El Torcal and puerto de La Joya from Antequera

A compact loop packed with elevation, this route climbs directly into the limestone heights south of Antequera. It begins with the long, scenic ascent to El Torcal, cutting through layered rock formations and winding between cliffs and pine stands.

From the high plateau it's a narrow descent drops toward La Joya, where the next climb begins. The road rises gently at first, then cuts through cereal fields and open hillsides on its way to Puerto de La Joya, offering wide views over the surrounding countryside. The return to Antequera is fast and flowing, rolling past olive groves and quiet farmland.

You could decide so skip the climb to El Torcal that would save you ±300 of elevation.