Tour Type: Guided Bike Tour
Province: Granada
Duration: 3 Nights/ 4 Days
Cycle Days: 3 Days
Min Number of Participants: 4
Ave Cycling per day: 50 Km
Difficulty level: Easy / Moderate
Total Riding distance: 127 Km
Start & End at: Granada
Bicycle Type E – Bike
Embracing Sustainable Journeys
At Bike and Hike Granada, we’re dedicated to redefining travel through sustainability. Our tours are thoughtfully crafted to promote conscious exploration, focusing on minimizing our ecological footprint and fostering positive societal growth within local communities and economies.
TOUR- AT A GLANCE
The Vía Verde del Aceite is one of Spain’s longest greenways, stretching an impressive 120 kilometers. As one of the few Vías Verdes to exceed 100 km, it offers the perfect distance for a multi-day cycling adventure. Winding through the southern reaches of the Andalusian provinces of Córdoba and Jaén, the route follows the path of the old “Oil Train” (Tren del Aceite) railway.
Here, oil doesn’t come from the earth—it flows from olives. Olive oil, often called the true liquid gold of Andalusia, is ever-present along this trail. Between the starting point in Jaén and the endpoint in Puente Genil, you’ll pedal past tens of thousands of olive trees and through spectacular landscapes, including protected areas like the Sierras Subbéticas Natural Park.
Along the way, you’ll discover charming historic towns such as Zuheros, Lucena, and Martos, each worth a stop. The trail is well-maintained and ideal for leisurely cycling. Starting in Jaén means the route trends gently downhill, and like all Vías Verdes, it features mild gradients—a legacy of its railway past—making it accessible for most riders.
The daily stages are moderate, giving you plenty of time to explore and enjoy the scenery. With tunnels, viaducts, and sweeping views, the Vía Verde del Aceite is a journey through both nature and history
Highlights
A Journey Through the Past: The Rise and Fall of Andalusia’s Railways
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Spain underwent a rapid expansion of its railway system, spurred by industrialization and the need to connect isolated rural areas with major cities and ports. In Andalusia, this led to the construction of dozens of branch lines — often narrow-gauge and privately operated — designed primarily for freight such as minerals, olives, and wine.
However, many of these lines proved unsustainable in the long term. The challenging terrain, low population density in rural areas, and growing competition from road transport, especially after the 1950s, led to the gradual abandonment of these railways. By the late 20th century, thousands of kilometers of track lay unused and deteriorating, a quiet symbol of industrial decline.
Rather than letting these corridors fade into obscurity, Spain saw an opportunity. In the 1990s, the Vías Verdes program was launched to reclaim these disused railway lines and transform them into accessible, non-motorized routes for cyclists, hikers, and even equestrians. Andalusia, with its wealth of abandoned lines and stunning natural backdrop, quickly became one of the most active regions in this initiative.
WHAT TO EXPECT
The guide will give a detailed briefing on each day’s ride and an introduction to the bicycles with continued advice throughout the day and will cycle with the group. The driver as well as the tour leader takes care of day-to-day bike maintenance. In addition, the guide will explain and show interesting facts to get to know the true beauty of Andalusia; its traditions, cuisine, history, and landscapes.
Throughout the tour, we organize several outdoor picnics with a great variety of local products. The expected arrival at the hotel will be at a respectable hour to allow you to enjoy and appreciate the place. A cycling day takes between 5- and 6 hours including breaks and lunches.
The bicycles are provided with panniers to allow you to carry some basic things, a water bottle, helmet, etc.
Who Can Participate
The Olive Oil Greenway Cycling E bike tours are designed for individuals with a moderate level of fitness who enjoy cycling and seek an active yet leisurely adventure. These tours are also ideal for those new to cycle touring who wish to explore the countryside in a unique and engaging way.
