The Best Destinations for Biking in Spain 

Whether you want to discover Spain’s historic cities on two wheels or venture into the countryside, the country offers incredible options for cycling adventures. Expert cyclists can tackle Pico de Veleta in the Sierra Nevada, considered Europe’s highest paved road. Those who prefer a scenic ride can venture into the countryside of Pais Vasco. With its vast and diverse landscapes, your cycling adventure will be truly memorable.

If you need more ideas on where to cycle in the country, check out our recommendations for some of the best destinations for biking in Spain.

Menorca

Menorca is one of the best islands in Spain to explore on a bike. Biking fanatics can venture into a gently rolling landscape on two wheels and visit remote beaches and places of interest. Whether you prefer to cycle along the coastal roads or deep into the woodlands, Menorca has spectacular cycling routes to explore the island’s stunning landscapes while soaking in the fresh air and getting some fantastic exercise. 

While there are no mountains in Menorca, some hills will take you to steep hills, which might prove difficult for those not in good shape. However, most trails are suitable for all levels, including kids. Expert cyclists can venture to the top of Monte Toro. At 358 metres high, it is the island’s highest point. Getting to Monte Toro requires a 30-minute bike ride from Es Mercadal and will reward you with the island’s most panoramic views.

One of the most popular cycling routes is Camí de Cavalls, an 85-km trail that takes you to the entire coastline, suitable for those who prefer to cycle along the coast. Since some sections require steep climbs, you must be fit to conquer this trail. 

Menorca has an excellent network of well-signposted trails. Some of these trails will take you deep into the countryside, where you’ll discover remote villages, secluded beaches and unspoiled scenery.

Mallorca 

Another island worth exploring on a bike is Mallorca. Whether you’re an expert or an amateur cyclist, you’ll find many spectacular routes to tackle on Mallorca. In fact, the island is host to cycling marathons like the Mallorca 312. However, the Mallorca 312 Cycling Trail is more suited for experts and professionals. It’s a very tough ride that requires over 5,000 metres of climbing. 

Renting a bike in Mallorca is easy. But it’s a good idea to book in advance. Some hotels offer complimentary use of bikes, so you may want to check with the hotel where you’re staying.

If you’re in Palma, the most popular cycling path runs along the seafront, from Porto Pi towards El Arenal. It takes you through the chic areas of El Molinar and Ciudad de Jardín, including the holiday resorts of Playa de Palma and Arenal. The route is mostly flat. But be mindful of other cyclists, pedestrians, kids, and rollerbladers.

If you want to venture outside Palma, you can cycle in the island’s central region, where you’ll find mostly flat terrain, taking you to charming villages like Santa Maria and Bunyola.

Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria is another island that lures cyclists with the promise of stunning coastal roads and varied terrain. Almost half of the island is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve due to its abundant flora and fauna. As you pedal through the island, expect to see incredible wildlife, including birds of prey flying over the mountaintops.

Many routes in Gran Canaria are not for the faint of heart. The island’s volcanic landscape means the trails will naturally take you to mountain peaks with plenty of brutal climbs. Dominated by a single volcano, Gran Canaria’s roads require numerous ascends and descents, totally different from Lanzarote, where no climb is over 600 metres.

One of the most popular cycling routes in Gran Canaria is the Valley of the Tears. Although it requires a steep climb, the stunning views will make it well worth it. It requires a gruelling 12.4km ascent, making it more suitable for expert cyclists looking for some challenge. As the name suggests, you could end up with real tears as you pedal through the valley, especially on the steepest section of about 100 metres.

Ibiza 

Ibiza is known for its party lifestyle, conjuring images of wild nights and unlimited booze. But despite that, Ibiza is another island you can explore on a bike. You can cycle to off-the-beaten-path places, discover sleepy fishing villages, swim in secluded coves, and more. The best part is that there are plenty of high-end villas in Ibiza that offer a relaxing place to come home to after your cycling adventure.

Ibiza is small compared to Majorca and many other islands in Spain. But what it lacks in size more than makes up for its scenic roads and trails. Those looking for some challenge can cycle to the highest point of the island, at about 475 metres above sea level. Your journey will take you to rolling roads lined with olive groves. 

On the south side of the island, you’ll find smoother and quieter paths with magnificent views of the Mediterranean. Because the island is small, you will never be far from the sea, harbour, or town. Make stops at towns like Port de Sant Miguel, where you’ll find waterfront cafes and restaurants to grab some food and drinks.

Tenerife

It doesn’t matter what type of cyclist you are – Tenerife can offer the incredible biking adventure you’ve been looking for. As the largest of the Canary Islands, it’s one of the best cycling destinations in Spain, with trails offering dramatic scenery of vertical sea cliffs and the majestic Mount Teide.

By far, the most popular cycling trail is one that goes to Mount Teide, Spain’s tallest mountain, dominating the entire island. If you’re coming to Tenerife for a cycling holiday, you should not leave without tackling it. But if you don’t want to climb, you’ll find easy cycling trails to tackle. 
Most of the roads on the island either go up or down, including the main roads. If you want to avoid some of the major climbing routes, you can try cycling the loop around La Orotava via Palo Blanco.