Cycling trip around Gran Canaria: a road bike tour around the island
Cycling trip around Gran Canaria: a road bike tour around the island
Conquer the Pico de las Nieves and discover one of the best road cycling destinations in Europe.
bike type
Highway
Duration
8 days
Profile
Sport
Distance and slope
363 km / +9860 m
Trip Summary
Tour of Gran Canaria by road bike
Discover one of Europe's most spectacular road cycling destinations with this organized tour of Gran Canaria. Cycle along scenic roads, through ravines, Canary pine forests, and volcanic landscapes while enjoying perfect weather year-round.
The biggest challenge of the trip comes with the ascent of the legendary Pico de las Nieves , although if you prefer a more relaxed stage, there's an equally spectacular alternative route. And if you don't want to travel with your own bike, you can rent a high-end road bike ready to ride.
Reserve your spot for the exclusive April group or enjoy this experience whenever you want with our tailor-made Bikefriendly format , available for groups of just two people. You choose the date and your companions; we'll take care of everything so you can simply enjoy every pedal stroke.
Date and availability
Join the Bikefriendly Club and get an automatic 10% discount for this trip.
Location
Meet our guide
Maxi and Justo
Trip description
Cycling trip around Gran Canaria: a road bike tour around the island
Experience one of the best road cycling experiences in Europe
Cycling around Gran Canaria is a way to discover why the island has become one of the most admired destinations for road cycling enthusiasts. Its year-round privileged climate, scenic roads with very little traffic, and a landscape that changes with every climb make this trip a unique experience for any cyclist.
During this road cycling tour around Gran Canaria, you'll pedal through ravines, Canary pine forests, charming villages, and spectacular viewpoints overlooking the Atlantic. In a single stage, you'll go from sea level to the high mountains, linking challenging mountain passes, unforgettable descents, and roads that seem designed to make every pedal stroke a pleasure.
The biggest challenge of the trip comes with the ascent to Pico de las Nieves , the island's highest point and one of Europe's most iconic mountain passes. This climb will test your legs and reward you with unforgettable views. If you prefer a less demanding stage, you can also take an alternative route to continue enjoying the essence of Gran Canaria.
As with all Bikefriendly cycling trips , we take care of all the organization so you can simply enjoy cycling. You'll have access to routes specifically designed for cyclists, a support vehicle, accessible accommodations, complete logistics, and a specialized team that knows the island inside and out.
If you don't want to travel with your own bicycle, you can also have a high-end road bike , perfectly adjusted and ready to start pedaling from day one.
You can live this experience in our exclusive group departing in April , sharing kilometers with other cycling enthusiasts, or choose the Bikefriendly tailor-made option , available from just 2 people , to travel whenever you want and with whomever you decide.
If you're looking for an organized cycling trip around Gran Canaria that combines legendary mountain passes, spectacular roads, volcanic landscapes, and the peace of mind of traveling with an agency specializing in cycling tours, this is your adventure.
Registrations
Book your place and get ready to discover Gran Canaria on two wheels
Spaces for the group are limited. You can book directly using the purchase button or request more information through the form on this page. We'll help you with any questions so you can focus on one thing: enjoying one of the best road cycling experiences in Europe with Bikefriendly.
Itinerary
Start your cycling trip through Gran Canaria
Start your cycling trip through Gran Canaria
Start your cycling trip through Gran Canaria
Your cycling trip through Gran Canaria begins with your arrival at your accommodation, carefully selected by Bikefriendly and tailored to the needs of cyclists. It's the perfect place to relax, prepare your bike, and start enjoying the island's atmosphere before tackling the first stage of this two-wheeled adventure.
After check-in, you'll have time to settle in, relax and start feeling the island's energy, where the mild climate and proximity to the ocean create the perfect environment for year-round cycling.
Later, we will hold the welcome briefing , a key moment to learn in detail about the route of the Gran Canaria road cycling tour, answer questions, review the stages and receive recommendations from the team about the routes, the mountain passes and the particularities of the terrain.
It will also be time to prepare your bikes: assembly, adjustments, technical checks, and fine-tuning to ensure everything is ready before the first stage. Our team will assist you with everything necessary to guarantee your bike is perfectly suited to the island's challenging roads.