Each day’s ride covers distances between 35-45 km, with an average cycling speed suited to the terrain. We will mostly traverse rolling hills and gravel roads, with a few challenging climbs. Some participants may choose to ride in the support vehicle if needed. On average, we will spend 4–6 hours cycling each day, with occasional longer rides. There will also be regular breaks, lunch stops, and visits to notable sites along the way.
It is important to ensure you are physically prepared for the tour’s level of difficulty. Due to the unpredictable nature of the weather, conditions may vary, potentially making some activities more challenging. If the guides determine you are unable to complete a scheduled activity, they may ask you to ride in the support vehicle for that day, prioritizing your safety and the well-being of the group.
If you have any doubts about your fitness level, please reach out to our Adventure Consultants who can provide additional guidance
Climate
The region has a Mediterranean climate with plenty of sunshine and long daylight hours, even in winter. In spring and autumn, temperatures range from 8°C to 19°C, while summer temperatures can reach 22°C to 35°C, and often higher. At higher elevations, temperatures are slightly cooler. Rainfall is minimal. In winter, nights can be quite cold, with daytime temperatures averaging around 12°C.
BICYCLE
We provide high-quality E- BIKES with pannier bags for carrying luggage, allowing the bike to take the weight rather than your shoulders. When booking, you indicate your height and weight to have the correct frame size of the bicycle at the start of your holiday.
Biking in Andalucia:
Most roads are in good condition, and we take scenic country routes to steer clear of heavy traffic and soak in the beauty of the landscape. However, occasional potholes can appear, so staying attentive is key while enjoying the surroundings. As you approach or depart from towns and cities, traffic tends to increase, but if needed, your guides are always available to lend a helping hand.
Cycling the Vía Verde del Aceite from Jaén to Puente Genil is a delightful journey through the heart of Andalusia. Spanning approximately 120 km, this well-maintained greenway follows the former “Oil Train” railway line, offering a gentle, mostly flat route ideal for cyclists of all levels
Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or a casual rider, the Vía Verde del Aceite offers a memorable and accessible way to explore Andalusia’s countryside.
Arrival and Departure info:
Your Bike and Hike Granada guide will meet you at Plaza Mariana Pienda or your hotel at 8:00 AM on Day 1 of your trip. The journey will conclude on the final day at 18:00 PM, with drop-off options at the airport, bus terminal, Hotel or Plaza Mariana Pienda.
Scheduled to operate
If four persons books a trip on a specific date, the departure is guaranteed. For trips with only one or two guests, we will contact you before your final payment
Trips with fewer than four guests may be led by a single guide who also serves as the driver, providing full support with a BHG van. If you prefer to have two guides, please consult your trip advisor, as this may involve an additional cost due to the minimum participant requirement not being met.
In rare cases, unforeseen circumstances may require trip cancellations or modifications. Our Guest Services team will keep you informed of any changes. We reserve the right to cancel a departure due to force majeure or if third-party partners, such as hotels, cannot fulfill their reservations. In such cases, all payments made will be fully refunded, constituting full settlement. Bike and Hike Granada is not responsible for expenses related to canceled trips, including airline tickets, travel delays, flight cancellations, or illness. We strongly recommend purchasing your own travel insurance for full coverage.
Travel Insurance
It is your responsibility to secure appropriate travel insurance for your trip. This should include coverage for trip cancellation, activities such as hiking,Cycling trip curtailment, as well as sufficient medical insurance for illness, injury, and medical repatriation. We also strongly recommend having insurance to cover your travel arrangements, including flights, and your personal belongings.
We encourage you to do your own research to find the insurance policy that best suits your needs.
Accommodation and Meals
Accommodation:
Our selection of accommodations has been thoughtfully curated to enhance your journey, blending exceptional locations with a unique personal touch, making your trip an unforgettable experience.
Your stay at these accommodations includes breakfast and offers excellent service, often complemented by amenities such as a restaurant, bar, garden, and swimming pool included, ensuring you’re well taken care of.
The standard room type is the Standard Double Room, designed for double occupancy, featuring two individual beds or a double bed for couples.
