Discover the 5 Best Cycling Tourism Races in Spain for 2024

Explore the most exciting and challenging cyclotouring races in Spain. From the historic Gran Fondo Jaén Paraíso Interior to the internationally acclaimed Quebrantahuesos, these events offer unique experiences through the country's most spectacular landscapes.

1. Gran Fondo Jaén Paraíso Interior: An Adventure Among Olive Groves

  • Date: February 11, 2024
  • Distance and Elevation Gain: 99.5 km, 1,800 m accumulated elevation gain
  • Route: Baeza - Úbeda, Jaén
  • Description: Start the cyclotouring year in the heart of Andalusia. This event takes you through dirt roads among olive groves, with a mix of asphalt that challenges the skill of all participants.

Location

  • Near the start/finish of the race: Look for accommodation in Jaén or in towns near the start/finish of the race. This will give you easy access on event day and save you from waking up earlier than necessary.
  • Accessibility: Make sure the chosen location has good access to main roads to arrive at the starting point without complications.

Type of accommodation

  • Hotels: Jaén and its surroundings offer everything from boutique hotels to international chains. A hotel can offer you amenities such as early breakfast on race day and secure places to store your bike.
  • Rural houses: If you prefer a more authentic or intimate experience, rural houses are an excellent option. Many are located in picturesque settings among olive groves.

 

2. The Millars UCI Gran Fondo: World Qualifier in Spain

  • Date: March 10, 2024
  • Distance and Elevation Gain: Options of 177.8 km/2,930 m and 122.1 km/1,805 m elevation gain
  • Route: Villarreal, Castellón
  • Description: The only qualifying event in Spain for the Gran Fondo World Championship. It offers two routes to suit different skill levels, crossing emblematic Castellón landscapes.

Accommodation in Vila-real

1. Vila-real City Center

  • Ideal for: Those who want to be close to the event and enjoy urban amenities.
  • Type of accommodation: Hotels and holiday apartments. Although Vila-real is a relatively small city, it offers several comfortable and accessible options.
  • Price: 40-100 euros per night. Prices vary depending on the quality and services of the accommodation.

2. Vila-real Surroundings

  • Ideal for: Those looking for a quieter experience or wanting to explore the province of Castellón.
  • Type of accommodation: Rural houses and hotels in nearby small towns or on the coast.
  • Price: 50-120 euros per night. Opting to stay in the surroundings can offer a more authentic and possibly more economical experience, especially if you are looking for options outside the city.

Castellón de la Plana

If you prefer or need more options, consider staying in Castellón de la Plana, the provincial capital, located about 8 km from Vila-real.

1. Castellón City Center

  • Ideal for: Accessing a wider variety of services and public transport.
  • Type of accommodation: Wide range of hotels and hostels.
  • Price: 45-150 euros per night, depending on the hotel category and time of year.

3. Mussara Donostia-San Sebastián: Northern Landscapes on Two Wheels

  • Date: April 21, 2024
  • Distance and Elevation Gain: 148 km, 2,840 m positive elevation gain
  • Route: San Sebastián, touring Guipúzcoa and Navarre
  • Description: This event stands out for its spectacular route through northern Spain, offering premium services for participants, from aid stations to mechanical assistance.

1. City Center

  • Ideal for: Those who wish to immerse themselves in the city's cultural and gastronomic life.
  • Type of accommodation: Boutique hotels, holiday apartments, and hostels.
  • Price: 60-200 euros per night. Prices can significantly increase during high season due to the city's tourist popularity.

2. Parte Vieja (Old Town)

  • Ideal for: History and gastronomy enthusiasts who want to be close to pintxos bars and restaurants.
  • Type of accommodation: Rental apartments and charming small hotels.
  • Price: 70-250 euros per night. This area is highly sought after, so early booking is recommended.

3. Gros

  • Ideal for: Cyclists looking for a more local atmosphere and tranquility, while maintaining easy access to the race area.
  • Type of accommodation: Modern hotels, hostels, and holiday apartments.
  • Price: 50-150 euros per night. Gros is an excellent option for its relaxed atmosphere and proximity to Zurriola beach, popular among surfers and young people.

4. Antiguo and Ondarreta

  • Ideal for: Families and those who prefer to be near the beach and away from the hustle and bustle of the center.
  • Type of accommodation: Family hotels and rental apartments.
  • Price: 60-180 euros per night. This area is perfect for those seeking a balance between tranquility and accessibility.