The day will end with a first meeting with the group, sharing enthusiasm, objectives and eagerness to begin a unique cycling adventure that, from the next day, will take you to discover Gran Canaria pedal stroke by pedal stroke.
Stage 1 · From Maspalomas to La Aldea de San Nicolás
Distance
71 km
Elevation
+1600m
Stage 1 · From Maspalomas to La Aldea de San Nicolás
Stage 1 · From Maspalomas to La Aldea de San Nicolás
Wild canyons, scenic roads, and the first big challenge
The adventure begins in Maspalomas , next to the emblematic Dunes Nature Reserve, where the Atlantic Ocean will be the setting for the first kilometers of this cycling trip through Gran Canaria.
After riding along the old coastal road to Arguineguín , we left the coast behind to enter the spectacular Arguineguín Ravine , one of the most authentic landscapes on the island. Here begins the true essence of cycling in Gran Canaria: quiet roads, constant climbs, and a volcanic environment that changes with every pedal stroke.
The climb leads us to the vicinity of Barranquillo Andrés , an ideal place to recover strength before tackling the final kilometers of ascent to reach the highest point of the stage, located at nearly 900 meters altitude.
The reward comes with a spectacular descent through the Mogán Ravine , one of the most breathtaking roads on the island. Linking curves, enormous rock walls, and unforgettable views make this stretch one of the highlights of the day.
After crossing the tranquil Veneguera valley , all that remains is to overcome the final ascent to the Degollada de La Aldea , before letting ourselves be carried away by a long descent that leads us to La Aldea de San Nicolás , a charming Canarian village surrounded by mountains and far from the most touristic areas.
A first stage that perfectly summarizes what awaits you during this road cycling tour of Gran Canaria : demanding mountain passes, spectacular roads and the excitement of discovering a unique island on two wheels.
Stage 2 · From La Aldea de San Nicolás to Agaete
Distance
59 km
Elevation
+1540m
Stage 2 · From La Aldea de San Nicolás to Agaete
Stage 2 · From La Aldea de San Nicolás to Agaete
From volcanic landscape to Atlantic green
The second stage starts in La Aldea de San Nicolás , one of the most authentic and least-traveled places in Gran Canaria. From here begins a spectacular climb through the Barranco de La Aldea ravine , where the road winds between impressive rock walls in a wild environment that reflects the volcanic character of the island.
The steady, demanding climb takes us to the Coruña Junction , located at an altitude of approximately 1.100 meters , one of the key points of the day. Nearby is Artenara , the highest village in Gran Canaria, a perfect place to pause and enjoy the stunning views before continuing the route.
From here, the landscape changes completely. We leave behind the ochre tones of the south and enter the northern slopes, where forests, vegetation, and a much cooler atmosphere appear. This contrast makes this stage one of the most striking of the trip.
The reward comes with a long and spectacular descent towards Agaete , accompanied by magnificent views of the Atlantic and, on clear days, the silhouette of Mount Teide on the neighboring island of Tenerife.
The stage finishes in this charming seaside town, known for its port, excellent cuisine, and peaceful atmosphere. A perfect end to a day that showcases the incredible diversity of landscapes offered by this road cycling tour around Gran Canaria.
Stage 3 · From Agaete to Tejeda
Distance
60 km
Elevation
+1890m
Stage 3 · From Agaete to Tejeda
Stage 3 · From Agaete to Tejeda
Towards the volcanic heart of Gran Canaria
The third stage takes us from Agaete , on the Atlantic coast, to the mountainous heart of Gran Canaria. After covering the first few kilometers along the coast and passing through the historic towns of Gáldar and Santa María de Guía , we leave the urban environment behind to begin one of the most beautiful climbs of the trip.
The road climbs steadily through Canary pine forests, scenic curves, and natural viewpoints until reaching the Mirador de los Pinos de Gáldar , located at an altitude of approximately 1.500 meters . A privileged spot from which to enjoy some of the best views on the island.
After reaching the summit, we arrive in Artenara , the highest village in Gran Canaria, known for its cave houses and stunning natural surroundings. From here, we'll admire one of the archipelago's most iconic landscapes: the Tejeda Caldera , dominated by the majestic Roque Nublo , the island's natural symbol.
