Travelers seeking an active way to explore the captivating landscapes of La Palma will find this guided road bike tour a perfect fit. Covering about 60 km with 900 meters of elevation gain, it offers a balanced mix of climbs, descents, and flat stretches that showcase the island’s diverse scenery. The combination of expert guides, top-tier bikes, and authentic landscapes makes for a memorable experience, especially for those comfortable on a bike and eager to see La Palma from a different perspective.
We particularly like the small group size—limiting to six participants—which means personalized attention from guides and a less crowded atmosphere. The stunning views of volcanoes and lush forests are undoubtedly a highlight, and the route’s variety keeps the ride engaging. However, the six-hour duration and moderate difficulty level may be a consideration for travelers with limited cycling experience or those looking for a less physically demanding activity. This tour is ideal for active travelers, cycling fans, and those wanting a genuine taste of La Palma’s natural beauty.
Good To Know
- Diverse landscapes: From volcanic fields to dense forests and coastal roads, the route offers a full sensory experience.
- High-quality bikes: The use of carbon racing bikes ensures a smooth and comfortable ride, even over longer distances.
- Expert guidance: Guides speak multiple languages (DE/ES/EN), providing local insights and safety tips.
- Included transfer: The transfer from Los Llanos to Refugio El Pilar simplifies logistics and maximizes riding time.
- Flexible booking: Reserve now with the option to pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance with a full refund.
- Ideal for active travelers: Suitable for those with a basic fitness level who enjoy cycling and outdoor adventures.
Introduction and First Impressions
This tour promises a well-rounded look at La Palma’s southern scenery without the hassle of planning each detail yourself. We love the idea of starting from Los Llanos de Aridane and heading straight into some of the island’s most iconic sights—on a high-quality carbon road bike. It’s a great way for cyclists to experience La Palma’s natural beauty while enjoying a comfortable, guided ride.
The small group limit—only six participants—ensures you get personalized attention from guides who are fluent in English, German, and Spanish, making the experience accessible to many travelers. We also appreciate the flexible booking options, which allow you to reserve now and pay later, perfect for those planning trips during uncertain times.
One potential consideration is the duration of six hours—for some, that might be a long day on the bike—so riders should be comfortable with moderate physical exertion. Still, with the route thoughtfully designed to include plenty of scenic stops and a variety of terrain, it’s suited for anyone with a basic fitness level who wants to take in La Palma’s stunning vistas without feeling overwhelmed.
The Itinerary Breakdown
Transfer from Los Llanos to Refugio El Pilar
The adventure begins with a transfer from the meeting point (C. Sansofe, 19) in Los Llanos to Refugio El Pilar, perched at 1,450 meters altitude. This initial ride sets the tone—climbing from the town into cooler, greener areas, and giving you time to get comfortable on your bike before the real fun begins.
Many reviews highlight the professionalism of the guides, who are well-versed in navigating La Palma’s roads and sharing interesting tidbits about the landscape. The transfer takes away the hassle of logistics, allowing you to focus fully on the cycling.
Descent through lush forests
From the mountain refuge, the ride heads downward toward the east side of the island. Expect sweeping panoramic views of dense forests and volcanic formations. The descent is smooth, making it an enjoyable section for riders of all skill levels.
This part of the route is praised for its stunning scenery, with some reviews mentioning the “impressive views” and “beautiful forested areas.” The guides are attentive, ensuring safety on the descents while sharing insights about the flora and geology of the area.
More Great Thing To Do NearbySouthward to Fuencaliente
Next, you’ll continue southward passing through Mazo to Fuencaliente, a quieter stretch with light traffic and scenic coast views. The route here is perfect for appreciating La Palma’s volcanic origins—past old volcanoes and the newer Tajogaite eruption site.
A highlight is the optional coffee stop in Fuencaliente, where you can relax and enjoy local flavors. Many riders comment on the well-paced stops that break up the ride without disrupting the flow.
