SpainGRAN CANARIA
Self-Guided Cycling Holiday
SpainThe Best of Gran Canaria
Self-Guided Cycling Tour
Length: 8 Days
Level: 
Price: from €1,490
This self-guided cycling holiday tours around the Atlantic island of Gran Canaria. Combining spectacular cycling routes, with charming towns and excellent hotels, this seven night holiday explores the many faces of this diverse island.
Visit the nearly 2,000m high volcano at Pico de las Nieves. Enjoy the atmosphere and traditional culture in towns such as Aguimes, Tejeda, Arucas, and Agaete. And experience the spectacular scenery; from dramatic rock formations, to stunning coastal roads, and picturesque banana plantations.
Similar to its neighbour Tenerife it is a fantastic island for cycling year round thanks to its sub-tropical climate, excellent roads and incredible coastal and mountain scenery. On this holiday you will also discover its fascinating culture and unique gastronomy as you stay in charmingly authentic towns, a world away from the coastal resorts.
As on all of our tours, there are different route options each day, making the tour accessible to a wide range of riders. Below you can find a detailed itinerary. Click on the tabs to see more highlights, as well as all the practical information about the holiday.
Day 1 - Arrival - Aguimes
We will collect you from Gran Canaria airport and transfer you to the hotel in the historic center of Aguimes.
You can wander the narrow streets of the old town and relax in one of several charming bars and restaurants situated around the main Rosario Square. Aguimes is the most charming town in the south of the island, with a long history dating back to the Spanish conquest of Gran Canaria in the 15th century.
The traditional and laidback atmosphere of Aguimes is a great way to experience Gran Canaria at its most authentic.
You can wander the narrow streets of the old town and relax in one of several charming bars and restaurants situated around the main Rosario Square. Aguimes is the most charming town in the south of the island, with a long history dating back to the Spanish conquest of Gran Canaria in the 15th century.
The traditional and laidback atmosphere of Aguimes is a great way to experience Gran Canaria at its most authentic.
Spectacular Views of the Tirajana Region
Day 2 - La Tirajana Region
After fitting you to the bikes, the riding begins with a beautiful gentle climbing heading up from the coast into the desert-like Tirajana region. There are spectacular views as the road winds its way towards the picturesque village of
San Bartolomé, which makes for a great coffee stop.
The second part of the ride is a rolling descent, with fine views throughout as you pass through the village of Santa Lucía. The excellent road surfaces and lack of traffic make for a lot of fun as you return to Aguimes.
The longer route includes an additional loop to the Ayaguares Reservoir. This extension climbs at gentle gradients, before descending back down towards the southern coast.
Shorter Route: 55km (1,400m Elevation)
Longer Route: 83km (1,950m)
The second part of the ride is a rolling descent, with fine views throughout as you pass through the village of Santa Lucía. The excellent road surfaces and lack of traffic make for a lot of fun as you return to Aguimes.
The longer route includes an additional loop to the Ayaguares Reservoir. This extension climbs at gentle gradients, before descending back down towards the southern coast.
Cycle Routes:
Shorter Route: 55km (1,400m Elevation)
Longer Route: 83km (1,950m)
The roads are typically quiet and smooth around Aguimes
Day 3 - Pico de las Nieves
The rides today climb to the highest point on Gran Canaria - Pico de las Nieves. Situated at over 1,900m altitude, the views from the top are stunning, offering a vantage point
with views overlooking the neighbouring island of Tenerife.
The climb itself is long, but, apart from a couple of short sections, it is mostly quite gentle and you can settle into a nice rhythm. And the overall ride distances are short, giving you plenty of time to both tackle the climb and enjoy the views.
From the top of the climb, the longer route includes an additional shorter climb, while the shorter route descends the short distance to a unique hotel set in the heart of the island.
Situated at 1,400m altitude, the Parador Hotel offers great comfort. It's surrounded by imposing volcanic mountains and charming villages, with unforgettable views of the iconic Roque Nublo.
Shorter Route: 35km (1,700m)
Longer Route: 59km (2,450m)
The climb itself is long, but, apart from a couple of short sections, it is mostly quite gentle and you can settle into a nice rhythm. And the overall ride distances are short, giving you plenty of time to both tackle the climb and enjoy the views.
