The island's unique volcanic terrain offers a mix of brutal ascents and rewarding panoramas, making these routes ideal for preparing for the main cycling season. Whether you're chasing epic mountain passes or scenic rides along the coastline, Gran Canaria is the perfect cycling destination.
What makes this location even more remarkable is its year-round cycling-friendly climate, which makes it ideal for a pre-season road cycling camp. Unlike mainland Europe, where winter conditions can be harsh, Gran Canaria's mild temperatures and well-maintained roads allow for uninterrupted training. Plus, with minimal traffic on many routes and a well-established cycling culture, you'll find plenty of like-minded riders tackling the same famous climbs.
If you're not quite ready to take on these challenges in person, or if you want to preview the terrain before booking your trip, you can experience these legendary Gran Canaria cycling routes virtually on ROUVY. The platform allows you to ride these iconic climbs from the comfort of your home, simulating every gradient change and elevation gain with stunning realism.
The Perfect Blend of Climbs, Descents, and Breathtaking Coastal Roads
One of the biggest draws of cycling in Gran Canaria is the sheer variety of routes available. You can spend the morning grinding up double-digit gradients and then cruise along a coast road in the afternoon. The island's road network is a paradise for those who love long, uninterrupted climbs, technical descents on good road surfaces, and stunning views around every bend.
Unlike some cycling hotspots that can feel overcrowded, Gran Canaria offers plenty of quiet roads where you can find your rhythm without distractions. From iconic climbs like the Valley of the Tears to the legendary Pico de las Nieves ascent, each route presents its own set of challenges and rewards. Below, we dive into five of the best cycling routes in Gran Canaria.
Top 5 Cycling Routes in Gran Canaria, Canary Islands
Tauro Pass, Gran Canaria
If you're looking for a beautiful climb that will test your endurance while rewarding you with jaw-dropping views, Tauro Pass should be high on your list of top cycling road cycling routes and a difficult climb to boot! This 19 km climb packs in 1,200 meters of elevation gain at an average gradient of 6.3%, making it one of the most challenging yet scenic Gran Canaria cycling climbs.
The route features a series of hairpin turns that snake through the rugged volcanic landscape, offering panoramic views of the coastline as you ascend. Traffic is minimal, allowing you to focus on the climb without distractions. What is the best way to prepare for this ascent? Read more in-depth details about Tauro Pass and ride it virtually on ROUVY first to get a feel for the gradients and pacing before tackling it in real life.
- Ride Tauro Pass on ROUVY
Valley of the Tears, Gran Canaria
The name says it all—this brutal climb is infamous among cyclists for its relentless gradients and leg-burning sections. Covering just 11 km, the Valley of the Tears gains an astonishing 1,000 meters in elevation and has a maximum gradient of 25%.
Tackling this climb requires not just physical strength but also mental resilience. It's a test of willpower as much as it is a test of fitness. Proper gearing is essential, as is good pacing—burning out too early will make the final ramps feel impossible. If you want to see what you're up against before attempting it in real life, try it out on ROUVY for a realistic simulation of its punishing slopes.
Serenity Pass, Gran Canaria
Serenity Pass is a hidden gem for a cycling ride in Gran Canaria that's equally challenging and beautiful. This 20-kilometer route, with an elevation gain of 850 meters, offers a more forgiving average gradient of 4.5%, making it ideal for those who want to enjoy Gran Canaria's landscapes without the sheer brutality of the Valley of the Tears.
With smooth tarmac, gently rolling terrain, and stunning views stretching across the island, this pass is a favourite among locals. It also serves as a significant link between the west and south of the island, making it a fantastic mid-ride segment for a longer day in the saddle.
Soria Climb, Gran Canaria
If you like switchbacks and high-altitude views, the Soria Climb in Gran Canaria is a must. This 12 km ascent gains 1,100 meters of elevation at an average gradient of 7%, making it one of the more challenging but rewarding Gran Canaria bike routes.
The remote volcanic terrain adds to the experience, creating a sense of isolation that's perfect for those who love long solo efforts. The higher you climb, the more expansive the views become, culminating in a breathtaking panorama that makes every pedal stroke worthwhile.
Maspalomas to Pico de las Nieves
No list of Gran Canaria cycling routes would be complete without the island's ultimate challenge: the 40-kilometre climb from Maspalomas to Pico de las Nieves. At 2,000 meters, this is an actual test of endurance and pacing.
Starting from sea level, the route to Pico de las Nieves winds through lovely villages and lush forests before unveiling a high-altitude, lunar-like landscape near the summit. With an average gradient of 5.8%, it presents a steady yet unrelenting climb. What's the reward? Reaching the highest point on the island and enjoying a view that stretches as far as Tenerife on a clear day.
Planning Your Cycling Trip to Gran Canaria
If you're interested in experiencing these Gran Canaria routes in person in this perfect cycling destination, the best months for cycling in Gran Canaria are from October to May. The temperatures are mild, and the roads are in perfect condition for long rides.
There are plenty of cycling-friendly accommodations on the island, ranging from hotels that cater specifically to cyclists to rental apartments in key cycling hubs like Maspalomas and Puerto de Mogán. Many bike rental shops offer high-quality road bikes for hire, ensuring you don't need to worry about bringing your own.
Gran Canaria also has a thriving café culture. There are numerous refuelling spots along the way where you can grab a coffee and a pastry before tackling your next climb.
Safety & Essential Tips for Cycling in Gran Canaria
Steep gradients: Proper gearing is essential to avoid high cadence during climbs.
Technical descents: Solid bike-handling skills and good brakes are necessary for safe riding, particularly on rougher road surfaces.
Variable weather: Conditions can change rapidly, so carry an extra layer for warmth.
Puncture risk: Bring spare tubes, a pump, and a multi-tool to address potential issues.
Remote routes: When exploring places like the Valley of the Tears, ensure you have enough water and snacks since refuelling options may be limited.
For those who aren't ready to book a flight yet, ROUVY offers an incredible opportunity to ride these Gran Canaria cycling routes in the Canary Islands virtually. It's a great way to familiarise yourself with the climbs, test your pacing strategy, and build fitness before experiencing Gran Canaria's epic cycling roads in person.
