There are hundreds of fantastic motorcycle routes in Spain. This country, which God must have been created with the biker in mind, offers everything from winding coastal roads to awe inspiring mountain passes. Here are ten of my favourite routes.
SANTANDER TO BURGOS
The N623 which rises to more than 1000 feet above sea level is one of the best pieces of tarmac you'll ever have the privilege of using. Within its 143 kilometres are some really nice, undulating straights, downhill sweeps and hairpin bends. Stop at the top for a while and enjoy the stunning views.
SORIA TO LOGRONO
96 kilometres through the Sierra de Cebolleras. Temperature differences between the top and the bottom can be huge, so be prepared. This is definitely one of the most beautiful parts of Spain. Take care which time of the year you tackle this one. Fast straights and hairpins here, so be aware.
MAZARRON TO REQUENA
281 kilometres through one of the most sparsely populated areas of Spain, yet the roads are incredible. The scenery is unbelievable and it's quiet, so quiet. The spectacular nature reserve of 'Muela de Cortes' has a magical feel about it; probably because you can travel for miles without meeting a car..
ANTEQUERA TO VELEZ MALAGA
32 kilometres of long sweeping bends and spectacular scenery. Call in at the 'Camping Bar' for a coffee on the terrace that overlooks Lake Vinuela. Mount Maroma that stands at over 6,000 feet is often snow-capped. I don't think you could find a better view from a bar anywhere. This can be made into a circular route by heading down to Torre del Mar then taking the coast road, before heading inland again.
NERJA TO ALMUNECAR
If coastal routes are what you like, ignore the new motorway link and take 25 kilometre old road. Be careful here, as the police do patrol this road with a view to collaring bikers. Since the new motorway has taken the traffic away, this road has become a favourite with local bikers, but sadly, some of them never make it to the end.
RONDA TO SAN PEDRO DE ALCANTARA
Fast bends and hairpins are a feature of this road. Ronda sits at a fairly high altitude and I've seen ice on this road at times of the year when there really shouldn't be. As you're coming down, look out for the Rock of Gibraltar in the distance. This road can be very busy as Ronda is a favourite with tourists. While you're in Ronda, take a look around the oldest bull-ring in Spain. 41 kilometres
GRANADA TO MOTRIL
Once again it's coast and mountains. 60 kilometres of pure bliss through mountain passes that are abundant with waterfalls. This is really a road for cruising and enjoying your surroundings. If you want to extend the ride, head east when you reach the coast road and stop of in at La Herradura, one of the most beautiful natural bays in Spain.
MALAGA TO CAMPILLOS
Once you've left the hustle and bustle of Malaga, you're not far from Malaga's Lake District. The spectacular El Chorro pass is where they filmed parts of 'Von Ryan's Express' The lakes around this area are stunningly beautiful. There aren't many fast roads around these parts, so once again it's a day for cruising. This 72 kilometre ride, depending on the season, can be a route heavy with tourists.
CABO DE GATA TO TABERNAS
The lighthouse at the Cabo de Gata is the end of the road, but it's worth going up the dead end to experience one of the best coastal runs in the country, albeit short. Once you're on your way, it won't be long before you're passing through the only true desert in Europe, so be careful when you go. I did it in June and it was just as if someone had turned a hair dryer on me. If you have time, you could visit Mini Hollywood, the home of Spaghetti Westerns.
LANJARON TO TREVELEZ
This route is only 33 kilometres, but seems longer due to the number of sharp bends, and if you get behind a convoy of tourists you're just about stuck. But having said that, the scenery is magnificent and the highest village in Spain lies at the end of the road.
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