From the top of the climb, the longer route includes an additional shorter climb, while the shorter route descends the short distance to a unique hotel set in the heart of the island.
Situated at 1,400m altitude, the Parador Hotel offers great comfort. It's surrounded by imposing volcanic mountains and charming villages, with unforgettable views of the iconic Roque Nublo.
Cycle Routes:
Shorter Route: 35km (1,700m)
Longer Route: 59km (2,450m)
Pico de las Nieves
Day 4 - Tejeda & Roque Nublo
After all the climbing yesterday, today's rides are somewhat more leisurely, giving you plenty of time to experience the beauty and charm of inland Gran Canaria.
Following quiet, winding roads, you stay at high altitude throughout the ride, enjoying views of every corner of the island. Highlights include the beautiful village of Tejeda and the dramatic rock formations of Roque Nublo, before returning to the Parador Hotel.
The longer route includes an additional short climb to the traditional village of Artenara, which is well worth visiting if your legs are strong enough!
Shorter Route: 32km (850m)
Longer Route: 50km (1,250m)
Following quiet, winding roads, you stay at high altitude throughout the ride, enjoying views of every corner of the island. Highlights include the beautiful village of Tejeda and the dramatic rock formations of Roque Nublo, before returning to the Parador Hotel.
The longer route includes an additional short climb to the traditional village of Artenara, which is well worth visiting if your legs are strong enough!
Cycle Routes:
Shorter Route: 32km (850m)
Longer Route: 50km (1,250m)
The village of Tejeda is nestled amongst the volcanic peaks, with Roque Nublo in the background
Day 5 - Arucas & Agaete Coast
The routes today are the longest of the holiday, but also some of the easiest, as they descend from the Tejeda region all the way down to Gran Canaria's northern coast.
The scenery changes as volcanic rocks are replaced by vibrant green hillsides, banana plantations and dramatic coastal cliffs; it's almost like entering a completely different country.
Highlights include visiting Teror, Arucas and Galdar - three of the oldest towns in Gran Canaria, all of which have lively old towns and charming squares full of traditional Canarian bars and cafes.
The routes finish in Agaete, where you can enjoy the views of the Tamadaba Natural Park, including a series of spectacular cliffs which extend along the coast. The Agaete valley is also home to some of the finest restaurants in the island - taking advantage of produce grown locally, including bananas, papayas, passion fruit and coffee!
The longer route includes a pleasant ride to the Tamadaba Natural Park, situated on Gran Canaria's west coast.
Shorter Route: 75km (950m)
Medium Route: 90km (1,400m)
Longer Route: 108km (1,950m)
The scenery changes as volcanic rocks are replaced by vibrant green hillsides, banana plantations and dramatic coastal cliffs; it's almost like entering a completely different country.
Highlights include visiting Teror, Arucas and Galdar - three of the oldest towns in Gran Canaria, all of which have lively old towns and charming squares full of traditional Canarian bars and cafes.
The routes finish in Agaete, where you can enjoy the views of the Tamadaba Natural Park, including a series of spectacular cliffs which extend along the coast. The Agaete valley is also home to some of the finest restaurants in the island - taking advantage of produce grown locally, including bananas, papayas, passion fruit and coffee!
The longer route includes a pleasant ride to the Tamadaba Natural Park, situated on Gran Canaria's west coast.
Cycle Routes:
Shorter Route: 75km (950m)
Medium Route: 90km (1,400m)
Longer Route: 108km (1,950m)
Greener scenery in the north of Gran Canaria
Day 6 - Agaete Coast & Risco Caído
From Agaete you head south, following a very scenic road which climbs inland, running parallel to the coast with picturesque sea views.
Near the top of the climb you reach Risco Caído - a UNESCO listed World Heritage Site. The Risco Caído is home to cave-houses and agricultural buildings, dating from before the Spanish conquest of the Canary Islands. It was also the site of an ancient astronomical observatory, which was probably an important religious site of the indigenous Guanche culture.
From Risco Caído, it is mostly downhill as you head back towards the west coast on a beautiful road, full of hairpin bends alongside picturesque mountain lakes and reservoirs.