The day concludes with a pleasant descent to Tejeda , considered one of the most beautiful villages in Spain. Its peaceful streets, excellent cuisine, and traditional almond sweets provide the perfect ending to a stage that combines challenge, nature, and some of the most spectacular scenery of this Gran Canaria road cycling tour.
Stage 4 · From Tejeda to Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
Distance
85 km
Elevation
+1320m
Stage 4 · From Tejeda to Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
Stage 4 · From Tejeda to Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
Volcanoes, forests and a spectacular descent towards the Atlantic
The fourth stage starts in Tejeda and ventures into the stunning mountainous heart of Gran Canaria. From the very first kilometers, the route offers privileged views of Roque Nublo , the island's iconic natural landmark, as we travel along scenic roads surrounded by a unique volcanic landscape.
After passing through Ayacata , the road leads us to Llanos de la Pez , one of the most spectacular Canary pine forests in Gran Canaria, located at an altitude of over 1.700 meters . Very close by, we can admire Pico de las Nieves , the highlight of the final leg of our journey.
From here begins a long descent towards the northern slope of the island. Before losing altitude, we reach Cruz de Tejeda , one of Gran Canaria's most iconic viewpoints, offering breathtaking views over the caldera and the volcanic landscapes of the interior.
The route continues through Teror , one of the island's most traditional towns, and Firgas , known for its charm and authentic character. Shortly after, we arrive in Arucas , where its imposing neo-Gothic church stands out, before heading towards Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.
The capital city welcomes us along the Atlantic coast after a day that combines high mountains, forests, scenic roads, and an unforgettable descent to the sea. A varied stage that perfectly encapsulates the extraordinary diversity of landscapes offered by this road cycling tour around Gran Canaria.
Stage 5 · From Las Palmas de Gran Canaria to Agüimes
Distance
70 km
Elevation
+1520m
Stage 5 · From Las Palmas de Gran Canaria to Agüimes
Stage 5 · From Las Palmas de Gran Canaria to Agüimes
From the green Atlantic to the volcanic landscape of the south
The fifth stage leaves Las Palmas de Gran Canaria to return to the island's interior and discover a completely different landscape. After passing through Tafira Alta and Santa Brígida , the road climbs through green and peaceful areas until reaching Vega de San Mateo , one of the most charming inland villages.
The climb continues, reaching over 1.000 meters in altitude , from where we'll enjoy a long descent towards the eastern side of Gran Canaria. The route passes through Valsequillo , known for the quality of its artisanal cheeses, and the historic center of Telde , before joining a quiet secondary road ideal for enjoying road cycling.
In the final kilometers, one of the most surprising sights of the day awaits: the Guayadeque Ravine , a spectacular volcanic landscape with deep rock walls that preserves some of the island's most emblematic inhabited caves. Those who wish can take a detour to visit its traditional restaurants carved into the rock and savor Canarian cuisine in a unique setting.
The stage ends in Agüimes , one of Gran Canaria's best-preserved historic towns, whose cobbled streets and tranquil atmosphere offer the perfect place to rest before tackling the queen stage of the trip. A very varied day combining nature, heritage, and some of the most enjoyable roads for cycling on the island.
Stage 6 · Queen stage: conquer the Pico de las Nieves or choose a panoramic alternative
Distance
77 km / 53 km
Elevation
+1990 m / +1070 m
Stage 6 · Queen stage: conquer the Pico de las Nieves or choose a panoramic alternative
Stage 6 · Queen stage: conquer the Pico de las Nieves or choose a panoramic alternative
The final stage brings this Gran Canaria road cycling tour to a close . It's a day designed so that each cyclist can enjoy the end of their trip in their own way, with two routes adapted to different skill levels, but with the same goal: to say goodbye to the island with an unforgettable experience.
Option 1 · The great challenge: ascent to Pico de las Nieves
The time has come to tackle Pico de las Nieves , the highest point in Gran Canaria and one of the most demanding mountain passes in Europe. Starting from practically sea level, you'll face a long climb of nearly 28 kilometers , overcoming a significant elevation gain to reach almost 2.000 meters.
The climb traverses some of the island's most spectacular landscapes, passing through iconic locations such as La Pasadilla , Cuestas de Cazadores , and the Canary pine forests at the summit. The effort is rewarded with unforgettable views over the island and the breathtaking Caldera de los Marteles.