To ensure a comfortable and harmonious experience, room assignments are made considering the gender of the travelers. Private rooms / single supplements can be arranged for individuals who prefer not to share accommodations with other group members, subject to an additional cost. It’s important to note that a request for a single room must always be made in advance due to limited hotel capacity.
Meals:
Meals are included as outlined in the Tour Inclusion details, breakfast provided each day. At Bike and Hike Granada, we prioritize great food, and you can look forward to enjoying excellent regional cuisine throughout the trip.
On the evenings when you are free to choose your own dinner, your guide will recommend local dining options and assist with making reservations. They will ensure you have all the information needed to explore the local dining scene independently.
Optional:
A Journey Through the Past: The Rise and Fall of Andalusia’s Railways
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Spain underwent a rapid expansion of its railway system, spurred by industrialization and the need to connect isolated rural areas with major cities and ports. In Andalusia, this led to the construction of dozens of branch lines — often narrow-gauge and privately operated — designed primarily for freight such as minerals, olives, and wine.
However, many of these lines proved unsustainable in the long term. The challenging terrain, low population density in rural areas, and growing competition from road transport, especially after the 1950s, led to the gradual abandonment of these railways. By the late 20th century, thousands of kilometers of track lay unused and deteriorating, a quiet symbol of industrial decline.
Rather than letting these corridors fade into obscurity, Spain saw an opportunity. In the 1990s, the Vías Verdes program was launched to reclaim these disused railway lines and transform them into accessible, non-motorized routes for cyclists, hikers, and even equestrians. Andalusia, with its wealth of abandoned lines and stunning natural backdrop, quickly became one of the most active regions in this initiative.
WHAT TO EXPECT
The guide will give a detailed briefing on each day’s ride and an introduction to the bicycles with continued advice throughout the day and will cycle with the group. The driver as well as the tour leader takes care of day-to-day bike maintenance. In addition, the guide will explain and show interesting facts to get to know the true beauty of Andalusia; its traditions, cuisine, history, and landscapes.
Throughout the tour, we organize several outdoor picnics with a great variety of local products. The expected arrival at the hotel will be at a respectable hour to allow you to enjoy and appreciate the place. A cycling day takes between 5- and 6 hours including breaks and lunches.
The bicycles are provided with panniers to allow you to carry some basic things, a water bottle, helmet, etc.
Who Can Participate
The Olive Oil Greenway Cycling E bike tours are designed for individuals with a moderate level of fitness who enjoy cycling and seek an active yet leisurely adventure. These tours are also ideal for those new to cycle touring who wish to explore the countryside in a unique and engaging way.
Each day’s ride covers distances between 35-45 km, with an average cycling speed suited to the terrain. We will mostly traverse rolling hills and gravel roads, with a few challenging climbs. Some participants may choose to ride in the support vehicle if needed. On average, we will spend 4–6 hours cycling each day, with occasional longer rides. There will also be regular breaks, lunch stops, and visits to notable sites along the way.
It is important to ensure you are physically prepared for the tour’s level of difficulty. Due to the unpredictable nature of the weather, conditions may vary, potentially making some activities more challenging. If the guides determine you are unable to complete a scheduled activity, they may ask you to ride in the support vehicle for that day, prioritizing your safety and the well-being of the group.
If you have any doubts about your fitness level, please reach out to our Adventure Consultants who can provide additional guidance
Climate
The region has a Mediterranean climate with plenty of sunshine and long daylight hours, even in winter. In spring and autumn, temperatures range from 8°C to 19°C, while summer temperatures can reach 22°C to 35°C, and often higher. At higher elevations, temperatures are slightly cooler. Rainfall is minimal. In winter, nights can be quite cold, with daytime temperatures averaging around 12°C.
BICYCLE
We provide high-quality E- BIKES with pannier bags for carrying luggage, allowing the bike to take the weight rather than your shoulders. When booking, you indicate your height and weight to have the correct frame size of the bicycle at the start of your holiday.
