The best traffic-free bike rides in Montes De Málaga

Ideal for the coffee break.

The Hermitage of Our Lady of Candelaria in Colmenar sits atop a hill overlooking the town and is one of the most important buildings in the Axarquía region. This Baroque chapel was built in the 17th century, its richly decorated chancel dating from 1719. The church consists of a single, rectangular nave with a hemispherical vault over the chancel. The façade, with its round-arched portal, Tuscan pilasters, and a bell gable with three openings, gives the small pilgrimage church its distinctive appearance. Legend has it that it was built in gratitude for the miraculous rescue of sailors who were dedicated to Our Lady of Candelaria. Today, the chapel is considered the spiritual heart of Colmenar and, from its elevated position, offers magnificent views of the surrounding Sierra de Tejeda landscape.

Colmenar, a picturesque village in the Andalusian province of Málaga, was founded at the end of the 15th century after the Christian reconquest of the region. The village's name derives from the Spanish word colmena ("beehive") and recalls the long tradition of beekeeping, which once played a central role here. Thanks to its favorable location in the Montes de Málaga mountains and the lush vegetation, beekeeping was one of the most important sources of income for the population for centuries. Even today, Colmenar is known as the "Village of Honey" and proudly maintains this cultural heritage. Among the village's most important landmarks is the Ermita de la Candelaria, a small 17th-century chapel perched on a hill overlooking the village, offering sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. In the town center stands the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción, a church dating from the 16th and 17th centuries, which impresses with its simple Andalusian style and tranquil atmosphere. At the town entrance, visitors are greeted by the Puerta de la Cruz, a symbolic gate featuring a monolith bearing the village's coat of arms – adorned with a bee and a honeycomb, representing Colmenar's history and identity. A particular highlight is the Museo de la Miel, the "Honey Museum," where visitors can learn all about beekeeping, the work of bees, and honey production. Thus, Colmenar harmoniously blends history, nature, and tradition – a place where the region's past and a deep love for its landscape are reflected in every street and every scent of wild rosemary.

The monument commemorates Don Alfonso Molina Padilla, one of the town's most important figures. Born in Colmenar in 1875, Molina Padilla was a lawyer and politician of the liberal left. He represented the Archidona constituency in the Spanish Parliament and dedicated his life to social causes and education. Having no children, he bequeathed his entire fortune to a foundation he established in his will – the "Fundación Molina Padilla – Orfanato de Jesús y Candelaria." The foundation's aim was to provide underprivileged children and young people from Colmenar with access to education. To this day, the foundation awards scholarships to pupils and students, ensuring the continued impact of his work across generations. A monument honoring his legacy was erected in Colmenar, located in the plaza at the end of Calle Camino de Málaga, near Calle La Nora. The statue depicts Don Alfonso Molina Padilla as a symbol of charity and community spirit – values that he deeply rooted in his home community.

Puerto de El Jaral is not only a geographical crossing, but also a quiet viewpoint where the tranquility of nature and the wide view over the Mediterranean landscape combine – a characteristic destination for cyclists and nature lovers alike.

The Torre Zambra is a worthwhile destination for cyclists. The climb to the tower leads through a tranquil, scenic setting with sweeping views of the mountains surrounding Casabermeja. The route is challenging, as it climbs steadily, but rewards with impressive views from the summit plateau. At the top of the tower, you can take a short break to enjoy the expansive view stretching all the way to Málaga and, on a clear day, even to North Africa. The Torre Zambra is therefore an ideal destination for cyclists seeking a sporting challenge and a natural experience.

Ventorrillo Patascortas in Casabermeja is a traditional restaurant known for its authentic Andalusian cuisine. It is housed in a historic building that originally served as a rest stop for travelers and dates back to the 16th century. Cyclists, in particular, enjoy the restaurant as a stopover during their tours through the picturesque landscape of the Montes de Málaga. The menu includes classics such as grilled meats, migas, hearty stews such as berza, the fish soup gazpachuelo, and homemade desserts. The restaurant is conveniently located on the road from Casabermeja to Arroyo Coche, offering beautiful views of the surrounding area and making it an ideal place to stop during a bike ride.

On the way to Vendomiel, you'll experience a stunning change of landscapes—from the warm Mediterranean coast to expansive olive groves to the fresh mountain air of the Andalusian Sierra. The climb itself is quiet and quiet, ideal for cyclists who appreciate solitude and nature. Once at the top, you'll be rewarded with sweeping views, tranquility, and pristine beauty—a place where you feel like you have Andalusia all to yourself.