re expecting RH chants and pink and blue pom poms – no pressure!!      

Le cyclist – the 2026 ‘Sierra de Cazorla Gran Fondo’ will celebrate its 6th edition. In 2024 there were 1200 participants. It’s an epic epic ride. 145km with 2090m of climbing. Two Cat 2 climbs and one Cat 3 climb….. Pretty much flat.  

Ok, for us – it is not a race. It’s a full day on the bike with a thousand mates. E-bikes are welcome, and we’ll make sure we have batteries at halfway, so you last the whole distance. There are 4 rest stops as the course circumnavigates Segura y Las Villas Natural Park—the largest protected natural area in Spain.    

Plan B? Yes, there is a more social, coffee ride planned for those who don’t want to be part of the Fondo. We also suggest you check out the market before grabbing your pom poms and joining Team Mac at the finish line.  

Tonight, we celebrate. It’s a fantastic achievement for those who completed the event. No doubt there will be a few stories. Well done team. Cheers to you.  

It’s one of those places that you need to see. Which is why we have 3 nights here. Granada really is beautiful. The centrepiece being the Alhambra.  A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Alhambra is a stunning palace and fortress complex originally constructed by the Moors in the 13th century. It's famous for its Islamic architecture, intricate tile work, and beautiful gardens like the Generalife. 

There are lots of things to like about Granada. This may seem a bit shallow, but for me - Granada is one of the last cities in Spain where you still get free tapas with your drink. Free stuff when you buy a beer. Yippee. (Yes, I know, sorry but I am from Upper Hutt…) 

Anyway, getting back to the day.  

Team Mac – after your daily cortado (Spanish version of a FW) you drive straight to Granada. We’ve booked the thermal baths. You are welcome to extend that to some additional pampering. It’s then a spot of retail therapy prior to the cyclists arriving. We then finish with tapas. (Which are free when you drink beer or wine but I’m sure I’ve mentioned that already. Yippee)    

Cyclists – our target is the southwestern corner of the national park. More specifically - the Puerto de Tiscar climb. ´Tiscar´ is a Cat 2 climb (8km with a constant 6% grade) and offers amazing views of the surrounding valleys and peaks! Sections of this ride make you think that you’re riding in the Grand Canyon. The ride finishes in the town of Pozo Alcon where we drink numerous cortado’s before driving the last 90mins through to Granada 

Even guides get sore bottoms. The first 6 days have been pretty full on. Tomorrow is also fairly chunky so today is the perfect chance to catch up on emails, laundry and maybe book a massage.  

This morning, we recommend visiting the La Alhambra Palace, the most visited monument in Spain. Apparently, it draws in over 2 million visitors annually so we will suggest perhaps getting there early! 

Given we’ve been doing this for almost 20 years – we recognise that some of you will find it almost impossible to rest. So, yes, there’s an afternoon bike ride on offer. A fantastic 50km in the Sierra Nevada foothills.  

Like on all days – we will also have a good walk planned for Team Mac. You can opt in or out. It wouldn’t be a bad idea for a few of the cyclists to beat the feet as well.  

** Please note, any cyclist joining Team Mac will need to pay for their coffees for the whole afternoon. And, if, when they get bored of coffee, you are then obliged to shout them a sangria or 2. ** These are the official Team Mac rules. 

Tonight is a free night. We suggest you check out the Albaicín. This old Moorish quarter features narrow, winding streets with lots of restaurant choices.  

We are often asked why we include a training program on all our trips. It’s 10 weeks long and our coach – Silas Cullen will help in any way he can. The idea being that the fitter you are – the more enjoyable the trip.  

Hmm, that leads nicely on to today’s plan.   

The ‘Pico de Veleta’ climb really is one of the great cycling challenges in Europe. A 40km continuous climb to the summit, which is at 3395m, with an average grade of 6.5% and an altitude gain of approximately 2650m. Gulp! It is the highest asphalted road in Europe. Gulp Gulp!!  

The summit offers expansive panoramic views. On clear days, you can see the Mediterranean Sea to the south and, occasionally, the Rif Mountains in northern Africa. There are numerous walks   

Those not wanting to ride the whole way can be dropped 20km up the hill. Totally up to you. Yes – it is a holiday. Kind of.   

Team Mac – early this morning we suggest you visit the Albayzin markets before joining the cyclists. Vehicle access is restricted to the summit however there are a number of great walks from Hoya de la Mora which sits at 2,500m. There’s also a chair lift which takes you further up the mountain to about the 3000m mark. If you want to get to the top, then you need to cover the last wee little bit by foot. ** Did I mention that the training program is also for Team Mac?  