Scenic coastal and volcanic views
The ride along the west side of the island offers a contrasting landscape—former volcanoes and volcanic fields, capped off by the recent lava flows from the 2021 eruption. Cycling over the new road across the lava field is a unique experience often described as “surreal” and “a photographer’s dream.”
Guides are knowledgeable about the volcanic history, adding context to the striking scenery. Several reviews remark on how the guides’ insights transform a simple ride into an educational journey.
Return and reflection
The tour wraps up back at C. Sansofe, 19, completing a full circle through La Palma’s southern landscapes. Riders often say they finish feeling both physically invigorated and enriched by the diverse scenery they’ve encountered.
What’s Included and What to Bring
The tour includes top-tier carbon racing bikes, with options for SPD, SPD SL, Look, or Flat pedals—meaning everyone should find a comfortable fit. Helmets, gloves, and water bottles are also provided, so packing light is possible.
You’ll want to bring weather-appropriate clothing, sunglasses, sunblock, and your own snacks or hydration for extra energy. Since the bikes are rental, confirming your height during booking helps ensure a proper fit—and reviewers recommend doing so to avoid any discomfort.
The only additional costs are personal items, extra drinks, or a meal if you choose to indulge at stops.
The Experience: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Stunning scenic variety: Forests, volcanoes, coastal views—this tour captures La Palma’s essence.
- Quality bikes and gear: The carbon bikes make pedaling smooth, and safety gear is included.
- Expert guides: Friendly, knowledgeable, and multilingual guides enhance the experience.
- Convenient logistics: Transfer from the meeting point simplifies the day.
- Small group size: Ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
Cons:
- The 6-hour duration might be tiring for casual cyclists or those unfamiliar with longer rides.
- Bike rental availability may vary, so early booking is recommended to secure your preferred bike size.
- This tour isn’t suitable for children under 4’9″, or those with certain health issues, which limits some travelers.
Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?
If you love cycling and want a comprehensive snapshot of La Palma’s southern landscapes, this tour is a fantastic choice. You’ll get to see volcanoes, lush forests, and the coast—all without the hassle of planning routes or transportation. It’s particularly suited for those with moderate fitness levels who enjoy active holidays and are comfortable on a bike for several hours.
The guided nature of the experience, combined with small group sizes, means you’ll get local insights and personalized service. The route’s variety keeps the ride interesting, and the scenic stops provide perfect photo opportunities and moments to appreciate the island’s natural beauty.
For travelers who prefer less physically demanding activities or have mobility concerns, this might be too strenuous. However, for cycling enthusiasts or adventurous travelers eager to explore La Palma’s volcanic heart, this tour offers a memorable way to do so.
FAQs
Do I need my own bike for this tour?
No, the tour includes high-quality carbon road bikes, so you just need to bring your personal gear and a helmet if you prefer your own.
What should I wear on the ride?
Wear weather-appropriate cycling clothing, including comfortable layers, sun protection, and sturdy shoes suitable for cycling.
Is this tour suitable for beginners?
The difficulty level is considered easy—ideal for those with basic cycling skills—but riders should be comfortable on a bike for around six hours with some elevation gain.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.
What languages do the guides speak?
Guides speak English, German, and Spanish, making it accessible for a wide range of travelers.
Are there any age restrictions?
This tour isn’t suitable for children under 4’9″ (150 cm) or individuals with certain health issues. It’s designed for those who are physically active and comfortable on a bike.
What’s the main highlight of this tour?
The combination of diverse landscapes—volcanoes, forests, and coastlines—paired with expert guidance and a smooth cycling experience, makes it a uniquely rewarding way to see La Palma.
To sum it up, this guided road bike tour offers a well-balanced mix of scenic beauty, physical activity, and expert insight, making it a standout choice for cyclists eager to explore La Palma’s south. Whether as a solo adventure, part of a cycling holiday, or an active family outing, it promises plenty of memorable moments amid some of the most striking landscapes the island has to offer.
You can check if your dates are available here: