Cycling – Via Verde de la Sierra – 36km – Easy Level

A Friendly Look at the Cycling – Via Verde de la Sierra Tour

If you’re exploring Malaga and looking for a leisurely outdoor activity, the Cycling – Via Verde de la Sierra tour might just be your kind of thing. This 36km ride is billed as an easy level experience, making it appealing whether you’re a casual cyclist or bringing family members along. While I haven’t done this ride myself, a lot of glowing reviews suggest it’s a solid option for those wanting to enjoy some beautiful Spanish countryside with minimal fuss.

What really caught my attention about this tour is how highly recommended it is—most reviewers give it a perfect 5-star rating, and 97% say they would recommend it. Plus, it’s a great way to see the diverse landscape of Malaga’s surroundings without the challenge of steep climbs or rough terrain. One of the standout features is the mostly downhill route along a historic railway, which makes it accessible and relaxing. Another plus is the opportunity to see olive groves, tunnels, rivers, and viaducts—the scenery sounds just inviting enough to keep your camera busy.

That said, it’s not without a few considerations. If you’re not used to cycling or if you’re traveling with young children, you’ll want to pay attention to the details about bike sizing and group size. The tour is designed to be friendly for a broad range of skill levels, but it does have some nuances that are worth knowing beforehand. Overall, it seems like an ideal outing for families, casual cyclists, or anyone wanting a scenic, laid-back ride while in Ronda.

In the end, this tour is perfect for those who want a stress-free way to experience the beauty of Spain’s countryside with knowledgeable guides and comfortable equipment. If that sounds like your kind of trip, keep reading—I’ll walk you through what to expect, the real pros and cons, and who should consider booking it.

Key Points

• Scenic and Easy: Perfect for all ages and skill levels, focusing on a mostly downhill route.
• Includes Transportation: Round-trip transfers from Ronda make logistics hassle-free.
• Well-Maintained Equipment: Bikes, helmets, and safety gear are included and are generally praised for their quality.
• Small Group Experience: With a maximum of 8 travelers, it offers personalized attention and a relaxed pace.
• Family-Friendly: Many reviews highlight how suitable this ride is for kids and less experienced riders.
• Flexible Options: The tour is self-guided, with a driver at both start and finish points, which adds to the comfort.

What to Expect on the Via Verde de la Sierra Cycling Tour

This ride is all about enjoying the ride and the scenery. The trail follows a disused railway line, which means you’re cycling on a gentle grade with mostly downhill sections. It’s designed to be accessible, with a self-guided format that lets you go at your own pace. You start in Olvera, about 45 minutes from Ronda, where your guides will pick you up and transfer you to the initial meeting point. The ride ends in Puerto Serrano, where a minibus will pick you up and bring you back to Ronda.

The route takes you through a landscape dotted with olive groves and river views, and you’ll pass through about 30 tunnels—a feature that excites kids and makes the ride more memorable. A few highlights include crossing 4 viaducts and spotting a vulture colony, which adds a touch of wild Spain to your day. The tour also passes by two historic railway stations where you can stop for refreshments, making it a leisurely experience rather than a race.

The ride is known for its peaceful atmosphere and scenic beauty. One reviewer called it “a fantastic bike trail,” highlighting how the ride through tunnels and over bridges provides great views without the stress of handling traffic or steep inclines. The gentle descent means most riders don’t need to worry about strenuous pedaling, making it especially suited for those who want to enjoy a relaxing day out.

The Logistics: How the Day Plays Out

Your day begins with a pickup from your hotel in Ronda, followed by a short drive to the starting point at the old station building in Olvera. The bikes and safety equipment are provided, and the staff is known for their helpfulness and knowledge—many reviewers mention how well-maintained the bikes are and how friendly the guides are.

Once you arrive in Olvera, you’ll start your ride—an approximate 36km journey taking around 5 hours in total, including stops. The route itself is “mostly downhill,” which means you’ll be able to enjoy the scenery without the fatigue of climbing. The tunnels are a highlight, and many comments mention how fun they are, especially when you turn on the bike lights that are supplied.

After completing the route, you’ll arrive in Puerto Serrano, where the minibus will meet you to return to Ronda. This straightforward transfer system is appreciated, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area or don’t want to worry about logistics.

The tour is priced at $160.40 per person, which some might see as a good value considering all the included services—transfers, equipment, guide support, and the scenic experience. The small group size enhances the experience, giving you a more personalized feel and allowing guides to share local insights.

What Reviewers Say About the Experience

Many people comment on how well-organized and enjoyable the ride is. One reviewer praised Santi, the driver, for picking them up and providing abundant local information, “The bikes were ideally suited for the ride and very well maintained.” Others mention how the ride is ideal for families, with many first-time cyclists or those traveling with children noting how manageable the route is.

A common theme is scenery and tranquility. One reviewer said, “It’s mostly downhill and offers a scenic and safe experience with a nice rest stop about halfway along.” Several reviews also highlight how helpful and accommodating the staff are—whether adjusting plans for weather, providing small bikes for children, or answering questions about the route.

Of course, some reviews touch on minor inconveniences. For example, if someone is very tall or very small, there might be bike sizing challenges. One review pointed out that they could only get one small enough bike for very petite riders, which meant others had to sit out. It’s worth confirming in advance if you have specific needs.

The Value of the Tour

At around $160, the price includes transfers, equipment, and a scenic route that’s accessible for most. Given that you’re in a beautiful part of Spain, with the added bonus of guided support and time to soak in the views, many find this to be quite reasonable. Several reviews remark on how well the bikes are maintained and how smooth the entire process is, making it a hassle-free outing.

For families or those who aren’t regular cyclists, the downhill nature and the short, manageable distance make this an inviting choice. The ride’s relaxed pace, combined with the opportunity to explore tunnels, viaducts, and countryside, makes it more than just a workout—it’s an engaging way to see a different side of Spain.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after a scenic, gentle ride that combines nature, history, and a touch of adventure, this tour ticks those boxes. It’s best suited for families, casual cyclists, or groups with mixed abilities who want a relaxed experience with stunning views. Because of the self-guided format, it also works well for travelers who prefer a bit of independence but with the comfort of organized transfers.

Those looking for a more challenging or longer cycling day might want to explore other options, but for a half-day outing that feels more like a scenic sightseeing trip than a fitness challenge, this is a winner.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children? Many reviews mention that the route is good for families, especially since it’s mostly downhill and quite gentle. Kids enjoy the tunnels and scenery, but it’s best to check bike sizing if you’re bringing very young children.

What’s included in the price? The fee covers all necessary cycling and safety equipment, round-trip transfers from Ronda, and the guided support. The route itself is self-guided, but the driver and staff are available for assistance.

How long is the ride? The route is approximately 36km and typically takes about 5 hours, including stops at cafes and tunnels. The ride is designed to be relaxed and scenery-focused.

What about weather considerations? The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund. Good weather makes for the best experience, especially for cycling.

Are there any age or skill restrictions? The ride is accessible for most skill levels and ages, but very small children or those requiring bikes for specific sizes might need to confirm availability beforehand. The small group size allows for some flexibility.

How do I book? The tour is popular, so booking 20 days in advance is recommended. You can choose the mobile ticket option for convenience.

Final Thoughts

The Via Verde de la Sierra cycling tour offers a relaxed, scenic, and family-friendly way to enjoy the beautiful landscapes near Ronda. With well-maintained bikes, helpful guides, and a route packed with tunnels, viaducts, and countryside views, it’s a solid choice for anyone wanting to combine outdoor activity with sightseeing.

While it’s not the most challenging ride out there, it delivers on comfort, accessibility, and natural beauty. Perfect for those who want a stress-free day out with a touch of adventure and a lot of pretty views. For travelers seeking a gentle, memorable cycling experience that’s suitable for all ages and abilities, this tour might just be the highlight of your trip to Malaga’s surrounds.

Ready to pedal your way through stunning Spanish scenery? If you love scenic routes, easy rides, and a chance to see the countryside in a relaxed way, this tour is well worth considering. Just remember to book ahead and confirm bike sizes if needed—then prepare for a day of enjoyable cycling and beautiful sights.