The Best Cycling Routes in Gran Canaria

f you want to circle the volcano on Gran Canaria, then this one is for you. This epic route is a real challenge and should not be taken lightly. You can start basically anywhere on the loop and ride in either direction, but our route starts in Maspalomas so that you can get the hardest part out of the way first.

This circular ride from Teror packs a full tour of Gran Canaria’s mountainous heartland into a single day. After a short descent to Arucas, the road climbs steadily to Cruz de Tejeda, threading through green valleys and pine-covered hillsides with a classic feel. From there, it follows the island’s high spine across open ridgelines, with huge views down into the ravines and out to the coast. Past Ayacata, the scenery becomes even more dramatic near the iconic Roque Nublo, before the final ascent to Pico de las Nieves takes you to the highest paved point on the island. The descent winds down through pine forests and small farming hamlets, crossing greener slopes and open plateaus as you approach Vega de San Mateo. From there, quiet backroads and gentle climbs take you through rural patches and terraces to loop back toward Teror.

This coastal to volcano loop starts in Maspalomas and takes you west towards Santa Águeda. From there, it turns inland and follows the Arguineguín valley at an easy, steady pace. Here the road start to go up and what follows is a long and demanding climb. It pitches up sharply as you ride past volcanic walls and into pine forest on the way to Cruz de San Antonio. This is the toughest part of the route. Keep climbing until your reach Ayacata, the highest point of the day. From there a fast descent through San Bartolomé and Santa Lucía follows. Soon after, the road leads you into the dramatic red rock gorge of Guriete. Once you roll into Vecindario, you are set up for the final stretch along the coast, which brings you back to Maspalomas.