The best cycling routes around Santa Brigida

Santa Brigida offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 40 different tours available. These routes cater to various skill levels, from moderate paths to challenging ascents through diverse landscapes.

The terrain around Santa Brigida is incredibly diverse, featuring a blend of fertile plains, volcanic formations like the Caldera de Bandama, and lush ravines such as Barranco de Guiniguada. Cyclists can expect undulating routes with both ascents and descents, offering a mix of road and off-road experiences.

While many routes in Santa Brigida are considered difficult, there are a few options suitable for less experienced cyclists. You can find 2 easy and 3 moderate touring cycling routes, providing a gentler introduction to the region's beautiful scenery.

For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, Santa Brigida offers numerous difficult routes. One such route is the Cassiglio – Piani dell'Avaro loop from Olmo al Brembo, which covers nearly 48 km with significant elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Ponte Umberto – Val Brembana Cycle Path loop from Olmo al Brembo, a long-distance route spanning over 130 km.

Cyclists can explore several striking natural landmarks. The Gremei Hut and Pescegallo Lake are notable highlights. The region is also home to the impressive Caldera de Bandama, an extinct volcanic crater, and the lush Monte Lentiscal natural park, known for its diverse tree species. Don't miss the estimated 500-year-old Dragon Tree in Barranco Alonso.

Yes, you can incorporate cultural stops into your rides. The pre-Hispanic settlement of Atalaya de Santa Brigida features cave houses and traditional pottery workshops. The Parish Church of Santa Brigida, with its neo-Gothic exterior, is a historical landmark. Additionally, the Casa del Vino (Wine House) offers an opportunity to taste local wines within the historic village center.

For breathtaking views, consider routes that ascend to Pico de Bandama, which rises 500 meters and offers magnificent panoramic vistas of the central and eastern parts of the island. The area around the Caldera de Bandama also provides stunning perspectives of the volcanic landscape.

Santa Brigida is generally accessible, and while specific parking areas for each route may vary, the village itself and popular starting points often have designated parking. It's advisable to check local signage upon arrival.

Public transport options are available to reach Santa Brigida, though carrying bicycles on buses might have restrictions. It's recommended to check the local bus schedules and policies regarding bicycle transport in advance if you plan to use public transport to access the routes.

Yes, Santa Brigida offers several options for refreshments. The village market, open on weekends, is a lively spot to find local products like cheese, bread, and honey. The Casa del Vino provides local wine tastings, and various cafes and restaurants can be found within the village and surrounding areas, especially near popular cycling hubs.

The touring cycling experience in Santa Brigida is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 250 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the diverse and captivating landscapes, from volcanic features to lush ravines, and the rewarding views from challenging ascents.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Santa Brigida are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. An example is the Olmo al Brembo – Averara and its namesake valley loop from Olmo al Brembo, which offers varied scenery on a circular path.

Gran Canaria generally enjoys a mild climate year-round, making Santa Brigida suitable for touring cycling in most seasons. However, the spring and autumn months often provide the most comfortable temperatures and less chance of extreme weather, ideal for longer rides and exploring the varied terrain.