The best cycling routes around Moclinejo

The Cantal tower is an old watchtower located on a rocky promontory, about 30 meters above the sea. Of Nasrid or Moorish origin, it was part of the coastal defense system and was used to warn of possible pirate attacks by means of smoke or fire signals. Today it is protected as a Site of Cultural Interest and is one of the best spots to enjoy the coastal views.

The Rincón de la Victoria tunnels were excavated in the rock for the old train that connected Málaga with Vélez-Málaga. That train, popularly known as La Cochinita, transported passengers and goods until it stopped running in 1960. Today, crossing these tunnels is a curious way to glimpse the railway history of the Málaga coast, with sea views between one section and another.

Macharaviaya is a small, historic village in the Axarquía region. Nestled peacefully in the hills east of the Costa del Sol, it's ideal for exploring by bicycle, thanks to its narrow streets and rural setting, which offer a scenic route. Macharaviaya is best known for the Gálvez family, who wielded considerable influence in the 18th century. Their legacy can still be found in the Church of San Jacinto, the Gálvez Crypt, and the small museum in the village center. The historic card factory, which once held a monopoly on playing cards in North America, also testifies to the surprising significance of this otherwise tranquil village. Every year in early July, Macharaviaya celebrates the role of Bernardo de Gálvez in the American Revolutionary War—an unusual but vibrant festival for a place of its size. The hilly landscape in the surrounding area offers beautiful cycling routes, such as the route to Iznate and Benamocarra, which leads through olive groves and typical Andalusian mountain landscapes, offering frequent panoramic views of the coast.

Located in the Montes de Málaga, this restaurant is an ideal stop for cyclists exploring the region's mountain trails. The restaurant exudes a rustic, traditional atmosphere, with old tools, jerrycans, and platters evoking the area's agricultural past. The menu features hearty, typical regional dishes such as migas (a type of sausage), Plato de los Montes (a regional specialty), and meat and game dishes—perfect for refueling after a strenuous climb. From the terrace and windows, there are sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making the break particularly worthwhile. Venta Galwey is therefore not only a place for good food but also for relaxation and enjoying the scenery during a cycling tour through the Montes de Málaga.

The ascent to Puerto del León follows a winding, paved road characterized by a consistently steep gradient, particularly noticeable in the switchbacks. The route leads through the foothills of the Montes de Málaga, past wooded slopes, scattered olive groves, and small fields. Upon reaching the upper sections, a view opens up to the mountainous landscape of the Axarquía region, with its gentle mountain ranges and deep valleys. The road itself snakes through the mountains, with the gradient frequently alternating between moderate and challenging, demanding both stamina and pedaling technique. The route, combined with the altitude, offers an intense experience of nature and riding.

The mural honoring "Verdiales and Paco Maroto" by Lalone in Benagalbón is a large-scale graffiti piece on the facade of the local folklore center. The mural pays tribute to the Verdiales, a traditional music and dance form from Málaga, and honors the important musician Paco Maroto. Lalone, a well-known street artist from Málaga, combined a realistic portrait with colorful floral elements that highlight the vibrant character of the local folklore. The work, measuring over one hundred square meters, was created using more than one hundred spray cans and was commissioned by the Rincón de la Victoria town hall. The mural aims to strengthen the cultural identity of the region and was completed in time for the traditional Verdiales competition in Benagalbón.

The Torre Vigía de El Cantal is a 14th-century Moorish coastal watchtower that was part of a defense system against pirates. It stands on a rocky outcrop about thirty meters above the sea. The tower is approximately eight to ten meters high, built of stone and limestone, and was used for signaling with smoke and fire. After the Reconquista, it lost its military significance but remained as a landmark. Today, it is protected as a cultural monument ("Bien de Interés Cultural") and offers a breathtaking view of the coast.

The Paseo Virgen del Carmen in Rincón de la Victoria is a particularly picturesque stretch of the seafront promenade, extending along the rocky coast to the cliffs of El Cantal. The path offers magnificent views of the Mediterranean Sea, and at its end, a small chapel is nestled into the rocks. This section of the Paseo Virgen del Carmen thus impressively combines nature, faith, and art – ideal for a peaceful moment by the sea, especially at sunset when the rocks and the sea are bathed in golden light.