Biking in Andalucia:
Most roads are in good condition, and we take scenic country routes to steer clear of heavy traffic and soak in the beauty of the landscape. However, occasional potholes can appear, so staying attentive is key while enjoying the surroundings. As you approach or depart from towns and cities, traffic tends to increase, but if needed, your guides are always available to lend a helping hand.
Cycling the Vía Verde del Aceite from Jaén to Puente Genil is a delightful journey through the heart of Andalusia. Spanning approximately 120 km, this well-maintained greenway follows the former “Oil Train” railway line, offering a gentle, mostly flat route ideal for cyclists of all levels
Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or a casual rider, the Vía Verde del Aceite offers a memorable and accessible way to explore Andalusia’s countryside.
Arrival and Departure info:
Your Bike and Hike Granada guide will meet you at Plaza Mariana Pienda or your hotel at 8:00 AM on Day 1 of your trip. The journey will conclude on the final day at 18:00 PM, with drop-off options at the airport, bus terminal, Hotel or Plaza Mariana Pienda.
Scheduled to operate
If four persons books a trip on a specific date, the departure is guaranteed. For trips with only one or two guests, we will contact you before your final payment
Trips with fewer than four guests may be led by a single guide who also serves as the driver, providing full support with a BHG van. If you prefer to have two guides, please consult your trip advisor, as this may involve an additional cost due to the minimum participant requirement not being met.
In rare cases, unforeseen circumstances may require trip cancellations or modifications. Our Guest Services team will keep you informed of any changes. We reserve the right to cancel a departure due to force majeure or if third-party partners, such as hotels, cannot fulfill their reservations. In such cases, all payments made will be fully refunded, constituting full settlement. Bike and Hike Granada is not responsible for expenses related to canceled trips, including airline tickets, travel delays, flight cancellations, or illness. We strongly recommend purchasing your own travel insurance for full coverage.
Travel Insurance
It is your responsibility to secure appropriate travel insurance for your trip. This should include coverage for trip cancellation, activities such as hiking,Cycling trip curtailment, as well as sufficient medical insurance for illness, injury, and medical repatriation. We also strongly recommend having insurance to cover your travel arrangements, including flights, and your personal belongings.
We encourage you to do your own research to find the insurance policy that best suits your needs.
Accommodation and Meals
Accommodation:
Our selection of accommodations has been thoughtfully curated to enhance your journey, blending exceptional locations with a unique personal touch, making your trip an unforgettable experience.
Your stay at these accommodations includes breakfast and offers excellent service, often complemented by amenities such as a restaurant, bar, garden, and swimming pool included, ensuring you’re well taken care of.
The standard room type is the Standard Double Room, designed for double occupancy, featuring two individual beds or a double bed for couples.
To ensure a comfortable and harmonious experience, room assignments are made considering the gender of the travelers. Private rooms / single supplements can be arranged for individuals who prefer not to share accommodations with other group members, subject to an additional cost. It’s important to note that a request for a single room must always be made in advance due to limited hotel capacity.
Meals:
Meals are included as outlined in the Tour Inclusion details, breakfast provided each day. At Bike and Hike Granada, we prioritize great food, and you can look forward to enjoying excellent regional cuisine throughout the trip.
On the evenings when you are free to choose your own dinner, your guide will recommend local dining options and assist with making reservations. They will ensure you have all the information needed to explore the local dining scene independently.
Driving distance: 106 Km
Activity: Sightseeing
We’ll begin the day with a pickup from Granada, and drive to the start point of the Via Verde del Aceite near Las Fuentezelas Sports centre Today we will have the opportunity to explore this delusion city with its rich cultural heritage. Around the beautiful cathedral, you will find a network of charming streets with shops, cafes and restaurants. Guide will take you for a short sightseeing
Evening Guide will explain to you the History of The Vía Verde del Aceite route. And we will fix up our cycles and do a short test ride to make sure everything is comfortable. And the day will end with a dinner
Cycling Distance: 49 Km
Today marks the beginning of our cycling adventure along the Vía Verde del Aceite, with a 49-kilometer ride ahead. We start by sharing the trail with local residents who use this greenway daily—a gentle introduction to the rhythm of rural Andalusia.