After reaching the summit, you will enjoy a long descent through Llanos de la Pez , Ayacata and the San Bartolomé de Tirajana valley , before returning to Maspalomas , where this great cycling adventure ends.
Option 2 · Alternative route: enjoy without sacrificing the essence of the trip
If you prefer a less demanding stage, we've prepared an alternative route that maintains the beauty of the journey. You'll cycle along quiet mountain roads, passing through volcanic landscapes and traditional villages like Santa Lucía , before rejoining the main route to Maspalomas.
A perfect option to enjoy the last day on the bike without facing the difficulty of the Pico de las Nieves.
Whichever route you choose, this stage marks the end of a cycling trip through Gran Canaria that combines legendary mountain passes, spectacular roads, volcanic landscapes, and the tranquility of discovering the island with the organization and support of Bikefriendly . A trip you'll remember long after you get off your bike.
End of the trip · Farewell to Gran Canaria
End of the trip · Farewell to Gran Canaria
End of the trip · Farewell to Gran Canaria
After breakfast, we will transfer to the airport, bringing this road cycling tour of Gran Canaria to an end.
We say goodbye to an island that has given us spectacular roads, unforgettable ports, unique volcanic landscapes and the privilege of cycling with exceptional weather all year round.
Beyond the kilometers covered and the elevation gain, you will take away the memory of an experience shared with other cycling enthusiasts, the satisfaction of having conquered some of the most emblematic ports of the Canary Islands and the desire to discover new destinations again on the bike.
Thank you for trusting Bikefriendly. See you on the next cycling adventure!
Advantages of booking your event with BikeFriendly
Culture
Gran Canaria boasts a rich cultural and historical heritage that reflects centuries of Atlantic tradition. Iconic landmarks include the Cathedral of Santa Ana in Las Palmas , located in the heart of the historic Vegueta district , and the picturesque town of Teror , with its wooden balconies and the famous Basilica of Our Lady of the Pine , one of the island's most important spiritual centers. Other charming towns include Tejeda , considered one of the most beautiful in Spain, and Agüimes , with its well-preserved historic center and traditional Canarian atmosphere.
Popular festivals are an essential part of Gran Canaria's identity. Celebrations such as the Romería del Pino in Teror , one of the largest in the archipelago, or the lively Carnival of Las Palmas , one of the most famous in Europe, showcase the island's cheerful, festive, and welcoming character.
Climate
A perfect climate to enjoy cycling all year round
Gran Canaria is one of the best destinations in Europe for enjoying a cycling trip at any time of year. Its privileged subtropical climate, with mild average annual temperatures between 20 and 25 °C, more than 300 days of sunshine, and little rainfall, allows you to cycle practically 365 days a year in exceptional conditions.
But the island's true charm goes far beyond its beautiful weather. Its unique topography creates a surprising variety of microclimates that transform each day on the bike into a different experience. While the coastal roads offer a warm and sunny atmosphere with the Atlantic as a backdrop, the inland routes climb towards mountain landscapes where the air is cooler, the vegetation changes completely, and the views reach some of the most spectacular corners of the Canary Islands.
This diversity makes Gran Canaria a unique destination for road cycling enthusiasts, allowing you to link mountain passes, ravines, pine forests, and scenic roads all in a single ride. A true paradise for those seeking a cycling trip that combines good weather, varied landscapes, and unforgettable routes year-round.
Gastronomy
Canarian gastronomy: the best reward after each stage
In Gran Canaria, each day on the bike ends with another of the great pleasures of travel: discovering authentic cuisine, deeply rooted in the land and prepared with high-quality local products. Traditional Canarian cuisine combines simplicity, flavor, and tradition, making every meal an integral part of the experience.
Among its most emblematic recipes are the irresistible wrinkled potatoes with mojo sauce , the nutritious Canarian gofio , the renowned artisanal mountain cheeses —especially those made in areas like Valsequillo— and the excellent fresh Atlantic fish , the star of many restaurants located on the seafront.
For those with a sweet tooth, the island also holds authentic gastronomic treasures such as the traditional almond sweets of Tejeda , ideal for recovering energy after an intense day of cycling. All of this is accompanied by wines with the Gran Canaria Designation of Origin , cultivated in volcanic soils that lend a unique character to each glass.
