AN IDEAL LOCATION
Based in the quaint town of Velez de Benaudalla, situated between the mountains of the Sierra Nevada and the Costa Tropical, we are blessed with 320 sunny days a year, making it the ideal base for your assault on the high mountains, at a time when most other destinations in Spain, France and Italy are covered in snow and unrideable.
The Sierra Nevada mountains boast some of the toughest climbs in Spain, attracting many of the world’s best professional riders, like Peter Sagan, who come to test themselves in preparation for the biggest races in the world. It is therefore the perfect location for those amongst us who thrive when the road points skywards, for those of us whom a relaxing week in Majorca just doesn’t cut it.
Gallery
About The Host
WHAT SHOULD YOU LOOK FOR IN A CYCLING DESTINATION?
All of these locations have a broadly similar appeal; good weather, well-surfaced roads, nice climbs and descents. The drivers are respectful, the roads are quiet, and there is a good amount of variety. The decision you have to make is one of suitability, do these destinations offer said roads, good variety, facilities, weather and accommodation? Is it expensive? Is there a good choice of food and restaurants? Do you want someone to guide you or do you want to focus on your own training on solo routes? Do you want a cycling holiday or a full on eat-sleep-cycle-repeat training camp? Are you coming with a group or solo?
Once you have decided what sort of package you’re looking for, you’ll soon realize that Cycle Sierra Nevada can comfortably cater for every single one of these criteria.
WHAT DOES SIERRA NEVADA HAVE TO OFFER?
1. The Roads - The roads here are exceptionally quiet, we're based in the countryside and once we leave our base there's not too many other road users to contend with. The drivers you do meet, are generally incredibly respectful, providing room whilst overtaking, as well as making sure you know they're there before they begin to overtake. It's not uncommon to tackle on of local climbs and not pass a single car.
2. The Climbs - We are based in valley surrounded by mountains, to the north we have the Sierra Nevada, to the east the Sierra de Lújar and coastal range of the Sierra de la Contraviesa, and to the west the Sierras de Los Guájares y Almijara. Consequently, there's no shortage of climbs to take on. In fact, we have more than 20 HC category climbs that are within riding distance from our base. That being said, whilst most of the climbs in the locality are quiet long they are mostly around 5 to 6 percent in average gradient, so you can select a gear and hold a steady rhythm for length of the climb.
3. The Weather - People often get the impression that the Sierra Nevada has a colder winter climate. Whilst this rings true for the city of Granada and the Ski Station at 2500masl, which can both experience bitterly cold temperatures in the winter. This is not the case for us on the southern side of the mountain. We're based at150masl and only a few kilometers away from the Costa Tropical which has, as the name would suggest, a sub-tropical climate. The area is blessed with 320 days of sunshine per year and it's one of the few regions of Europe where crops such as chirimoyas, avocados, bananas and mangoes grow. (Both photos were taken in January)
In the winter, the village benefits from the relative position of the Sierra Nevada. These mountains protect the area from the cold winds of the north and we also benefit from the warm winds of the south. In the event that the weather takes a turn in the mountains we head straight to the coast and the warm Costa Tropical.
Basically, this means that you can expect great conditions to cycle in the earlier part of the season and it's no uncommon to see the professionals, such as Peter Sagan, that are based in the Ski Station start their rides from our little village. It also means, unlike other areas in Spain, that it's possible to ride the bigger climbs all year round without wearing your full winter kit.
4. Variety - The variety in Sierra Nevada is endless, with an array of routes, climbs and descents to choose from. Feel like a recovery spin? Cycle down to the beach for coffee. Want an epic day? Head for one of the 20km climbs spread out around us. You’ll never have to ride the same roads twice. Such is the multitude of climbs out here that you’ll have trouble picking.
5. The Descents - As all ready mentioned above, we have the roads, we have the climbs, coupled with very little traffic make the descents here things of pure joy. Sweeping bends, fast straits, and tight hairpins all add to the fun of these long downhills. While descents may be daunting to some, the road surface, and little traffic means that you can relax a bit more. Your descending will undoubtedly be improved by the time you head home.
6. The Location - We're located in the small traditional Spanish village of Velez de Benaudalla. You will find genuine tapas bars, traditional restaurants typical of the Andalucian region, supermarkets, banks, pharmacy, doctors' surgery and takeaway foods. The bakery even makes daily deliveries around the village! As it's off the tourist map you do not have to expect tourist prices.
As we're basically only one hour from the airports of Malaga, Almeria, and Granada, it makes relatively easy to get cheap flights to us all year round.
Itinerary
Location
Things to keep in mind
FAQ
How Long can I stay? When can I arrive? Is there a start finish day?
The minimum stay is 3 nights. Most people come for a week arriving and departing on Saturdays, but if the flights don't suit or are too expensive we can accommodate arrivals on other days of the week too.
What is a typical weeks itinerary like?
Usually, five days in the saddle with a midweek rest day. Arriving on Saturday, transfers from the airport, build bikes, and optional light spin. Sunday to Tuesday is out on the bikes with a rest day on Wednesday. On Thursday and Friday, we’re back on the bikes. On Saturday, transfers to the airport and flights home. Please note that we are flexible with your arrival/departure day, allowing you to take full advantage of cheaper flights.
Which airport should I use?
You can choose to fly into either Malaga, Almeria or Granada airports. Malaga is the largest and most preferred airport for collections. Transfers from Malaga to Velez are arranged from 14:00 on Saturdays and return transfers to Malaga are arranged for the early morning on the following Saturday. Transfers outside of these times must be arranged, confirmed beforehand and may be subject to an additional charge.
Private individual transfers to Malaga and transfers to Granada or Almeria are subject to an additional charge.
Can I get a transfer from the airport?
