From the coast next to the Parador de Golf, the route moves away from the sea to ascend inland. Between fields and white villages, the route gains altitude on the way to Mijas, with views that alternate between the coast and the mountains before returning to Torremolinos.
This circular route starts at the Parador de Golf and ends in Torremolinos, offering a varied ride that combines coastal scenery with inland mountains. Covering 58 km and 830 meters of elevation gain, the route passes through Churriana, Alhaurín de la Torre, Alhaurín el Grande, Mijas, and Benalmádena. It features scenic roads with breathtaking views and challenging climbs. Traffic levels vary, with quieter stretches in the mountains and busier sections near the towns. This route is ideal for cyclists looking for a mix of sea, mountains, and the vibrant culture of the Costa del Sol.
This route passes through towns with rich historical backgrounds. Torremolinos has origins dating back to Phoenician times but flourished under Moorish rule as an important agricultural hub. Its name comes from the many mills that once used the region’s mountain waters. Churriana was a strategic settlement during the Muslim period and later became known for its large estates and agricultural production. Alhaurín de la Torre and Alhaurín el Grande were key Moorish settlements with thriving agriculture, particularly in citrus and olive oil production. Mijas, with its Iberian-Roman roots, has preserved its traditional Andalusian white village layout, featuring narrow streets and Moorish influences. Benalmádena, once known for its iron mines, has grown into one of the most popular tourist destinations on the Costa del Sol.
The route passes through towns rich in culinary traditions. In Torremolinos, the highlight is sardine skewers (espetos), grilled over open flames on the beach. Churriana is known for its traditional cold cuts and sausages. Alhaurín de la Torre and Alhaurín el Grande offer hearty local dishes like gazpachuelo, a fish soup with mayonnaise, and ajoblanco, a cold almond and garlic soup. In Mijas, one must try borrachuelos, fried pastries coated in honey or sugar, a staple of Malaga’s dessert culture. Benalmádena boasts a wide selection of fresh seafood, with beachside restaurants specializing in Mediterranean cuisine.
The route showcases diverse plant life. Near Torremolinos and Churriana, avocado and citrus groves dominate the landscape. In Alhaurín de la Torre and Alhaurín el Grande, olive and almond trees create a stunning seasonal bloom. In the mountainous areas near Mijas and Benalmádena, Mediterranean vegetation thrives with stone pines, holm oaks, and cork oaks. Aromatic shrubs such as thyme, rosemary, and lavender fill the air with their distinct scents. Along the way, hardy plants like dwarf palms and oleanders flourish, well adapted to the region’s hot and dry climate.
The route offers encounters with various wildlife species. In the countryside and mountains, it’s common to see birds of prey like the short-toed eagle and kestrel. Smaller birds, including goldfinches, greenfinches, and nightingales, add a vibrant soundtrack to the journey. Mammals such as foxes and rabbits can be spotted in less urbanized areas. Near Mijas and Benalmádena, horses are commonly seen in ranches and farms, used for both work and leisure riding. Along the coast, the waters host seabass, white seabream, and occasionally dolphins, making for a spectacular maritime experience.
In a few kilometers, the urban noise transforms into open countryside. The gentle hills lead to Almogía and, further on, the landscape becomes more rugged towards Villanueva, where the silhouette of the Torcal looms between olive groves and solitary mountains.
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.
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.
