Pico Veleta from Pradollano via the Hoya de la Mora

The natural continuation of the Sierra Nevada climb: from the Pradollano ski resort you carry on to the Hoya de la Mora, where the National Park barrier stops cars, and from there along the old Veleta road, closed to traffic, zigzagging up to the summit. The first kilometres above the barrier have old but rideable tarmac; the final stretch is broken up, with loose stone and gravel, so a gravel bike or at least wide tyres is a good idea. You ride above 2,000 metres the whole time: the air is thinner and the weather changes fast, so bring a windproof and warm clothing even if it's hot down below. Water and bars only in Pradollano and at the Hoya de la Mora; there is nothing at the top. It can be ridden from late June to early October, when there is no snow. Respect the National Park rules: stay on the road, don't head off onto the footpaths, and look out for the Park minibuses that drive up in summer. Before you go, check with the Park for closures due to snow or roadworks.

Track designed by our editorial team on OpenStreetMap (ODbL).