What a fantastic day. I’m tired just thinking about it. Let’s eat together. Early if possible so we can all have a decent kip. Good night.   

It’s time to say goodbye to Granada. It’s about a 2-hour drive through to the Malaga Lakes District which is where we start riding from. The winding roads through the Serrania de Ronda mountains were historically infamous for bandits but today they are made for road cyclists!  

Some quick H&S. If you encounter a bandit, please comply with their every demand. They will probably ask for your bike. The general rule of thumb is…. to say a big firm no if your bike is an Italian brand. If it’s a Specalized or Trek - then a big firm yes. It could be the best chance of upgrading to something beautiful. And Italian. H&S – tick.  

The Puerto del Viento climb was used during Stage 5 of the 2017 La Vuelta a Andalusia. The descent down to the Ronda is spectacular. Rounding out a 60km ride. An additional 40km ride to Setenil de las Bodegas will be on offer for the Espresso riders.  

Team Mac – drive 1hr 15min to Antequera. Renowned for its rich cultural heritage, striking natural landscapes, and vibrant local traditions. Often referred to as the "heart of Andalusia" due to its central location between Málaga, Córdoba, Seville, and Granada, Antequera offers a unique blend of history, nature, and gastronomy. We then drive about another hour to Ronda where we catch up with the cyclists.   

Our fairytale accommodation for the next 3 nights is the mountaintop city of Ronda, described as the city suspended between the sky and earth. Perched atop the El Tajo gorge, Ronda is one of the most picturesque and dramatic towns in the country, offering a blend of natural beauty, deep cultural roots, and architectural marvels. 

There are a few options today.. Let’s roll through them.  

Option 1 – a short 50km coffee ride that circumnavigates Ronda. Followed by…  ahhhh. Coffee and hopefully – donuts. Team Mac will be able to tell us where.  

This would free up some time for you to spend in Ronda. There’s a lot to see. We suggest a walk across the Puente Nuevo (New Bridge) which spans the gorge and connects the old and new parts of the town. It’s an iconic structure, completed in 1793, and provides breathtaking views. You could always join Team Mac as they indulge in a spot of Flamenco music and dancing! Heading back to Arab baths also wouldn’t be silly….  

That is option 1. Boy, option 2 had better be good.  

Yes – it involves a climb. The Puerto de las Palomas starts in Zahara de la Sierra township which is nestled into the corner of a scraggy rocky mountain.  

´Palomas´ is a Cat 1 climb that has been used 3 times during La Vuelta a España. It is a 12km climb with a constant 6% grade. In previous trips this particular climb was rated as a favourite by our clients.  

Team Mac – there’s certainly been a theme to your trip. It’s involved a lot of food, coffee, wine. Given that it’s your last full day together – let’s not stop. This time, it’s cheese. You visit Grazalema – famous for its Payoyo cheese. Crafted from the milk of Payoya goats and Merina Grazalemeña sheep, both native to the region. The term "Payoyo" refers to the inhabitants of Villaluenga del Rosario. The cheese is typically aged between 3 to 6 months, resulting in a firm texture and a rich, tangy flavour.  

You then visit the ancient riverside “cavehouses” of Setenil de las Bodegas. The town's origins trace back to prehistoric times, with evidence suggesting human habitation in the area for over 25,000 years. Setenil's most striking feature is its homes that are built into the rock overhangs of the Río Trejo gorge.  

Cyclists – we are approaching today as a 100km day. It’s important to sign out on a high note. By this stage of the trip you will be fit, fit, fit. We ride from our hotel in Ronda, starting with a descent on beautiful meandering roads.  

There’s really only one climb of note. It’s 6km at 6%. Alto de Atajate should be pretty easy by day 11. Pretty much roll up it.  

We enjoy more olive groves and white picturesque villages as we loop back towards Ronda. Keep an eye open vultures and other birds of prey. Let’s hope we are their target audience.  

This afternoon we’ll help pack down the bikes before we celebrate a final dinner together. What a fabulous holiday.  

More importantly – we met a whole heap of new people. Who are now friends for life.  

Welcome to the RH whanau.  

Our Tour will finish after breakfast.  

You have a few choices. 1, stay in Ronda. There are certainly worse places to relax.  

It’s a 90min drive to Malaga Airport which services hundreds of European flights daily. Closer to the time we’ll work out a more concrete plan but please don’t book anything prior to 3pm.  

The other option is to check out one of Malaga’s 16 beaches. There’s a reason why half of Britain move here every winter.  

Thank you once again for travelling with Ride Holidays.  

Safe travels home,  

Karl and the team at RH