Granada: E-Bike Adventure on the Old Sierra Nevada Tramway

Thinking about adding a touch of adventure and history to your trip to Granada? This E-bike tour along the old Sierra Nevada tram route offers a unique way to experience the natural beauty and past of this region without the hassle of strenuous hikes. It’s a carefully curated ride that combines scenic landscapes, fascinating history, and some leisurely stops—perfect for those who want to see a different side of Granada away from the busy city streets.

What we really like about this experience is how accessible and relaxed it is, thanks to the electric bikes that make covering the trail effortless. Plus, the guide’s local knowledge helps bring the route to life with stories and insights that you wouldn’t get just wandering on your own. Still, a possible consideration is that this tour isn’t suited for children under 14 or travelers with low fitness levels, so it’s best to check if it’s a good fit for your group beforehand.

This adventure appeals most to nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and those looking for a peaceful escape close to Granada. If you’re after a mix of gentle activity, stunning views, and cultural insights, you’ll likely come away feeling refreshed and inspired.

Key Points

• Unique Route: Follow the historic line of Spain’s first high-mountain railway, now transformed into a scenic bike trail.
• Effortless Exploration: Electric bikes allow you to enjoy the scenery without tiring yourself out, making it suitable for a range of fitness levels.
• Stunning Scenery: Pass through tunnels carved into rock, suspension bridges, and lush chestnut groves, with the Genil River often nearby.
• Charming Stops: Rest at old tram stations, now cozy restaurants, providing perfect spots to relax and soak in the views.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enrich the experience with stories about the land, the railway, and local culture.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for kids up to 18 kg who have prior bike seat experience, but not for very young children or those with low fitness.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Our impression of this tour is that it offers a well-balanced mix of outdoor activity, cultural history, and natural beauty. Starting from the lively Plaza Profesor Fontbote at Casa Valentyna café, the group is transported in a comfortable van to the outskirts of Granada, specifically Güéjar Sierra. This small, picturesque village is just 15 km from the city yet feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle.

From here, you’ll begin your ride on electric bikes, which is a real boon. As we’ve read in reviews, the bikes are good quality, making the journey smooth and enjoyable—“Great bikes, guide and scenery,” as one traveler put it. The electric assist means you can focus on the landscape and the stories your guide shares rather than worrying about pedaling.

The trail itself is a highlight. It follows the path of the old Sierra Nevada tramway, the first high-mountain railway in Spain, which once linked Granada with the mountains. Today, it’s a trail that’s rich with history—testament to engineering feats like tunnels carved into the rock and suspension bridges that stretch across stunning gorges. Travelers mention that walking through these tunnels feels like stepping back in time, and the views are equally captivating.

The route runs alongside the Genil River and through chestnut groves, giving you a real sense of the wilderness that surrounds Granada. It’s a quiet, restorative environment that feels worlds away from the city’s lively streets. Throughout the ride, you’ll find old tram stations, now converted into charming restaurants that serve as ideal spots to pause, relax, and enjoy a snack or drink amid spectacular scenery.

What makes this experience really stand out? For many, it’s the guide’s depth of local knowledge. We loved the way guides not only shared the history but also pointed out flora, bird sounds, and hidden corners of the landscape that most visitors miss. One reviewer described it as a “luxury to listen to birds and enjoy silence,” which perfectly captures the calming effect of this journey.

The tour’s duration is about 4 hours, which is enough time to enjoy a leisurely pace without feeling rushed. The entire experience includes transportation from Granada, the bike ride, and stops, making it a seamless way to connect with nature and history without logistical stress.

What to Expect on the Trail

The tour begins with a short transfer from the city to Güéjar Sierra. Once there, you’ll get your bikes, helmets, and a safety briefing. The route is mostly flat or gently rolling, making it accessible even for casual riders or those with moderate fitness levels. However, it’s not suitable for children under 14 or those with low fitness, as the terrain, while not extreme, still requires a basic level of mobility.

The trail itself is fascinating—passing through tunnels up to a few hundred meters long, carved into the rock by the original railway engineers. Walking through these dark, cool tunnels feels like exploring a forgotten world. Bridges over gorges add a hint of adventure, and the lush scenery, with mountain streams and dense woodland, is like something out of a nature documentary.

