From moderate to challenging, the roads are there – and for mountain bikers too, there’s plenty of challenges.
The landscape is probably unlike anything you have seen – a bit like cycling on the moon, as one enthusiast said. But as you will see, it certainly grows on you.
The main roads are mostly straight, flat and empty of traffic and motorists tend to respect cyclists as well as pedestrians – step on to a zebra crossing and watch the cars slam on their brakes! Now that is something you don’t find in mainland Spain.
But get off the main roads and on to the countless dirt track roads that are passable with care and you will find scores of little deserted beaches and a peacefulness you won’t find on any other of the Canary Islands.
Caleta de Fuste is an ideal cycling base. From here you can explore the north, the south and the far side of the island. One of the most unforgettable routes is to take the road from Caleta to Antigua then Pajara and Ajuy. After taking in the spectacular mountain walk, cycle back out from Ajuy to the main road turn left then try and find the dirt track that takes you down to the ship wreck of the American Star. It is a truly amazing sight. You can find more details of the history of this massive liner and how it came to be resting a few yards off the deserted beach by clicking HERE .
For a challenging, spectacular mountainous route, try the Pajara-Betancuria road. Truly stunning scenery and if you take a few pistachio nuts with you, the almost tame chipmonks way up in the mountains will gently take them from your hand.
Other interesting routes include Caleta-Pozo Negro; Caleta-Corralejo-El Cotillo-Lajares-Villaverde-La Olivia-Caleta; Caleta-Pajara-La Pared/Cofete (spectacular views at the summit); Caleta-Sotavento-Moro Jable
Mountain bikes and ordinary cycles are easily available for hire in Caleta for those not enthusiastic enough to bring their own.
The following was posted in our guest book by cycling enthusiast Andrew Nicholls who plans to tackle Mount Chomborazo in Ecuador on his 60th birthday!
I've survived the week, thanks - 460 miles of pedalling in a blast furnace. I loved it; and the scenery certainly grows on you.
Well I’ve been just about everywhere you can get a road bike to – 460 miles in six days pedalling. Luckily the road to Punta de Jandia isn’t surfaced beyond Moro Jable or that would have been a very long day!
Betancuria from Pajara is a must and the Mirador to the north east is worth the 1km walk (I cycled past the barrier) – it’s the big, best on-road point on the island.
The interior is fabulous. Every shade of pink beige and - it really grows on you!
Great apartment especially the two balconies. Why does no-one else use the pool? I had it all to myself every morning and evening.
I'll stick your email and apartment details on the Cycling Plus newsgroup, if you don't mind, along with a report of what a great base it is for a week's quality biking. People are always looking for something they can book online
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Description: Mountain biking, rock climbing, hiking
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