A demanding route through the heart of the Serranía de Ronda, connecting the Guadiaro and Genal valleys. Winding roads, relentless elevation changes and some of the region’s most iconic white villages shape a spectacular ride. Mountain cycling at its purest.
The route begins in Ronda and leaves the town towards Benaoján, immediately entering the mountainous terrain that defines the Serranía. After a fast descent, the road continues into the Guadiaro Valley and heads towards Jimera de Líbar and Cortes de la Frontera through an area of remarkable natural beauty.
From Cortes, one of the most demanding sections of the ride begins. The road climbs towards Gaucín along a winding route surrounded by Mediterranean woodland, offering magnificent views across the mountains. The constant succession of climbs and descents makes this part of the route a genuine challenge.
After Gaucín, the route enters the Genal Valley and links some of its most characteristic white villages: Algatocín, Benadalid and Atajate. The terrain remains relentlessly rolling before the final return to Ronda, completing an intense day on the bike through one of the most spectacular landscapes in inland Málaga.
For centuries, the Serranía de Ronda has occupied a strategic position between the Mediterranean coast and inland Andalusia. Its rugged terrain encouraged the development of small settlements that still retain the narrow, winding street plans inherited from their Andalusian past.
Ronda is the region’s main historical centre, but the villages along the route also preserve a rich heritage. Benaoján and Jimera de Líbar have traditionally been closely linked to the Guadiaro Valley, while Cortes de la Frontera occupied an important position on the routes connecting the Serranía with Campo de Gibraltar.
Gaucín stands on a natural vantage point and historically played an important defensive role. Its main landmark is the Castillo del Águila, or Eagle’s Castle. Algatocín, Benadalid and Atajate form part of the Genal Valley’s network of white villages, where agriculture, livestock farming and forestry have traditionally shaped the local way of life.
The cuisine of the Serranía de Ronda is closely connected to its mountainous landscape, livestock farming and woodland produce. Traditional recipes are hearty, based on local ingredients and historically adapted to rural life.
Some of the region’s most representative products include pork, artisanal cured meats and charcuterie, which are particularly important in villages such as Benaoján. Pulse-based stews, migas, mountain soups and dishes prepared with seasonal produce are also common.
Chestnuts, wild mushrooms and honey take centre stage in the Genal Valley, while Ronda is known for its cheeses, wines and growing winemaking tradition. Local pastries retain a strong Andalusian influence, with many recipes featuring almonds, honey and nuts.
The vegetation changes throughout the route according to altitude, the orientation of the slopes and proximity to the rivers. Holm oaks, Portuguese oaks, poplars and ash trees are found throughout the Guadiaro Valley, alongside riverside vegetation closer to the water.
As the route heads towards Cortes de la Frontera and Gaucín, cork oaks, holm oaks and pine forests become more prominent, accompanied by Mediterranean scrub species such as rockrose, heather, rosemary and Spanish broom.
In the Genal Valley, the landscape becomes greener and more densely wooded, with extensive chestnut groves alongside cork oaks and Portuguese oaks. During autumn, the chestnut leaves turn shades of ochre, red and gold, creating the distinctive landscape known locally as the Copper Forest.
The wide variety of landscapes along the route supports an equally diverse range of wildlife. Griffon vultures, eagles, kestrels and other birds of prey can often be seen soaring above the mountains and rocky cliffs.
The woodlands of the Serranía provide shelter for mammals such as roe deer, wild boar, foxes, badgers and Egyptian mongooses. Otters, amphibians and several bird species associated with river habitats can also be found around the Guadiaro and Genal rivers.
The quietest stretches of the route, particularly during the early hours of the day, offer excellent opportunities to observe wildlife in an unspoilt natural setting.
Covering both flat stretches and mountain roads, this circular route from Antequera climbs up to the spectacular El Torcal and explores one of the most unique landscapes in the province. It is a steady and demanding ascent, where the landscape gradually changes until it enters a limestone setting unlike anywhere else in Europe.
A route that connects some of the most representative landscapes of the Guadalhorce Valley. Quiet roads, whitewashed villages, long climbs and a varied ride that combines history, nature and authentic inland cycling. The perfect route to discover a different side of Málaga Province.
Between sea and mountains, this circular route from Torrox passes through some of the most beautiful white villages in the Axarquía region. Scenic climbs, technical descents and a final stretch along the Mediterranean after passing through Frigiliana, Cómpeta and Sayalonga. A full day of cycling with true Andalusian flavour.
