The Best Road Cycling Routes in Malaga - Andalusia

Set out to enjoy the quiet countryside as the route rolls through a string of small Andalusian villages, each with its own feel and character. You pass through Pizarra, Casarabonela, Alozaina, and Guaro, all showing the distinct rhythm of inland Málaga. The opening section follows one side of the Guadalhorce Valley on calm rural roads with steady, gradual climbing. After looping around, the return brings you back along the opposite side of the valley, with a fresh view and a different sense of the landscape. Along the way, Alhaurín el Grande offers a good place for a quick and easy break if you need it.

The route climbs out of Marbella on the steady gradients of Puerto de Ojén, rising through pine woods and rocky hills toward the village of Ojén, then rolling deeper inland past Monda. From there, go west through Coín and El Rodeo, crossing rural roads and open farmland to reach Cártama. Turning south, the landscape shifts again as you approach Alhaurín el Grande, with the Sierra de Mijas rising to your left. The return sends you back over Puerto de Ojén before dropping back to the coast.

From Ronda this route takes you south into Valle del Genal. Beside the incredible views once you leave the main road, the main attraction it the town of Júzcar. For a promotion of The Smurfs movie the town was painted blue in 2013, and the village residents decided to keep it like that. From Júzcar the road goes up again until you reach the main road that connect Ronda with Marbella.

This high elevation loop dives deep into the most rugged and mountainous corners of the province. It feels remote throughout, and the terrain keeps you working. The road goes up and down all day, with almost no flat sections.