Transfers from Malaga to Velez are arranged from 14:00 on Saturdays and return transfers to Malaga are arranged for the early morning on the following Saturday. Transfers outside of these times must be arranged, confirmed beforehand and may be subject to an additional charge.
Private individual transfers to Malaga and transfers to Granada or Almeria are subject to an additional charge.
What do I need to bring with me?
We recommend that you bring 2-3 pairs of bib tights/jerseys, 2 base layers, arm/leg warmers, wind vest/gilet, rain cape (better to have it and not need it), hat, gloves, and thermal jacket (in the early season it can be cold in the mountains). It’s always best to check the weather forecast prior to departure. You will also need to bring your own helmet as it’s a legal requirement for cyclists in Spain. It’s also advisable to bring a good set of sunglasses and some sun cream to protect your skin from the sun.
Do you suggest I fly with my own bike or rent from you?
Why bring your own when you can rent a top-of-the-line bike from us? Packing, unpacking, and rebuilding one's bike can be too much bother for some. For our guests, we offer a 10% discount on the prices listed on the website and we’ll even set up your bike free of charge. All you need to bring is your shoes.
What spares do I need to bring for my bike?
The host has a fully stocked bike shop with everything you may need to replace your bike. We recommend that you service your bike fully prior to departure. Ensure that all moving parts are in good working order, have fresh brake pads, and that your tires are free of cuts/scrapes.
Do I need to hire car?
It’s not necessary to hire a car for your week’s holiday here, but if you’re coming with a partner and you want to have the freedom to explore the local area in the evenings then you should consider hiring a car.
Is there WiFi or access in the accommodation?
Most of the accommodation has WiFi access but we can’t guarantee its availability. However, most of the bars, cafes, and restaurants in the village have free WiFi access. If you require internet access in your accommodation please inform us and we’ll attempt to accommodate you in this regard.
What amenities are there in the village?
Velez de Benaudalla is a typical small Andalusian village and it has everything you’d expect to find in small village, a couple of family run grocery stores, a few cafes/bars, a few bakeries selling typical Andalusian pastries, and a couple of restaurants. If there’s something you can’t really do without, you favourite brand of tea for example, we recommend that you bring it with you.
What is your cancellation policy?
If you wish to cancel your holiday we require written notification. Our cancellation charges are as follows: More than 60 days before departure: deposit only. Less than 60 days before departure: 100%. However, if you need to cancel we will always allow our guests to transfer any monies paid towards another date/holiday with us.
Do I need travel insurance?
It’s a precondition that you must obtain your own personal medical/accident insurance for the complete duration of your holiday with Cycle Sierra Nevada. If you’re traveling here from another EU country we also recommend that you obtain an EHIC card (European Health Insurance Card) prior to your departure for your holiday. The EHIC card will allow you free access to the local doctor should you need non-emergency medical attention. However, please note the EHIC card is not the equivalent of medical insurance and will not cover the costs of repatriation or emergency rescue costs.
Our hire bikes are not insured. The hiree is fully responsible for incidental theft or failure to return a cycle. Insurance coverage for our bikes is available via our website here or via Yellow Jersey (UK residents only).
I’m worried about being left behind, how fit do I need to be?
To participate in one of our camps a decent level of base fitness is required. The area where we are based is quite mountainous with lots of challenging climbs. Therefore, most days you will be constantly climbing or descending, and you will require a reasonable level of fitness before you come to handle numerous days of riding on this terrain. Nonetheless, if you're used to tackling long rides on the weekends you shouldn't really have too much trouble here. It's our aim to cater to our guest's needs. This may mean increasing or decreasing the length of the rides to suit the needs/capabilities of our guests. If you have any concerns regarding your suitability please feel free to contact us. The main aim of the week is to go away in better shape than you arrived in and hopefully have some fun whilst enjoying the warm sunshine of Southern Europe.
Do I have to ride everyday?
It's entirely up to you whether you wish to ride with the group or take a day off. There's never any pressure to make you do anything that you feel you're not up to. If you don't wish to go on the longer group rides, there's always the option of a solo short coffee spin to the beach.
Do I have to ride in a group?
It's not necessary to cycle in a group. If you wish you can book the accommodation and hire a bicycle and do your own thing for the week. Although, cycling in a group can be a lot more fun than going solo.
Do you offer deals to large groups, teams or clubs?
We can offer very competitive rates for larger groups of cyclists. Please get in contact with us for further details.
I have a group of friends that want to do our own trip. Is this possible?
Absolutely, we can adjust all of our trips to suit your needs. We also offer discounts for larger groups. Please get in contact with us to discuss a potential booking in greater detail.
Do I have to share a room? Can I come on my own?
It's not necessary to share a room and yes you can come alone. Our prices are based upon two guests sharing a twin room. If you want a room to yourself then a single supplement will apply.
How do you assign the sharing of apartments/Rooms?
As the accommodation is based in a variety of 2-bedroom apartments/townhouses it may be necessary to share an apartment with other guests. If you would prefer to have a single room or your own apartment then there is a separate charge per week for this. Please contact us to check availability and for further details.
Can I bring my family or a non-cycling partner?
Yes, it's no problem to bring your family/partner. Velez de Benaudalla is a small sleepy village, making it very safe for families and young children. There's also lots to do in the surrounding areas making it a great place for a short break.
How Long are the rides?
As the topography here is quite challenging we don’t measure our rides by distance, we measure our group rides by time. The duration of our group rides can last anywhere from 2 to 5 hours long, depending on the ability of the group. Depending on the time of year, we depart earlier in the hotter months, rides depart between 8 am - 10 am and generally return between 1 pm - 4pm.
When do I need to checkout?
Our check-out time is 10:00 am on the day of departure but this may be extended if requested and pre-approved by us.