The longer route includes an additional climb around the small village of Juncalillo. Both routes end in La Aldea de San Nicolas, a traditional town surrounded by tomato farms. This is also an excellent place to try the classic Canarian dish papas arrugadas made from the flavoursome small potatoes grown locally.
Shorter Route: 59km (1,650m)
Longer Route: 81km (2,200m)
Near the top of the climb you reach Risco Caído - a UNESCO listed World Heritage Site. The Risco Caído is home to cave-houses and agricultural buildings, dating from before the Spanish conquest of the Canary Islands. It was also the site of an ancient astronomical observatory, which was probably an important religious site of the indigenous Guanche culture.
From Risco Caído, it is mostly downhill as you head back towards the west coast on a beautiful road, full of hairpin bends alongside picturesque mountain lakes and reservoirs.
The longer route includes an additional climb around the small village of Juncalillo. Both routes end in La Aldea de San Nicolas, a traditional town surrounded by tomato farms. This is also an excellent place to try the classic Canarian dish papas arrugadas made from the flavoursome small potatoes grown locally.
Cycle Route:
Shorter Route: 59km (1,650m)
Longer Route: 81km (2,200m)
The beautiful climb up to Risco Caído
Day 7 - Mogán & South Coast
The final day in the saddle begins with a climb out of La Aldea towards the town of Mogán. The scenery becomes increasingly desert like, with dramatic rock formations and cactuses becoming common once more.
The shorter route descends to the idyllic coastal village of Puerto de Mogán, which makes for a great coffee or lunch stop. From here you take a short ferry ride to the neighbouring town, before finishing the day with a great ride along the coast.
The longer ride instead climbs more towards the center of the island - tackling the iconic hairpin bends climbing to the Mulato viewpoint. From here it is a long and fun descent down to the coast before arriving at the hotel in Maspalomas.
The hotel in Maspalomas is situated just metres from the beach and close to the imposing sand dunes which wouldn't look out of place in the nearby Sahara desert!
Shorter Route: 55km (1,050m)
Longer Route: 69km (1,550m)
The shorter route descends to the idyllic coastal village of Puerto de Mogán, which makes for a great coffee or lunch stop. From here you take a short ferry ride to the neighbouring town, before finishing the day with a great ride along the coast.
The longer ride instead climbs more towards the center of the island - tackling the iconic hairpin bends climbing to the Mulato viewpoint. From here it is a long and fun descent down to the coast before arriving at the hotel in Maspalomas.
The hotel in Maspalomas is situated just metres from the beach and close to the imposing sand dunes which wouldn't look out of place in the nearby Sahara desert!
Cycle Route:
Shorter Route: 55km (1,050m)
Longer Route: 69km (1,550m)
Hairpin bends are always a lot of fun!
Day 8 - Departure / Extensions
After breakfast the tour comes to an end. We will transfer you to the airport in time for your flight home.
If you would like to extend your holiday we would also be happy to arrange this for you, and can transfer you to your next accommodation.
Popular options include staying on the coast around Maspalomas, or visiting the city of Las Palmas - the capital of Gran Canaria.
To find out more information about this holiday; including practical information, prices, dates and more tour highlights; return to the top of the page and click on the various tabs.
If you would like to extend your holiday we would also be happy to arrange this for you, and can transfer you to your next accommodation.
Popular options include staying on the coast around Maspalomas, or visiting the city of Las Palmas - the capital of Gran Canaria.
To find out more information about this holiday; including practical information, prices, dates and more tour highlights; return to the top of the page and click on the various tabs.
It is possible to extend your trip on or off the bike
This cycling holiday crosses much of Gran Canaria, exploring the beauty, culture and tranquility of the island. In particularly, there is a focus on experiencing the diversity and many faces of Gran Canaria.
You will visit the desert like landscapes of the south, the volcanic peaks of the interior, and the vibrant green scenery in the north - home to banana and coffee plantations. You will also visit the most charming towns, ride along beautiful coastal routes and stay in stunning boutique hotels.
