Post-pandemic, travellers across the world have become more mindful about health and well-being. As a result, there’s been a noticeable rise in wellness and active outdoor tourism, where people wish to stay healthy, happy and explore destinations in new ways. Among these, cycling tourism has emerged as one of the fastest-growing segments in the past three years.
Europe, with its dedicated cycling paths, stunning scenery and strong biking culture, is truly a paradise for cyclists. Many countries now offer not only intercity but even inter-country cycling routes, giving travellers a chance to discover hidden gems off the typical tourist map.
At Namaste Tourism, we have been curating a variety of such experiences — from recreational cycling tours through quaint towns and local markets to more immersive routes that combine culture, cuisine and outdoor adventure. Belgium, for instance, offers fun “drink and ride” experiences, while Norway, France and Italy have breathtaking cycling routes across their landscapes.
Recently, I had the privilege of revisiting Andalucía — one of Spain’s most vibrant regions — and the historic city of Granada. This wasn’t just a trip; it was a learning experience. I was invited to participate in a cycling workshop and a panel discussion, where I shared my insights on the growing potential of cyclo tourism from India to Europe with tour operators from Spain.
Arrival in Andalucía
I landed in Málaga, the gateway to the Costa del Sol and southern Spain. From here, it’s about a 90-minute drive to Granada. The journey itself is picturesque — olive groves stretch endlessly across the rolling hills and fields of asparagus thrive under the Andalusian sun. These local ingredients are the heart of southern Spain’s authentic culinary traditions.
That evening, we dined at Carmen “Las Tomasas” – a restaurant known not only for its fine cuisine but also for its panoramic night views of the Alhambra Palace. The long day’s travel was worth it — the meal, the setting and the atmosphere perfectly set the tone for the days ahead.
The Cycling Experience
The following morning, we embarked on a 25-kilometre circular e-bike tour through Purullena– surrounded by spectacular mountain views.
Our route was part of the Granada Geopark, a recently declared UNESCO World Heritage Site that spans over 4700 square kilometres. This area offers not just dramatic geological formations but also charming towns that embody the essence of Andalusian culture.
Over the years, cycling technology has evolved tremendously. Unlike the past, when long rides required great endurance, today’s e-bikes with gears make it possible for riders across all fitness levels to enjoy the experience — especially across varying altitudes. We were fortunate to have perfect weather, making the ride all the more enjoyable.
Granada is an excellent base for such activities. Within a short 45-minute drive, you can reach Sierra Nevada, where snow-capped peaks invite skiers during winter. Driving south from Granada for about 45 minutes and you are at the Mediterranean coast — a rare combination where you can enjoy skiing in the morning and the beach in the evening.
Exploring Granada
Most Indian travellers visit Granada as part of a quick day trip — which, in my view, doesn’t do justice to the city’s rich heritage. I would recommend at least two to three nights here to truly absorb its culture, cuisine and atmosphere.
For cycling enthusiasts, Granada offers several options — from mountain biking in the nearby ranges to road cycling through the countryside. Of course, e-bikes are widely available, making it accessible for everyone.
A visit to Alhambra, the city’s crown jewel, is a must. This “Red Fortress” is not only Spain’s most visited monument but also a magnificent symbol of Moorish architecture and history. With over 9000 visitors daily and about 2.5 million visitors annually, pre-booking is essential. The palaces and gardens here are mesmerizing, especially in the golden light of evening.
Granada, was one of the last Muslim kingdoms in Europe, with charming neighbourhoods like Albaicín and Sacromonte, where narrow cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses and the sound of flamenco create an atmosphere straight out of a painting.
Nearby, Antequera is another gem worth visiting — home to dolmens, old churches and lovely countryside trails. And the Granada Geopark, with its canyons and surreal landscapes, is set to become one of Spain’s most sought-after attractions in the years ahead.
Sustainable Tourism and Local Insights
At Namaste Tourism, we believe in promoting sustainable travel — experiences that are active, immersive and leave a minimal footprint. Whether through cycling, running or train journeys, our goal is to create meaningful experiences that connect travellers with local cultures while supporting the environment.
Interestingly, the name Granada comes from the pomegranate tree and the city is often symbolized by this fruit. During our visit to Alhambra, I also learned that Spain’s famous dish Paella actually has Moorish (Muslim) influence — it was originally a simple dish made from leftover rice and shared communally and the influence was very strong in the region of Valencia which is now their national dish
The cycling workshop in Andalucía was incredibly inspiring. It introduced me to new cycling routes being developed in regions like Huelva and Cádiz, with some trails even extending into Portugal — opening up possibilities for cycling itineraries across these two scenic Iberian countries.
One of the most convenient aspects of these tours is that your luggage is transferred between accommodations by surface transport, allowing you to travel light and focus purely on the ride. Typically, cyclists cover around 40 to 50 kilometres a day over 3 to 4 hours, staying overnight in small towns and villages to savour authentic local flavours and hospitality.
A Lasting Impression
In just 48 hours, I managed to get a wonderful glimpse of Granada and its surrounding region. The experience reaffirmed my belief that Andalucía is best explored on two wheels — through its breathtaking landscapes, charming villages and warm local culture.
I am certain I’ll return — next time, hopefully with a group of cycling enthusiasts from India eager to experience the magic of southern Spain in a truly offbeat and sustainable way.
Beautiful beaches, stunning mountain vistas and a culture that embraces life — Andalucía is Spain at its soulful best