4. Mallorca 312: The Ultimate Cyclotouring Challenge

  • Date: April 27, 2024
  • Distance and Elevation Gain: Options of 312 km/5,050 m, 225 km/3,973 m, and 167 km/2,475 m elevation gain
  • Route: Platja de Muro, Mallorca
  • Description: Known for its beauty and toughness, this race is an icon of European cyclotouring. It runs through the Serra de Tramuntana and offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean.

Accommodation in Mallorca

1. Alcúdia

  • Ideal for: Mallorca 312 participants and spectators, as the race usually starts and finishes in this area.
  • Type of accommodation: Wide range of options, from luxury hotels to budget apartments and hostels.
  • Price: 50-200 euros per night. Alcúdia is a popular starting point for the race, meaning accommodations can fill up quickly and prices may rise during the event.

2. Playa de Muro

  • Ideal for: Those looking to combine the race with a few days of relaxation on the beach.
  • Type of accommodation: Resorts and hotels with direct beach access, ideal for families and groups.
  • Price: 70-250 euros per night. Playa de Muro is close to Alcúdia and offers excellent services and amenities, especially for those traveling with non-cycling companions.

3. Pollença

  • Ideal for: Cyclists who want to train on mountainous routes before the event.
  • Type of accommodation: Boutique hotels, agritourism, and charming rural houses.
  • Price: 60-180 euros per night. Pollença is perfect for those seeking a quieter atmosphere and picturesque surroundings.

4. Palma de Mallorca

  • Ideal for: Visitors who wish to make the most of the island's cultural and gastronomic offerings.
  • Type of accommodation: From luxury hotels to more affordable options in the old town.
  1. Price: 50-250 euros per night. Staying in Palma allows you to enjoy the city and have easy access to the rest of the island, although it requires a bit more planning to get to the race start.

5. Quebrantahuesos: The Legend of the Pyrenees

  • Date: Consult updated dates
  • Distance and Elevation Gain: Gran Fondo (200 km), Medio Fondo (Treparriscos 85 km)
  • Route: Sabiñánigo, Huesca, crossing the Aragonese and French Pyrenees
  • Description: With over 30 years of history, this race is a must for any cyclist. It offers a monumental challenge with four mountain passes and dreamlike Pyrenean landscapes.

Accommodation for Quebrantahuesos

1. Sabiñánigo

  • Ideal for: Quebrantahuesos participants, as it is the city where the race generally starts and finishes.
  • Type of accommodation: Hotels, hostels, and rural houses. There is a variety of options that can fit different budgets.
  • Price: 50-150 euros per night. Prices can vary significantly depending on proximity to the event and services offered.

2. Jaca

  • Ideal for: Those looking to combine race participation with tourism in one of the most emblematic cities of the Aragonese Pyrenees.
  • Type of accommodation: Wide range from hotels to tourist apartments and guesthouses.
  • Price: 60-200 euros per night. Jaca offers a good mix of culture, history, and nature, with prices reflecting its popularity as a tourist destination.

3. Biescas

  • Ideal for: Cyclists who prefer a quieter environment closer to nature.
  • Type of accommodation: Rural houses and hotels, holiday apartments.
  • Price: 70-180 euros per night. Biescas is an excellent option for those looking for a more relaxed atmosphere and direct contact with the natural environment of the Pyrenees.

4. Panticosa

  • Ideal for: Post-race rest and recovery in a mountain setting.
  • Type of accommodation: Spas and hotels specializing in wellness and mountain activities.
  • Price: 80-250 euros per night. Panticosa offers accommodation options focused on rest and recovery, ideal after the demanding Quebrantahuesos.

 

General Accommodation Tips

  • Book in advance: The Mallorca 312 attracts thousands of cyclists from all over the world, so it is advisable to book your accommodation months in advance to secure the best prices and locations.
  • Cyclist-friendly facilities: Look for accommodations that offer specific services for cyclists, such as secure bike storage, basic repair shops, or menus adapted to athletes' nutritional needs.
  • Consider the location: Make sure your accommodation allows easy access to the race starting point, also considering the possibility of exploring the surroundings if you plan to extend your stay.
  • Transportation: Consider renting a car if you are staying far away, especially if you wish to explore or need flexibility to access the race starting point.
Back to News