Road Cycling Tenerife – Los Gigantes Route

Exploring the Los Gigantes Route: A Detailed Look at Tenerife’s Best Cycling Experience

If you’re craving a way to combine adventure, stunning scenery, and a bit of physical challenge, this guided road cycling tour around Tenerife’s iconic Los Gigantes cliffs is worth considering. Priced at just under $100 per person, it offers a well-rounded experience that emphasizes beautiful vistas, manageable effort, and small-group intimacy. With a maximum of 10 riders, you can expect a personalized, friendly atmosphere where no one gets left behind.

One of the standout features of this tour is its scenic route along the southwest coast, passing fishing villages, spectacular cliffs, and lush landscapes. We particularly like how the tour includes bike and helmet rental, beverages, snacks, and transfers, making it a practical all-in-one package. That said, it’s worth noting that a moderate level of physical fitness is recommended—so if you’re a casual cyclist or new to mountain or road biking, this might push your limits slightly.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers over 18 with some cycling experience, who want to enjoy breathtaking views without the hassle of planning every detail. If you’re looking for an active day out that’s less about intense cycling and more about enjoying Tenerife’s natural beauty, this could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Small-group experience: Max of 10 bikers ensures personalized attention and safety.
• Includes essentials: Bicycle, helmet, water, snacks, and energy gels are provided.
• Scenic stops: Majestic Los Gigantes cliffs, picturesque villages, and views of La Gomera.
• Moderate effort: 10 km ascent with a 7% incline, suitable for those with some cycling background.
• Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off included for selected hotels.
• Authentic experience: Passing through local villages like Playa de San Juan and Alcalá adds cultural flavor.

Detailed Breakdown of the Tenerife Los Gigantes Cycling Tour

Starting Point & First Impressions

The adventure begins at the Bike Experience Tenerife headquarters in Playa de las Américas—a convenient central spot. Here, you’ll meet your guide, who in this case is likely to be someone like Ivan, mentioned by a reviewer as making the experience engaging and motivating, even during tougher stretches. The bikes provided are carbon road bikes, which are lightweight and designed for efficiency, giving you a real sense of what it’s like to ride on the island’s roads.

The Route & What You Can Expect

The first leg of the journey takes you from the lively tourist hub of Playa de las Américas toward the more traditional fishing villages of Adeje, Playa de San Juan, and Alcalá. Along this stretch, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of the sea and mountains, with the chance to spot La Gomera on the horizon—something that delights many riders, especially those with a penchant for scenic landscapes.

The highlight is the stop at Los Gigantes, where the cliffs loom dramatically above the ocean. One reviewer described it as “the superb route,” emphasizing how striking the cliffs are up close. Standing beneath these ancient rock formations, you’ll understand why they are considered some of the most beautiful in the Canary Islands.

Climb to Tamaimo

From the cliffs, the tour features a 10 km ascent to Tamaimo, with an average incline of 7%. This part is the most physically demanding segment but is manageable with proper pacing. Riders appreciated the motivation from the guide, who kept spirits high during the climb and even played music to boost morale. The ascent offers panoramic views of the coast and inland landscapes—a reward for the effort.

The Descent & Villages

Once in Tamaimo, the route continues with a gentle 3 km incline before descending through Chío and Guía de Isora—small villages that exude traditional charm. Riding downhill here offers a thrilling sense of freedom, combined with scenic vistas of terraced farmland and rugged coastline.

Return & Final Thoughts

The tour concludes back at the starting point, completing a roughly 3-hour journey that balances physical activity with sightseeing. The return ride is smooth, with some riders noting how the biking experience was well-paced and inclusive of refreshments and hydration, which are crucial given Tenerife’s warm climate.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

A major plus is the small-group dynamic; with only up to 10 riders, you get more personalized guidance and safety. The use of quality bikes and helmets ensures comfort and protection, especially important given the terrain and altitude gain.

Plus, hotel pickup (at selected hotels) makes logistics straightforward, avoiding the hassle of transport to the meeting point. The inclusion of snacks, water, and energy gels keeps you fueled without extra expense, a thoughtful touch appreciated by many reviews.

Authentic Experiences & Practicalities

One reviewer, Florent_C, highlighted how the guide used music to motivate during tough parts. This kind of personal touch can make a big difference, especially when facing the more challenging climbs. The spectacular views of the cliffs and the ocean are what many find most memorable, and the route’s mixture of coastal rides, village visits, and mountain ascents offers a balanced taste of Tenerife’s diverse scenery.

Considerations Before Booking

While the tour is priced reasonably considering all included amenities, be aware that a moderate level of cycling experience is required. The climb to Tamaimo can be strenuous for absolute beginners, but those with some cycling background will find it manageable and rewarding. Also, this tour does not include lunch, so plan accordingly if you’re hungry afterward.

Why We Think This Tour Offers Great Value

At just under $100, you’re getting a guided cycling experience through some of Tenerife’s most breathtaking scenery, with all necessary gear and refreshments included. The small group size, combined with expert guidance, makes for a safe and enjoyable ride. Plus, the route itself offers a dynamic mix of coastal, village, and mountain scenery that’s hard to replicate in larger tours or self-guided rides.

The emphasis on authentic local villages and natural wonders means you’re not just ticking off tourist spots—you’re truly experiencing Tenerife’s diverse landscape. The fact that every review we found is a perfect 5-star underscores how well-received this experience is.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re over 18, have some cycling experience, and enjoy active outings with scenic rewards, this tour is ideal. It suits travelers who want to combine exercise with sightseeing without the stress of planning logistics or navigation. It’s also perfect for those who appreciate small-group adventures and value having all gear included.

However, if you’re a complete beginner or prefer very flat terrain, this might be a bit more challenging. Also, those who aren’t keen on cycling uphill or dislike outdoor group activities should consider other options.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup (at selected hotels) is included, making the start and end of the tour hassle-free.

What is the recommended age for participants?
Participants should be over 18 years old, as the tour involves moderate physical exertion and road cycling.

What level of fitness is required?
A moderate level of physical fitness is necessary. The climb to Tamaimo involves a 10 km stretch at about 7% incline, so some cycling experience helps.

Are bikes and helmets provided?
Yes, the tour includes a carbon bike and helmet for each rider, ensuring comfort and safety.

How long does the tour last?
The cycling itself lasts approximately 3 hours, with the entire experience including transfers and breaks.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
It’s best for those with some cycling experience, especially since there’s a climb involved. Absolute beginners may find the ascent challenging.

What should I bring?
Just bring your energy and a sense of adventure—although snacks, water, and gels are provided. Wear comfortable clothes suitable for cycling and the weather.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This Road Cycling Tenerife – Los Gigantes Route offers a fantastic way to see the island’s dramatic cliffs and picturesque villages while enjoying a manageable physical challenge. The combination of stunning coastal views, authentic small villages, and scenic mountain ascents makes it a rewarding experience for those who love outdoor activities and natural beauty.

The inclusion of all essential gear, snacks, and transfers means you can focus on the ride rather than logistics, making this a convenient and enjoyable option. The small-group setup ensures personalized guidance and safety, adding peace of mind for riders of varying experience levels.

If you’re looking for an active day out that balances scenic splendor with a touch of adventure, this tour delivers on all fronts. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want to combine cycling with sightseeing, enjoy the company of like-minded explorers, and capture breathtaking views—making it a memorable highlight of a Tenerife holiday.