Check out just a few of the tour highlights in the photo album below:
You will visit the desert like landscapes of the south, the volcanic peaks of the interior, and the vibrant green scenery in the north - home to banana and coffee plantations. You will also visit the most charming towns, ride along beautiful coastal routes and stay in stunning boutique hotels.
Check out just a few of the tour highlights in the photo album below:
Agaete Coastal Road
The coastal road from Agaete is one of the most spectacular in all of Spain, with incredible views throughout.
Aguimes
Aguimes is one of the oldest towns of the Canary Islands. It was founded in the 15th century, shortly after the conquest of Gran Canaria by Spain, and today houses a charming historic center.
Narrow Streets
The narrow streets of Aguimes are a lot of fun to explore, on or off the bike.
Quiet Roads
All of the routes follow quiet roads, avoiding some of the busy coastal resorts in the south of the island.
Artenara
Artenara is one of several delightful mountain villages that you ride through in the center of the island.
Arucas Cathedral
The town of Arucas makes for a great coffee or lunch stop. The charming streets of the old town are home to excellent, traditional cafes and restaurants. Arucas was also a major producer of Rum in the 15th and 16th centuries, although it might be best to wait until you have finished riding before sampling it!
Winding Roads
The winding roads throughout the island are a lot of fun to ride.
Banana Plants
Bananas are grown in the northern part of the island. You will pass small stalls at the side of the road selling freshly picked fruit, and the bananas make an excellent snack to replenish your energy on a ride.
Warm Weather
Even during winter, the sub-tropical climate of Gran Canaria makes it warm and very pleasant for cycling.
Coffee Dessert
This tasty dessert is made from local coffee, which is grown in the Agaete Valley. You will ride along here on Day 6, with a chance of visiting the coffee plantations, or just sampling the local produce in a restuarant.
Agaete
A view of Agaete from the 'Dedo de Dios' and surrounding coastline.
Agaete Bay
The stunning bay of Agaete is home to dramatic cliffs and a pleasant sandy beach.
Tejeda
Nestled in the mountains, Tejeda is a traditional white village with a lot of charm and character. It makes for a very pleasant lunch stop.
Cruz de Tejeda
You will spend two nights at Cruz de Tejeda in the Parador Hotel. The views are stunning in all directions from this privileged location.
Teror
One of our absolute favourite towns in Gran Canaria, Teror is a historic gem situated in the north-west of the island.
Papayas
Papayas are another of the exotic fruits grown in the north of Gran Canaria.
Looking Over the Edge
There are countless stunning viewpoints throughout the island.
Terraced Fields
These terraced fields form part of the Risco Caído UNESCO World Heritage Site. They have been farmed for hundreds of years prior to the Spanish occupation of the Canary Islands.
Green Scenery
The northern part of Gran Canaria is much greener than the south, and is like entering a whole different country!
Hairpin Bends
There are plenty of hairpin bends to enjoy, particularly if you choose the longer and more mountainous routes.
Excellent Cuisine
Gran Canaria is home to some superb restaurants. Inventive dishes include this Passion Fruit Gazpacho, offered at a restaurant in the Agaete Valley.
Pico de las Nieves
At around 1,900m altitude, this is the highest point on the island. There are great views in all directions. In the distance you can even see the neighbouring island of Tenerife.
Climbing to the Volcano
This serpentine road climbs up to the volcano in the center of the island.
San Bartolome
You will ride this scenic climb to San Bartolome de Tirajana on the first day in the saddle.
Volcanic Rocks
The volcanic rocks provide a distinctive backdrop in many parts of the island.
Descent to the Northern Coast
This long and gentle descent is a lot of fun, with great seat views throughout much of the ride.
Sand Dunes
Maspalomas is home to beautiful sand dunes, which look like the landscapes more commonly seen in the nearby Sahara desert.
Included
- ✔ Seven Nights Accommodation (see the Hotels section for more details)
- ✔ Continental breakfast each day
- ✔ Transfers to and from the arrival and departure points (see below for details)
- ✔ Luggage transferred between hotels
- ✔ GPS routes and mobile app to easily follow the routes
- ✔ Detailed information pack about the routes, restaurants and everything to see along the rides
Not Included:
- ❌ Bicycle Hire (Optional extra €200 - see below)
- ❌ Flights
- ❌ The short ferry ride if you choose the shorter route on day 7 (this costs €11 EUR), and is necessary to take since part of the coastal road collapsed and there is no longer any way through by bike!
