Cycle Spain, Morocco and Gibraltar

1-Join tour in Gibraltar airport, drive to Algeciras
We begin this journey in Gibraltar airport from where we drive the short distance to the southern Spanish city of Algeciras, one of Europe’s largest ports. Lying besides the Rio de la Miel, the southernmost river in continental Europe, Algeciras is just 40 minutes by road from Gibraltar’s international airport. Strategically im-portant, the city developed under the influence of the Phoenicians and the Romans, go-ing on to thrive under the Moors before being destroyed in the 14th century. Rebuilt by Charles III of Spain in 1760, the city today serves as the main embarkation point between Spain and the Moroccan port of Tangiers.
Overnight: Standard Hotel
Single Room option available

2-Public bus to Tarifa and cycle through the Alcornocales National Park
After breakfast this morning we take a public bus to the lovely Andalucian town of Tarfia, on the southernmost tip of mainland Europe. From here we then begin cycling in the di-rection of the village of Fascinas, and up into the Mediterranean forests of the Alcornocales National Park, home to one of the largest cork forests in the world. Continuing on from here, the last 20 kilometres of our ride then takes us along a good dirt road to the village of Los Barrios, from where we head back to Algeciras. Total cycling distance approximately 60 km. +/- 500 m
Overnight: Standard Hotel
Single Room option available

3-Train to Ronda. Cycle to Jimena de la Frontera through the mountains of Andalusia
Today we journey through the mountainous landscapes of southern Spain. Leaving the hotel early this morning, we begin with a train journey to the historic town of Ronda, dramatically perched high above El Tajo Canyon. After a short visit we then start our ride through the sierras, enjoying some truly stunning views of the Strait of Gibraltar and Morocco, as we make our way along quiet back roads and through an assortment of small whitewashed villages to Jimena de la Frontera. From here we will take the train back to Algeciras. Alternativelly you may wish to cycle an extra 52Km back to the hotel (optional) Total cycling distance approximately 60km (additional 52km optional) +500m/-1,300m
Overnight: Standard Hotel
Single Room option available

4-Ferry to Tangier. Cycle through rolling hills of the Rif Mountains then drive to Chefchaouen
Walking the short distance to the ferry terminal after breakfast we catch the morning boat to Tangiers Med Port (40km from Tangiers). On arrival we then cycle along the coast towards Ksar-es-Seghir, before turning inland and crossing the Rif Mountains. As we meander across the rolling hills of northern Morocco we pass through a number of Berber hamlets and make our way towards the city of Tétouan. Leaving our bikes on the outskirts of Tétouan we then drive into the city, stopping to enjoy a guided tour of the Medina, before continuing on to Chef-chaoeun by bus. Total cycling distance approximately 49 km. +/- 500m
Overnight: Standard Hotel
Single Room option available

5-Free day in Chefchaouen
Nestling amongst the peaks of the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen is one of the most charming towns in Morocco; an engaging mix of blue painted houses, bazaars and red tiled rooftops. Today has been left free for us to explore it at our own pace, to enjoy a stroll through the narrow streets of the old town perhaps, or to relax outside one of the cafes in the main square. Alternatively you may wish to do some optional cycling or treking in the area around Chefchauen (30-60km) A popular destination for tourists, the town is also renowned for its handicraft markets and its locally produced goat cheese.
Overnight: Standard Hotel
Single Room option available

6-Cycle along the Mediterranean coast to Tangiers. Ferry to Algeciras
Departing Chefchaouen this morning we cycle back along the road to Tétouan, turning off to follow the Oued Laou River all the way down to the Mediterranean coast. Following the coast for a short way, we then swap our bikes for a bus and complete the rest of the journey back to Tangiers Med Port by road (a journey time of around an hour and a half). In Tangiers we then take the ferry across to the Spanish mainland, where we end our day back in Algeciras. Total cycling distance approximately 53 km. +500m/-1,000m
Overnight: Standard Hotel
Single Room option available

7-Cycle into Gibraltar and visit the old town
After travelling to La Linea by public bus this morning, we then cycle into Gibraltar on the southern end of the Iberian Peninsula. A British protectorate, whose sovereignty is hotly contested by the neighbouring Spanish, Gibraltar has a long and proud history that is reflected in its rich mari-time traditions. We’ll ride out to the lighthouse at Europa Point and take a walk along the ‘Mediterranean steps’ the historic service trail for the defence systems high up on the rock, affording spectacular views across the Straits before cycling into the old town for a final beer. Then it is back to La Linea to catch the return bus to Algeciras. Total cycling distance approximately 16 km. +/- 300m
Overnight: Standard Hotel
Single Room option available

8-Tour ends Gibraltar airport
After breakfast we drive to Gibraltar airport where the tour ends.

Tour includes:

7 Breakfasts
Transport:
Bicycle, Bus, Ferry
Accommodation:
7 nights Standard Hotel
Tour Staff:
Explore Tour Leader / Driver
Cycling Information:
On this tour we cycle 238 km over five days (an average of 48 km per day) with further optional rides available. We mostly follow provincial roads with little car traffic (93% tarmac roads, 7% good forest trails). Maps are provided to cycle individually or in groups while the tour leader drives the support vehicle, except on days 5 and 7 when the leader will cycle with the group. We have graded the route as moderate.
Group Size:
Generally 10 – 16

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