The Best Motorcycle Routes from Málaga
Our Málaga station is ideally placed to ride straight into the finest roads in Andalusia. These are the routes we recommend most to our riders:
Route 1: Málaga – Ronda via the A-397 — the Classic
The ride from Málaga to Ronda on the A-397 is widely regarded as one of the finest motorcycle roads in Europe. The road winds through the Serranía de Ronda with tight hairpins, sweeping views across the Andalusian interior, and almost no traffic. Ronda itself — with the Puente Nuevo bridge spanning the 100-metre-deep El Tajo gorge — is a must-stop. Doable as a return day trip, or continue on to Jerez and Cádiz.
Distance: approx. 100 km | Difficulty: intermediate | Highlights: Serranía de Ronda, Puente Nuevo, Pueblos Blancos
Route 2: Sierra Nevada Loop — the Highest Paved Road in Western Europe
For riders who want real altitude: from Málaga take the A-92 to Granada, then climb the A-395 into the Sierra Nevada National Park. The road to Pico Veleta reaches over 3,000 metres — the highest paved road in Western Europe. Demanding switchbacks, spectacular panoramas, and an atmosphere reminiscent of alpine passes — but with far less traffic.
Distance: approx. 250 km | Difficulty: challenging | Season: May to October recommended
Route 3: Axarquía — Coast and Mountains Combined
This route shows why Málaga is so versatile: start on the coast heading east on the N-340, then turn inland on the A-7207 towards Frigiliana — one of the most beautiful Moorish villages in Andalusia. Continue on the MA-5105 through the Sierra de Tejeda, Almijara y Alhama Natural Park: winding forest roads, white villages, almost no traffic. Perfect for a full day in the saddle.
Distance: approx. 180 km | Difficulty: easy to intermediate | Highlights: Frigiliana, Sierra de Tejeda Natural Park
Route 4: El Chorro and Ardales — Gorge and Reservoir
Head north of Málaga on the A-357 towards Ardales: the El Chorro gorge, home to the famous Caminito del Rey walkway, makes a spectacular stop. The Embalse del Conde del Guadalhorce reservoir offers a stunning backdrop for a lunch break. The roads through the Guadalhorce Valley are quiet and well-surfaced — ideal for newer riders or more relaxed days.
Distance: approx. 120 km | Difficulty: easy | Highlights: El Chorro gorge, Caminito del Rey, Embalse del Guadalhorce
Route 5: The Winter Ride — Costa del Sol in January
While northern Europe is grey and cold, Málaga in winter offers temperatures around 18°C and almost constant sunshine. The coastal road from Málaga to Nerja (N-340 and MA-8300) is perfectly rideable in low season — with very few tourists, a relaxed pace, and a coastline that looks at its best in winter light. A compelling reason to travel in the off-season.
Distance: approx. 120 km | Difficulty: easy to moderate | Highlights: Balcón de Europa (Nerja), Maro-Cerro Gordo sea cliffs, white village of Frigiliana