The best cycling routes in the Canary Islands

The Canary Islands offer a wide variety of touring cycling routes, with over 2,100 options available on komoot. These routes cater to different skill levels, from moderate coastal rides to challenging climbs through volcanic landscapes.

The Canary Islands are known as the 'islands of eternal spring,' offering a mild, subtropical climate year-round. Comfortable temperatures typically range from 20°C to 25°C, making it suitable for touring cycling at any time. The period between September and November can be slightly warmer with minimal rainfall.

The Canary Islands boast incredibly diverse terrain. You can expect everything from challenging mountainous ascents, such as those around Mount Teide in Tenerife or Pico de las Nieves in Gran Canaria, to scenic coastal routes, volcanic plains, and routes through pine forests. Lanzarote and Fuerteventura offer unique arid, lunar-like landscapes, while La Gomera features dense laurel forests.

Yes, there are routes suitable for various skill levels. While many routes are challenging, komoot lists around 270 easy touring cycling routes in the Canary Islands. La Graciosa, for example, offers easy mountain bike routes across its desert-like landscape, leading to beautiful beaches. For a moderate option, consider the North Route, which is 21.4 km long.

Absolutely. The Canary Islands are a popular destination for experienced cyclists, including professional teams, due to their demanding climbs and varied terrain. Routes like Maspalomas, Presa de la Gambuesa, Ayaguares — ride around the Pilancones Natural Park — Gran Canaria and Pico de las Nieves and Roque Nublo Circular offer significant elevation gain and are rated as difficult. Tenerife's Masca climb and Gran Canaria's Valley of the Tears are also renowned for their steep grades.

The routes often pass by stunning natural features and landmarks. In Gran Canaria, you can explore the Pilancones Natural Park or cycle towards Pico de las Nieves and Roque Nublo. Fuerteventura offers views of the Jandia Natural Park and volcanic landscapes around Corralejo. Tenerife is dominated by Mount Teide, and La Gomera features dense laurel forests within Garajonay National Park. You might also encounter highlights like Altavista Refuge or Parador de Las Cañadas del Teide.

Yes, several routes pass by historical sites. For instance, the Castillo de San Gabriel – Los Pocillos Beach loop from Costa Teguise takes you near the Castillo de San Gabriel in Lanzarote. Other notable historical points include the Torre del Conde (Tower of the Count) in La Gomera and the San José Castle in Lanzarote.

Each island offers a unique cycling experience. Tenerife is a cyclist's paradise with challenging climbs to Mount Teide. Gran Canaria, known as a 'miniature continent,' provides diverse and equally challenging routes. Lanzarote offers distinct volcanic landscapes and arid conditions. Fuerteventura is ideal for flatter, coastal rides. La Gomera is great for hilly routes through laurel forests, and La Palma features captivating routes through forests and along rugged coastlines. Your choice depends on your preferred terrain and challenge level.

The Canary Islands are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 7,900 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from volcanic plains to coastal paths, and the year-round pleasant climate. The variety of routes catering to different ability levels is also frequently highlighted.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in the Canary Islands are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the Pico de las Nieves and Roque Nublo Circular in Gran Canaria, or the Corralejo Volcanoes and Dunes Loop in Fuerteventura.

Yes, the Canary Islands offer several long-distance touring cycling routes. For example, the View of the Maspalomas Dunes – Church of Saint Joseph, Fataga loop from Maspalomas is a difficult 89.4 km route. Another option is the Puerto Rico Marina and Beach – Amadores Beach loop from Maspalomas Dunes, which covers 59.5 km.

Popular starting points often include major tourist hubs or coastal towns. For instance, many routes begin in Maspalomas in Gran Canaria, such as the Maspalomas, Presa de la Gambuesa, Ayaguares loop. In Fuerteventura, Esquinzo is a common starting point for tours around the Jandia Natural Park. In Lanzarote, Costa Teguise and Puerto del Carmen are popular for coastal loops.