From the sunny streets of Marbella, the route enters the Sierra Blanca, ascending between gentle curves and Mediterranean pine forests. Passing through Ojén opens the door to a wilder and more mountainous environment, where the ascent to El Juanar offers silence, shade and wide views towards the coast.
This 45 km circular route with 1,000 meters of elevation gain is an excellent option for cyclists seeking a moderately challenging experience. It starts and ends in Marbella, taking riders through the picturesque landscapes of Ojén and El Juanar, in the heart of the Sierra Blanca. The climbs to both Ojén and El Juanar are among the main challenges of the route, but they are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the Costa del Sol. This route is ideal for intermediate-level cyclists and those looking to enjoy nature without venturing too far from the city.
Marbella, point of departure and arrival, is known not only for its luxury tourism, but also for its history dating back to Roman times. Marbella, both the starting and finishing point of this route, has a rich history dating back to Roman times and earlier. The region was once an important commercial port for Phoenicians and Romans. As the route moves toward Ojén, cyclists encounter a place with a history deeply influenced by Moorish culture, which dominated the region until the Reconquista. Ojén was historically known for its agriculture, especially the cultivation of vineyards. The ancient mountain paths around El Juanar were once essential for communication between the inland villages and the coastal towns. This route blends natural beauty with historical landmarks, offering cyclists a glimpse into the region’s past while experiencing its diverse landscapes.
The cuisine along this route combines traditional Andalusian flavors with contemporary twists. Marbella, known for its luxury, offers a wide range of restaurants where local ingredients are used to create innovative dishes. Ojén, a smaller village, offers traditional dishes like “ajoblanco” (cold almond soup) and “sopa de picadillo” (tomato-based soup with bread, egg, onion, and ham). The route also features several small bars and restaurants serving local tapas such as “boquerones en vinagre” (marinated anchovies) and “migas” (fried breadcrumbs with chorizo and other accompaniments). Olive oil is a key ingredient in many dishes, with fresh salads and gazpachos making use of this local staple. Additionally, honey from the region is often used in desserts like “pestiños” and “roscos de vino,” making for a perfect end to any meal. Cyclists who stop at one of the small restaurants or bars in Ojén or Marbella will have the opportunity to enjoy the essence of Malaga’s food.
The fauna along the route is diverse and reflective of the region’s biodiversity. In the initial stages of the ride, near Marbella, cyclists may encounter seabirds like seagulls and cormorants. As the route moves inland toward Ojén and El Juanar, the wildlife shifts, with mountain animals such as ibex, foxes, and rabbits becoming more common. In the pine and oak forests near El Juanar, wild boars and roe deer may be seen, especially during dawn or dusk. Raptors like the golden eagle and the eagle owl are frequent in the area, soaring above the mountain ridges. The riverbanks near Ojén offer a habitat for smaller mammals and a variety of insects, including butterflies and dragonflies, which contribute to the region’s rich biodiversity.
The flora of this route is typical of Mediterranean and mountainous environments. Near Marbella, vineyards and olive groves dominate the landscape, accompanied by Mediterranean shrubs like rosemary, lavender, and rockrose. As the route ascends toward Ojén and El Juanar, pine and oak forests take over, providing shade and cooler temperatures for cyclists. These trees provide shade and coolness for cyclists tackling the climb. Higher up, the vegetation becomes more rugged, with wild olive trees, thyme, and sage dotting the landscape. The region is also home to a variety of medicinal and aromatic plants, historically used by locals. The river and stream areas, such as the Río Ojén, feature aquatic plants like alder and reed, adding to the natural beauty of the route. The area’s diverse plant life provides a fascinating and ever-changing backdrop for cyclists along the way.
From the Balcón de Europa, the route follows the coast before turning inland. After crossing La Herradura, the road becomes more demanding and quiet, ascending towards the Puerto de los Castillejos between mountains, pine forests and open views of the sea.
From Malaga, the route ascends between mountains, leaving behind the urban bustle. The road is wrapped in silence and pine forests to crown the Puerto del León, before a serene descent to Olías.
From Coín, the route unfolds northward between fields and mountains. After passing through charming villages, El Chorro is reached, where the canyons and the Caminito del Rey (King’s Little Path) mark the climax of a long, mountainous and spectacular journey.
