The best road cycling routes around Norte O Antequera

The last three miles up to the top are tough, very tough, especially if you start out in malaga. But, it is a crazy looking place, super cool. Big slog to get up there, even with a tailwind!

The Conde de Guadalhorce reservoir is nestled in a picturesque mountain landscape near El Chorro and impresses with turquoise water, steep rock faces and tranquil nature, making it a particularly idyllic destination for tours.

Laguna de Fuente de Piedra is home to large flamingo colonies and is considered one of the most important breeding grounds for this bird species in Europe, where they can be observed particularly well in the warmer months.

The ascent to Puerto del León follows a winding, paved road characterized by a consistently steep gradient, particularly noticeable in the switchbacks. The route leads through the foothills of the Montes de Málaga, past wooded slopes, scattered olive groves, and small fields. Upon reaching the upper sections, a view opens up to the mountainous landscape of the Axarquía region, with its gentle mountain ranges and deep valleys. The road itself snakes through the mountains, with the gradient frequently alternating between moderate and challenging, demanding both stamina and pedaling technique. The route, combined with the altitude, offers an intense experience of nature and riding.

Colmenar, a picturesque village in the Andalusian province of Málaga, was founded at the end of the 15th century after the Christian reconquest of the region. The village's name derives from the Spanish word colmena ("beehive") and recalls the long tradition of beekeeping, which once played a central role here. Thanks to its favorable location in the Montes de Málaga mountains and the lush vegetation, beekeeping was one of the most important sources of income for the population for centuries. Even today, Colmenar is known as the "Village of Honey" and proudly maintains this cultural heritage. Among the village's most important landmarks is the Ermita de la Candelaria, a small 17th-century chapel perched on a hill overlooking the village, offering sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. In the town center stands the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción, a church dating from the 16th and 17th centuries, which impresses with its simple Andalusian style and tranquil atmosphere. At the town entrance, visitors are greeted by the Puerta de la Cruz, a symbolic gate featuring a monolith bearing the village's coat of arms – adorned with a bee and a honeycomb, representing Colmenar's history and identity. A particular highlight is the Museo de la Miel, the "Honey Museum," where visitors can learn all about beekeeping, the work of bees, and honey production. Thus, Colmenar harmoniously blends history, nature, and tradition – a place where the region's past and a deep love for its landscape are reflected in every street and every scent of wild rosemary.

The Torre Zambra is a worthwhile destination for cyclists. The climb to the tower leads through a tranquil, scenic setting with sweeping views of the mountains surrounding Casabermeja. The route is challenging, as it climbs steadily, but rewards with impressive views from the summit plateau. At the top of the tower, you can take a short break to enjoy the expansive view stretching all the way to Málaga and, on a clear day, even to North Africa. The Torre Zambra is therefore an ideal destination for cyclists seeking a sporting challenge and a natural experience.

The climb to El Torcal de Antequera takes you by bike up into one of Andalusia's most impressive natural parks, known for its bizarre karst formations. The winding road climbs steadily and leads through a diverse rocky landscape, where vegetation becomes sparser with increasing altitude. At the top, expansive views, fresh mountain air, and an almost surreal rock world open up. The destination is the Torcal Alto Visitor Center, from where the extraordinary landscape can be experienced with particular impact – a challenging but rewarding climb for experienced cyclists.

Ventorrillo Patascortas in Casabermeja is a traditional restaurant known for its authentic Andalusian cuisine. It is housed in a historic building that originally served as a rest stop for travelers and dates back to the 16th century. Cyclists, in particular, enjoy the restaurant as a stopover during their tours through the picturesque landscape of the Montes de Málaga. The menu includes classics such as grilled meats, migas, hearty stews such as berza, the fish soup gazpachuelo, and homemade desserts. The restaurant is conveniently located on the road from Casabermeja to Arroyo Coche, offering beautiful views of the surrounding area and making it an ideal place to stop during a bike ride.