The Vía Verde de la Sierra is also known as Greenway of the Sierra. It is a captivating medium-distance trail that spans 36 miles (60 kilometers) through the rugged landscapes of Andalusia, Spain, following the path of a disused railway line. It connects the towns of Puerto de las Palomas and Cortes de la Frontera, passing through the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park and offering cyclists and hikers the opportunity to explore some of the most beautiful and ecologically diverse areas in southern Spain.
The trail is built on a former railway track that was originally used to transport goods between the towns of Ronda and Cádiz. The route has been thoughtfully preserved, providing a smooth ride for cyclists and an easy path for hikers, with sections made of compacted gravel and paved roads. The trail is relatively flat, with some gentle inclines, making it suitable for a wide range of cycling abilities, including families and recreational riders. Electric bikes are allowed, and many cyclists use them to cover more ground.
The Vía Verde de la Sierra passes through a wide range of natural landscapes, including dense forests, rolling hills, and picturesque valleys. Along the way, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, such as the Sierra de Grazalema and Sierra de las Nieves. One of the most striking features of the trail is its access to a series of tunnels and viaducts, relics of the railway era, which add both historical significance and a sense of adventure to the journey.
For nature lovers, the trail offers ample opportunities to spot local wildlife, including a variety of bird species, deer, and other Mediterranean fauna. Additionally, the surrounding area is rich in history and culture, with several charming towns along the route, such as Ubrique and El Bosque, where visitors can stop for a meal, explore the local attractions, or enjoy traditional Andalusian hospitality.
Whether you’re cycling, hiking, or simply exploring, the Vía Verde de la Sierra provides an immersive outdoor experience that combines the beauty of southern Spain’s natural landscapes with the rich heritage of its towns and villages.
Suggested Lodging
Suggested Lodging Along the Vía Verde de la Sierra 1. Hotel Ubrique • Description: Located in Ubrique, this family-run hotel offers modern accommodations with easy access to the Vía Verde de la Sierra trail and local attractions. • Website: Hotel Ubrique - https://www.hotelubrique.com/ 2. Hotel Finca de los Llanos • Description: A rural hotel in El Bosque, offering a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature and close to the trailhead for a relaxing post-ride stay. • Website: Hotel Finca de los Llanos - https://www.fincadelosllanos.com/ 3. Hotel Los Castaños • Description: Located in Grazalema, this charming hotel offers comfortable accommodations in the heart of a picturesque white village, perfect for resting after cycling or hiking the trail. • Website: Hotel Los Castaños - https://www.hotelloscastanos.com/ 4. Cortijo de las Albardas • Description: A rural guesthouse located near Cortes de la Frontera, offering a peaceful environment for cyclists with access to the surrounding natural beauty. • Website: Cortijo de las Albardas - https://www.cortijodelasalbarda.com/ Booking.comSuggested Dining
Suggested Dining Along the Vía Verde de la Sierra
1. Restaurante El Duque
• Description: Located in Ubrique, this restaurant offers a variety of traditional Andalusian dishes, ideal for cyclists seeking to refuel after a ride.
• Website: Restaurante El Duque - https://www.elduqueubrique.com/
2. Venta el Cortijo
• Description: A great spot in El Bosque offering typical Andalusian cuisine with a focus on grilled meats and regional specialties.
• Website: Venta el Cortijo - https://www.ventacortijo.com/
3. Bar-Restaurante La Cueva
• Description: A casual dining spot in Grazalema offering local Andalusian tapas, making it a perfect place for cyclists to stop and unwind.
• Website: Bar-Restaurante La Cueva - https://www.lacueva.com/
Suggested Bike Rental / Repair
Suggested Bike Rental and Repair Convenient to the Vía Verde de la Sierra
1. Bicicletas Ubrique
• Description: A local bike shop in Ubrique offering bike rentals, repairs, and accessories for cyclists along the Vía Verde de la Sierra.
• Website: Bicicletas Ubrique - https://www.bicicletasubrique.com/
2. Ciclismo Grazalema
• Description: Located in Grazalema, this bike rental and repair shop provides high-quality bikes for all levels, including mountain bikes and electric bikes.
• Website: Ciclismo Grazalema - https://www.ciclismograzalema.com/
Companies That Provide Tours on This Trail
Recommended Tour Companies for the Vía Verde de la Sierra
1. Andalucia Bike Tours
• Description: Offering guided cycling tours along the Vía Verde de la Sierra, this company provides bike rentals, luggage transfer, and support services.
• Website: Andalucia Bike Tours - https://www.andaluciabiketours.com/
2. Vía Verde Cycling
• Description: A local tour company offering self-guided and guided tours of the Vía Verde de la Sierra, including bike rentals, accommodations, and route planning.
• Website: Vía Verde Cycling - https://www.viaverdecycling.com/