The route begins with a gradual ascent as we make our way to Torredelcampo. Before reaching Torredonjimeno , we pass through our first tunnel and cross two impressive old viaducts, remnants of the former railway that once transported olive oil through this landscape.
From here, the next town—Martos—comes into view, nestled dramatically at the base of a striking rock formation. The trail then leads us toward the Guadajoz River, crossing the Salado Viaduct, passing the Vado-Jaén station, and continuing on to the magnificent Víboras Viaduct at kilometer 43—one of the visual highlights of the day.
We’re now approaching our overnight destination Alcaudete. A short but noticeable climb takes us from the Vía Verde into the heart of the town. The effort is well worth it. Alcaudete boasts one of the best-preserved castles of the Knights of Calatrava, offering a glimpse into its medieval past. As you explore, you’ll also find renowned confectionery factories and a maze of charming narrow streets, making Alcaudete a memorable place to end our first day.
Cycling Distance: 33 Km through
After leaving Alcaudete behind, the trail takes us past the serene Laguna Honda, a picturesque lagoon nestled among olive groves. This tranquil spot is a haven for birdlife and a perfect place to pause and enjoy nature.
We soon leave the province of Jaén and cross an elegant viaduct over the Guadajoz River, officially entering the province of Córdoba. Our next landmark is the charming Luque station, now repurposed as a restaurant, complete with preserved train carriages that echo the route’s railway heritage.
Crossing a metal bridge, we reach Baena, renowned for its exceptional extra virgin olive oil. The town features a restored castle, historic olive mills, and a vibrant connection to Andalusian culinary tradition.
Continuing along the trail, we are treated to breathtaking scenery. Highlights include the dramatic castle of Zuheros, perched atop a rocky outcrop, the rugged Bailón River canyon, and sweeping views of the Sierras Subbéticas Natural Park, a UNESCO Global Geopark.
After passing Zuheros, it’s a short ride to our destination for the day Doña Mencía. If time allows, consider a detour to the nearby Cueva de los Murciélagos (Bat Cave), one of the most important archaeological and geological sites in the region.
Don’t miss the chance to explore the town itself. Stroll down the famous Calle de las Flores, and we will be visiting the Wine Museum, where you can sample local wines and learn about Montilla wine, a distinctive and cherished product of the Córdoba countryside.
Cycling Distance: 45 Km
Driving Distance: 155 Km
Today marks the final day of cycling. You say your goodbyes to the charming Dona Mencia and head towards Cabra. The route leads you past trenches carved into the rocks from the Civil War era, through the Plantio tunnel, and across the La Sima viaduct near Cabra station. Here, you can admire the impressive steam locomotive that once powered the “Oil train” for decades. Continuing on towards Lucena, you’ll cycle through tree-lined avenues offering pleasant shade. Both Cabra and Lucena are worth a detour off the Via Verde to explore their charming centers.
As the end of your journey on the Via Verde del Sol approaches, olive trees give way to small vineyards of the D.O. Montilla-Moriles. At the Las Navas del Selpillar station, an open-air museum provides fascinating insights into the region’s important agricultural heritage. Finally, you arrive in Puente Genil, where a vehicle awaits to transport you to Granada, marking the end of your cycling adventure.
Fixed Departure
SEPTEMBER 14, 2025 SEPTEMBER 17, 2025
OCTOBER 12, 2025 OCTOBER 15, 2025
MARCH 08, 2026 MARCH 11, 2026
APRIL 12, 2026 MAY 15, 2026
MAY 10, 2026 MAY 13, 2026
JUNE 14, 2026 JUNE 17, 2026