- ❌ Tour Extensions
- ❌ Travel Insurance
Bicycles
Bicycle hire is an optional extra for this tour, as we know that some of you may prefer to bring your own. If you would like to rent one from us, we can provide
road bikes, hybrids (trekking bikes) and e-bikes.
If you plan to do the longer rides, we recommend our lightweight carbon road bikes. They have disc brakes, compact chainsets (50-34 teeth) and large cassettes (11-32 or 11-34 teeth) and are optimized for climbing and for being comfortable for long hours in the saddle.
For the shorter routes, hybrids and e-bikes are also a good option - especially if you are more used to riding them at home. In particular we recommend e-bikes if you like the look of the holiday, but are worried about the amount of climbing.
Having the reassurance of the e-bike may help to make the holiday even more stress-free. And you can always switch the motor off if you don't need it! We can provide either road e-bikes or hybrid e-bikes on this tour.
The exact model depends on availability, so please get in touch if you would like more information.
If you plan to do the longer rides, we recommend our lightweight carbon road bikes. They have disc brakes, compact chainsets (50-34 teeth) and large cassettes (11-32 or 11-34 teeth) and are optimized for climbing and for being comfortable for long hours in the saddle.
For the shorter routes, hybrids and e-bikes are also a good option - especially if you are more used to riding them at home. In particular we recommend e-bikes if you like the look of the holiday, but are worried about the amount of climbing.
Having the reassurance of the e-bike may help to make the holiday even more stress-free. And you can always switch the motor off if you don't need it! We can provide either road e-bikes or hybrid e-bikes on this tour.
The exact model depends on availability, so please get in touch if you would like more information.
Difficulty Level & Roads
Gran Canaria is a mountainous island; and there is barely a flat road to be found. However, we have designed routes that are flexible and so the holiday is suitable for riders of a wide range of abilities.
It is rated as Medium-Challenging if you ride the shorter routes, and Challenging-Hard if you ride the longer routes. This is due to the amount of climbing involved rather than the distances.
The most challenging ride is on Day 3 up to Pico de las Nieves, but it is not very long and so you can take your time and enjoy the scenery!
As we mentioned above, if you like the look of the tour, but are concerned by the amount of climbing, then we recommend trying out an e-bike.
The routes are all on paved roads and the surfaces are generally in excellent condition. The traffic tends to be very light on the routes we have chosen, and the drivers are respectful towards cyclists. Gran Canaria has a very laid back feel, with no one (not even car drivers!) seemingly in a rush.
Find out more about our tour difficulty levels here.
It is rated as Medium-Challenging if you ride the shorter routes, and Challenging-Hard if you ride the longer routes. This is due to the amount of climbing involved rather than the distances.
The most challenging ride is on Day 3 up to Pico de las Nieves, but it is not very long and so you can take your time and enjoy the scenery!
As we mentioned above, if you like the look of the tour, but are concerned by the amount of climbing, then we recommend trying out an e-bike.
The routes are all on paved roads and the surfaces are generally in excellent condition. The traffic tends to be very light on the routes we have chosen, and the drivers are respectful towards cyclists. Gran Canaria has a very laid back feel, with no one (not even car drivers!) seemingly in a rush.
Find out more about our tour difficulty levels here.
Arrival and Departure
The main arrival and departure point for the holiday is Gran Canaria airport. However, we can also pick you up from the ferry terminal, or from many other locations, if you are already staying on the island.
Transfers are included at the start and end of the holiday. We also transfer your luggage each day that you move hotels.
If you have trouble finding flights to Gran Canaria airport, please contact us, and we can try to assist.
Transfers are included at the start and end of the holiday. We also transfer your luggage each day that you move hotels.
If you have trouble finding flights to Gran Canaria airport, please contact us, and we can try to assist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Please browse through some of the frequently asked questions about this cycling tour. If you have any further questions, or would like any more information, please contact us and we will answer by email.
Should I do the longer or shorter routes?