Stops at old tram stations are highlights. These are now cozy restaurants or rest spots, where you can sit down, enjoy some local snacks, and take in the scenery. Travelers have noted that the stations are charming and well-placed, making them perfect for brief rests.

Throughout the ride, you’ll listen to birdsong, breathe mountain air, and feel a sense of tranquility. The guide often shares interesting stories about the railway’s history—how it was once a vital link in the region, and now a scenic trail for visitors. It’s an experience that’s about more than just cycling; it’s an immersion into the landscape’s past and present.

The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

The tour is quite flexible regarding timing, with different start times available—check the schedule for the day you plan to go. It lasts about 4 hours, so you’ll want to wear comfortable outdoor clothes suited to the weather, along with sunscreen, sunglasses, and a daypack for essentials. The bikes come with helmets, and the electric assist makes pedaling easier, but good physical condition helps ensure you enjoy it fully.

The meeting point is at Casa Valentyna café, which is open from early morning—perfect if you want to grab breakfast before your ride. The activity includes transportation from Granada, so you don’t need to worry about extra logistics.

The price reflects the quality of the experience—good bikes, professional guides, and the convenience of transportation. Considering you’re covering scenic, historical, and culinary stops, plus having the chance to explore an off-the-beaten-path area, it’s quite reasonable for a half-day adventure.

This tour is not suitable for children under 14 or those with low fitness levels, so plan accordingly. For families with younger children or those seeking a more relaxed experience, this may not be the best choice.

Authentic Reviews and Real Travelers’ Perspectives

One traveler called it “an unforgettable ride through nature’s hidden gem,” emphasizing how peaceful and inspiring the landscape is. They appreciated being picked up in the city and taken to a place where the noise fades away, replaced by birdsong and mountain views.

Another review praised the bikes, guides, and scenery, calling it a “lovely way to escape the heat of the city.” That’s a common theme—many find this trail to be a refreshing break from the urban energy, especially during warmer months.

The guide’s knowledge was highlighted as a major plus. They’re described as friendly, well-informed, and able to share stories that add depth to the experience. This makes the tour not just a bike ride but also an educational one—perfect for travelers who love learning about local history while enjoying the outdoors.

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Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This adventure is best suited for active travelers who enjoy gentle outdoor activities and want to explore the history of Granada’s surroundings. It’s ideal for those who appreciate scenic landscapes, quiet escapes, and cultural stories. If you’re traveling with kids who meet the age and weight requirements, this could also be a family-friendly option, provided they’re comfortable on bikes.

Remember, it’s not designed for very young children or people with low fitness. If you’re looking for a relaxing, less physically demanding experience, you might prefer a more leisurely walk or a guided tour without cycling.

The Sum Up

All in all, this E-bike tour along the old Sierra Nevada tram route offers a lovely mix of stories, scenery, and gentle activity. It’s a great way to explore a part of Granada that few travelers see, with the added bonus of having a knowledgeable guide to bring the landscape to life. The scenic tunnels, suspension bridges, and peaceful stops make it a memorable half-day outing.

If you love nature, history, and a touch of adventure without strenuous effort, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s especially suited to those who want to see more of the region beyond the city’s monuments and streets, in a way that’s relaxed and informative.

For anyone craving a scenic, historical, and leisurely ride through some of Granada’s most beautiful natural spots, this experience offers great value—and a chance to create some wonderful memories.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for children up to 18 kg who have prior experience with bike seats. However, children under 14 or those with low fitness levels might find the ride challenging.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing, a daypack, and a charged smartphone. The bikes are equipped with helmets.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 4 hours, including transportation, riding, and stops.

Do I need to worry about the terrain?
The route is mostly flat or gently rolling, making it accessible for most riders with moderate fitness. It’s not suitable for very low fitness levels or those who dislike biking.

Are the bikes electric?
Yes, the bikes are electric, which helps make pedaling easier and lets you enjoy the scenery without getting exhausted.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is at Casa Valentyna café in Plaza Profesor Fontbote, Granada.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexible booking options.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation from Granada to Sierra Nevada is included, along with liability and accident insurance.

If this sounds like your kind of adventure, it’s worth checking the availability and giving it a try. It’s a solid way to connect with Granada’s natural beauty and history without breaking a sweat—trust me, you’ll enjoy every moment.

You can check availability for your dates here: