Enjoy a challenging variety
of superior bike rides. Every day.
Each day, we ride out from one of San Mateo’s several port roads with our regional guide and me. On the first day, we may head to the
Mediterranean’s Orange Blossom Coast. We pass ancient, historic
towns (one that housed a Pope), colorful fishing villages, and beautiful beaches. This ride is best in the cool months when the sunbathers have left it deserted for us.
Off the coast, the road curves up and in. We climb terraced foothills
brimming with olive, almond, and carob trees. We ride through the
steep villages that punctuate the countryside -places where everyone says “hola”, where turistas are almost unknown, and where the bikers of Cycle España are always welcome. We stop 600 meters up at the ‘Ermita de Los Angeles for a break and to take in the dramatic view. Here, in the 11th century, travelers came to rest and refresh after arduous journeys. Then it’s back to San Mateo.
For the next Stages, we head to the mountains of the lower
Maestrazgo. The wonder of this region is that we can ride for so long
in a concentrated area of 125 square kilometers. The mountain roads switch back and forth very quickly. Each twist reveals another more sensational view. The roads run for about 2000 linear kilometers so we have a lot to choose, ride and see. The altitude starts at 25 meters and rises to 1500 meters.
Our days begin with an ample breakfast. We’re on the road by 9:30.
In cool weather, leg and arm warmers protect against the Maestrazgo’s morning chill. By 11:30, we reach the halfway point, usually in some quaint village.
We stop for an almuerzo, which is like brunch. Tip: Cleat guards on
your shoes prevent slipping on the ubiquitous Spanish tile floors.
We’re back riding by 12:30, for a spirited, down-hill-thrill return to
San Mateo for a late lunch. You have time for a walk, a massage, or
an expedition by car to points of interest and shopping. The day ends with dinner, drinks and lots of good fun.
For an extra-challenging change of pace, we ride to centuries-old
Vallibona. This village of 45 inhabitants hosts us for an overnight. The next day we climb to Morella, a magnificent, perfectly restored, 12th century walled town. We conclude with a marathon descent to the coastal plain and San Mateo.
Fitness Riding. Not touring, not mountain bikes.
Cycle España Bike Tours are designed for road bikers who love to ride without car traffic, for long distances, on great roads, over challenging courses, in hilly and mountainous terrain, beside awe-inspiring vistas, with interesting and knowledgeable people, attended by experienced guides. If that sentence leaves you breathless, check out
RideForm for a FREE fitness ride evaluation.
Each ride has two guides. Our front guide leads those who have the
experience to charge ahead. The rear guard rides with slower riders. We have over 30 routes, so we can customize the tour to accommodate the group. No rider will be left behind. A rider also has the option to switch off and do the
Walks.
Ride with the Pros.
To up the ante, we often tour with Spanish Bike Clubs. These intrepid bikers do the Vuelta de España. They are great fun to ride with and they give you a chance to practice your Spanish.