On this cycling trip through Gran Canaria, you'll discover that gastronomy is as much a part of the journey as the mountain passes or the scenic roads. Because cycling also means stopping, sharing a meal with the group, and savoring the essence of the island after each stage. An experience that combines sport, culture, and the pleasure of discovering Gran Canaria through its flavors.
Land
A paradise for road cycling
Gran Canaria is considered one of the best destinations in Europe for road cycling . Its spectacular volcanic landscape, the quality of its roads, and a privileged climate year-round make the island a true benchmark for those seeking a challenging, varied, and unforgettable cycling trip.
Here, every kilometer beckons you to cycle. The island boasts an extensive network of scenic roads with very little traffic that wind through ravines, Canary pine forests, volcanic landscapes, and natural viewpoints where the Atlantic Ocean accompanies much of the journey. These are routes designed by nature itself for enjoying cycling.
The terrain is predominantly mountainous, with long mountain passes and climbs that start practically at sea level and reach altitudes of over 1.500 meters in just a few kilometers. The absence of long flat sections means that each stage maintains a dynamic pace, linking climbs, descents, and winding roads that test the legs and reward riders with spectacular scenery.
Beyond the sporting challenge, Gran Canaria stands out for the excellent quality of its asphalt and the wide variety of routes, suitable for both experienced cyclists and those who simply want to discover the island while enjoying the pleasure of cycling. It's no coincidence that numerous professional teams choose this destination to prepare for their seasons.
If you're looking for a cycling trip around Gran Canaria that combines mountain passes, iconic roads, volcanic landscapes, good weather and the peace and quiet of riding away from traffic, this island has all the ingredients for one of the best road cycling experiences in Europe.
Included services
Accommodations
Accommodation in double rooms.
Bed and breakfast
Bed and breakfast accommodation in hotels.
Briefing
Welcome briefing with explanation of the routes.
Route itinerary
Tracks of the stages, so that you can load them onto your GPS device or the app you normally use to follow the routes.
Support vehicle
Support vehicle with mechanical service, possibility of changing clothes or getting into the vehicle during the route.
Refreshments en route
Solid and liquid supplies during the routes.
Transfer from Gran Canaria airport
Transfer from Gran Canaria airport to the hotel and return on the last day.
Luggage transfer
Luggage transfer between accommodations.
Not included
Not included
Any service not detailed in Included Services
Arrival at the meeting point and return home
Arrival at the meeting point at Gran Canaria airport and return home at the end of the trip.
Dinners, lunches and drinks
All dinners, lunches and drinks apart from the supplies on the 6 bike routes.
Tourist tax
Tourist tax that each client must pay directly at each hotel.
Additional to hire
Supplement for single occupancy room
If you prefer to sleep alone in the room, hire the supplement.
Assistance and cancellation insurance
If you think something unforeseen may arise, you can take out cancellation or travel assistance insurance.
Bike rental
If you need a rental bike, ask us, we can help you arrange it with a local company.
Non-cycling companion
Your companion will enjoy the accommodation.
Extra night at the end of the trip
If you want to stay a few more nights before going home, you can ask us.
20% discount on a training plan with Sergio Bike
If you book your trip 8 months before the start date, you will receive a 20% discount on the different training plans offered by Sergio Bike.
*See our cancellation policy.
Gallery
REVIEWS
The work being done by Bicycles Without Borders and Bikefriendly is commendable and makes me think there is still hope in the world.
I've seen firsthand that this project is real and not just a gimmick. The idea is truly brilliant, and it's helping many children and adolescents continue their education in a very meaningful way, as it's not a charity, but a means for the local population to develop.
The immersive experience in the country is complete, and traveling around the country by bike helps us feel fully integrated into the environment. In just one week, we've been able to understand and learn a lot about this country and its wonderful people, who are materially poor but spiritually rich.
I take my hat off to the work done by both the guide Sergio and the local team, which included Alpha, my lifelong friend and very professional, as well as Idi, Maurice, and Sidy.
I will definitely recommend this trip.
I recommend it, the routes exceeded my expectations! The hotels were good and the food was very good.
FAQ
I have allergies or intolerances. Can you adapt the menus?
Even though there are refreshment stations... do I have to bring my water and bars?
What will the group's rhythm be?
How are shared rooms?
Where will the support vehicle be?
Do you have any doubt? Ask us!
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