8 reasons why Malaga should be your next winter cycling destination
8 reasons why Malaga should be your next winter cycling destination
Wintertime is many cyclists’ least favourite period of the year. On many days, fickle weather conditions force them to ride indoors to get in the desired amount of training hours. What if we could tell you that it doesn’t have to be this way? That there’s a place where outside winter riding is a joy second to none. That place is called Malaga. Here are eight reasons why this southern Spanish city and province of the same name should top your list for winter riding.
Costa del Sol sunrise
1. The sunny climate
Craving some winter sun? Then Malaga is the place for you! The capital of the famous Costa del Sol enjoys no less than 320 sunny days a year with mild temperatures and blue skies, making it the ideal destination for riding during the coldest months. Explore the mountains and experience how the warm sun creates dreamy winter cycling conditions. Hope you packed your bib shorts!
2. Beautiful landscapes
Inland Malaga - one of the most mountainous Spanish provinces - harbours beautiful landscapes, varying from desolate to lush forest, very often within protected nature parks such as the Sierra de las Nieves. Feast your eyes on endless olive groves, spectacular grey cliff edges and ravines and Mediterranean pine trees… In winter, chances are high that you see snow on some of the highest local peaks, making for a surreal experience in this sunny part of Spain.
Malaga mountains
3. The crystal-clear sea
Once you leave the mountains behind and head south, you’ll be welcomed by the sparkling blue Alboran Sea, the westernmost part of the Mediterranean. Go for a ride alongside the local beaches and immerse yourself in the local Andalusian fishing culture. Must-visits when exploring the Costa del Sol by bike are Marbella and charming whitewashed Nerja.
The Mediterranean Sea
4. Delicious food
For many cyclists, stopping for food or drinks is an integral part of any ride. In Malaga and its surroundings, you are spoilt for gastronomic choice. Visit one of the ventas along the way - traditional mountain restaurants - and indulge in the local specialities. Try the plato de los montes, a dish served in the Montes de Malaga area which includes lomo (cured pork loin), chorizo sausage, French fries, egg, and a roasted pepper. ¡Buen provecho!
A typical Spanish breakfast
5. Low prices
Another major advantage of going to Malaga for a winter cycling break are the low prices. You can go and eat on the cheap, and book accommodation without breaking the bank. Add low-cost flights, and you’ll end up spending way less money than you anticipated, which means more funds for that next dream bike! N+1, anyone?
6. The variety
If you’re looking for a varied cycling destination, Malaga is perfect for you. The city and province are the ideal playground for road addicts, but also cater for mountain bikers and gravel fanatics alike. Local bike companies put the cherry on the cake by showing you around and providing you with the perfect bike for every terrain.
Malaga gravel road
7. Tierra of pros
Tour Malaga province by bike and follow the footsteps of the pros. The Costa del Sol area regularly features in La Vuelta, the biggest multi-day cycling event in Spain. In recent years, some of the best cyclists in the world have tackled famous local climbs such as Puerto del Leon (Malaga), or Peñas Blancas (Estepona), with the latter featuring in this year’s Vuelta. Get in the saddle and give it your all to beat your current best time on Strava.
8. A culture lover’s dream
Resting your legs after some days of intense training is the perfect opportunity to explore the area’s attractive cities and charming villages. The bustling capital of Malaga is known for its many museums (37), while Ronda is picturesquely set above an impressive gorge. Must-see villages include Frigiliana, Comares and Mijas Pueblo.
The village of Comares
About the author:
Lorenz is our local gravel obsessive. After moving to Malaga from his native Belgium, he can be found translating all kinds of cycling-related materials (when he’s not out on the trails). Here he is taking first place in a solo race.