Cycling guides and maps in Spain
Prepare your cycling route in Spain
Spain is a pleasant destination for cycling. The climate is often favorable, the landscapes are varied, and there are numerous routes to choose from. Whether you’re traveling for a few days or several weeks, you can find a route that suits you.
Some routes are easy, others more challenging. There are maps and guides to help you plan your route. The country lends itself equally to long journeys and leisurely strolls along designated trails.
Discover Spain by bike
Driving in Spain allows you to cross very different regions. In the north, you’ll find forests, mountains, and a cooler climate. In the south, the landscapes are drier and the sun is more present. In between, you’ll find vast plains, hills, and ancient villages.
Every corner of Spain has its own charm. You pass through olive groves, vineyards, and stone villages. Along the way, it’s not uncommon to come across a Romanesque church, an old bridge, or a castle. Cycling allows you to see all of this at a leisurely pace.
Spring and autumn are the most pleasant seasons for cycling. Summer is often very hot in the center and south. The island of Mallorca is also known for its cycling routes, with beautiful roads and mountain scenery.
The great cycling routes in Spain
- EuroVelo 1 – Atlantic Coast Route : This route crosses the country from north to south. It passes along the Atlantic coast and then through the interior. It features quiet roads, typical villages, and agricultural landscapes. It sometimes follows ancient Roman roads, such as the Via de la Plata. You can also pass through Seville or Salamanca.
- EuroVelo 3 – Pilgrims’ Route : This route largely follows the Camino de Santiago. It crosses regions such as Navarre, Castile, and Galicia. It’s a route steeped in history, with many heritage sites along the way. It passes through the countryside, but also through ancient towns.
- EuroVelo 8 – Mediterranean Route : This route runs along the Mediterranean Sea. It crosses Catalonia, Valencia, Murcia, and Andalusia. It follows the coast, with beaches, coves, and ports. The route passes through cities such as Barcelona, Valencia, and Malaga. It’s an easy and pleasant route to follow.
- The Vías Verdes : Spain has transformed old railway lines into cycle paths. These are called Vías Verdes. They are spread throughout the country. They are safe, car-free, and often flat roads. Ideal for beginners, children, or those who want to cycle stress-free. There are more than 100 of them, covering more than 2,000 km in total.
Useful maps and guides in Spain
To organize your journey, here are some tools to discover:
- Michelin Map of the Costa Brava and Barcelona : Includes an index of localities, scenic routes, and city maps. Includes a map of Barcelona!
- Guide to the Vías Verdes Vol. 2 : It offers 19 greenway itineraries and 4 natural paths and trails, with practical information and stages.
- The Camino Frances – Compostela – cycling and e-bike tours : 918 km of route between St. Jean-Pied-de-Port and Fisterra, useful for cycling to Compostela.
- Mallorca Hiking Map Set – Kompass : 4 1:35,000 cycling maps with cycle paths and city maps.
The cycle network in Spain
Spain has been developing its cycling network for several years. The Vías Verdes (Green Ways) are the most well-known project, but other routes are being created throughout the country. Some regions, such as Catalonia and Andalusia, are adding links between cities, towns, and the countryside.
In large cities, we’re also seeing more and more cycle paths. In Barcelona, Valencia, and Seville, it’s becoming easier to get around by bike. In many regions, you can also combine cycling and train travel.
Spain is an exciting, varied, and rapidly expanding land of cycle tourism. Whether you prefer the sea or the mountains, culture or nature, you’ll always find a map of Spain or a guide to help you plan your route. Between EuroVelo Spain, Vias Verdes, Mallorca map, and Michelin Spain, you’re ready for adventure!