Adventures in Almuñécar

By Carmen W.

In late February, six members of Hervélo (Carolyn, Janet, Sally, Nicola, Zoe & Carmen) embarked on a week of road cycling in Andalusia. Based at the Hotel Helios in Almuñécar (Hotel Helios Costa Tropical - Hoteles Helios), we were looked after by Matthieu from Vuelta a Costa Tropical (https://vueltacostatropical.cc) who made sure our trip ran smoothly. Whether it was the airport transfers, bike setup, or the planning of routes, Matthieu’s guidance and local expertise were invaluable.

Our kit toning in nicely with the sea and sky!

For some of the group it was their second time cycling with Vuelta a Costa Tropical, so they knew exactly what to expect. But for those who were new to the area, it didn’t take long to adjust to the routine and get into the rhythm of cycling in this beautiful corner of southern Spain.

Every day began with an early breakfast to fuel us for the miles ahead. After the necessary amount of caffeine (more required for some than others!), it was off to the bike room where Matthieu had everything ready and waiting. Each bike had been set up to match the measurements of our own. Some of us even brought our own saddles from home to guarantee an extra bit of comfort.

Thanks to Matthieu for being chief photographer.

With our jersey pockets full of snacks ‘liberated’ from the breakfast buffet (it turns out doughnuts and Tortilla de patatas both travel quite well!), we set off each day eager to explore. Getting out of Almuñécar could initially involve fairly busy roads but once we’d left the town there was very little traffic. A tarmac appreciation society was swiftly formed; the roads were almost eerily smooth - barely a pothole to be found (quite different to home roads!) - which made for an enjoyable ride.

The views were breathtaking, with the mountains on one side and the sparkling waters of the Alboran Sea on the other.

Enjoying the sea views then lunch at a cyclists cafe.

Our rides typically took us on a loop, involving a climb up to a village with winding streets, white-washed buildings, and stunning views where we’d pause for a water bottle refill, a snack and to catch our breath. Then it was time to descend (great fun!) and return to the hotel, stopping at a cafe or two along the way for a well-deserved rest; popular refuelling choices were café con leche, cacaolat and a pan con tomate.

Throughout the week, we rode to a variety of places, including Motril, Lentegi, Nerja, Torrox, Competa, Guajar-Faraguit, Guajar-Alto, Jete, and Molvizar, each with its own unique charm and character. As the kilometres added up and the days went on, we found ourselves becoming more and more comfortable with the terrain, honing our descending skills and sharpening our tan lines (or just becoming a little less pale!).

Up, up, up to the pretty village of Cómpeta!

 It wasn’t non-stop cycling; we had a rest day in the middle of the week where we all found a way to chill out - either by settling in a sunny spot to get stuck into a good book, going for a massage, having a dip in the sea, a snooze by the pool or exploring the castle, roman ruins & botanical gardens in the town centre. We also went out for some traditional tapas with Matthieu and his wife, Marion.

Each evening we had a liquid refreshment while watching the sun set; then off we went for dinner in the hotel where there was a plentiful buffet and other guests eager to know how far we had cycled.

In and around Almuñécar.

 By the end of the week, we had covered a total of 373 kilometres and ascended an impressive 5,276 metres. While our bodies were certainly feeling the strain of the climbs and the hours in the saddle, we were all proud of our achievements. Thankfully one broken spoke and an insect sting were the only mishaps.

With strong (and perhaps slightly tired) legs, we reluctantly packed up our things and said goodbye to Almuñécar & Matthieu, heading back to the colder climes of Scotland. As we boarded the flight home we were all dreaming of our next cycling adventure in the sun, and some were online shopping for new bikes!

 Thanks to Carolyn for discovering Matthieu and arranging the trip.