This depends entirely on you! The longer and shorter routes all start and finish at the same place, and so you can decide on any given day which you would prefer to do. There is no need to commit until the day of the ride itself.
On the longer routes you see more and are able to visit more places, while the shorter routes are more relaxing and ideal if you like to take your time and go at a slower pace.
When can I do this tour?
This tour is available starting on any day throughout the year. It is particularly popular in winter and spring due to the warm climate, but it is also a great choice in summer.
What is the weather like?
Gran Canaria has a sub-tropical climate, meaning there is little variation in the weather throughout the year. Average daytime temperatures in winter range from 16°C (61°F) to
23°C (73°F), depending on altitude, making it a great choice for a winter cycling holiday.
But the weather is also great in summer, where it doesn't tend to get as hot as in mainland Spain. Average daytime temperatures in summer are around 27°C (80°F). There is also little rain throughout the year.
The two nights in the middle of the holiday are spent at a higher altitude (around 1,400m / 4,500 feet). It is usually still quite warm even at this altitude, but you should be
prepared for slightly cooler conditions here.
Can I personalise or change aspects of this tour?
Absolutely! We have designed a tour that we feel strikes a great balance between cycling routes, accommodation and interesting towns. However, if, for example, you would like to do the tour
for a different number of days, stay in a different level of accommodation, or extend the route to a different location, we would be happy to discuss the options with you.
Why does this tour not stay more on the coast?
The main reason is that we believe that a lot of the better cycling routes and more interesting regions are away from the coast.
When staying on the coast you have to begin most days by riding up 500-1000m of elevation, often on quite busy roads, just to get to the more scenic parts. We think its best to avoid that
and stay in authentic towns more inland.
However, the holiday does spend two nights on the coast in the charming town of Agaete and in Maspalomas. In both of these towns the hotel is situated just a few metres from the beach.
What is your cancellation policy?
The full cancellation policy can be found in out terms and conditions.
Why book with us?
We are a small and independent company who are locally based, which offers several advantages:
- We have a lot personal experience of all of our tours, which have been refined over many years. We believe we are genuine experts in the regions where we run tours, and we are also close at hand to offer support and a personalized service.
- We are flexible and can tailor our itineraries to suit your requirements.
- We have low overheads. We don't spend money on advertising and don't use third party agents. We only sell our tours through this website.
By cutting out the middle man, you can be sure that more of what you pay is
being spent on the important things: like hotels, equipment and other services.
- We are a registered and fully bonded tour operator in accordance with EU regulations.
Hotel Los Camellos
This charming boutique hotel is housed inside a beautiful historic building in the heart of Aguimes, just metres from the cathedral. It has comfortable rooms and there are
several great authentic restaurants nearby.
Parador Hotel - Cruz de Tejada
Situated at around 1,400m (4,500ft) altitude, in the very center of the island, the 4-star Parador Hotel has a really privileged location. There are stunning views from here looking over the island and some of the best cycling routes
on Gran Canaria pass through here.
The hotel itself has large and well equipped rooms; a great swimming pool and superb terraces for relaxing in the late afternoon sun.
The hotel itself has large and well equipped rooms; a great swimming pool and superb terraces for relaxing in the late afternoon sun.
Puerto de las Nieves
Situated just metres from the beach in Agaete, this 4-star hotel combines a great location with comfort and excellent facilities. The indoor swimming pool and spa center is great for relaxing,
and there are several good restaurants and shops near to the hotel.
La Aldea Suites
This 3-star hotel is located in the center of the town of La Aldea. It has large, stylish rooms and excellent facilities, including a swimming pool and jacuzzi.
Corallium Dunamar
A stylish 4-star hotel situated just a few metres from the beach in Maspalomas and within walking distance of the impressive sand dunes. The large rooms are very comfortable and you
can also relax in one of the the hotel's large swimming pools.
To find out more about how we select our hotels, please see our accommodation page.
¹Price is based on two people sharing a double or twin room. If you would prefer to stay in a single room, the single supplement is applicable.
To reserve a place on the tour, click the button above and complete the reservation form. We will then get back to you within 24 hours to confirm the reservation, and to arrange for payment of the deposit.
For more details on the booking process, please check out our Reservations page.
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