Current as of: March 29, 2024 - 09:08

Spanish Square (Plaza de Espana) in Sevilla at sunset, Andalusia, Spain

Self-Guided Cycling in Andalucia: Seville to Cadiz Trip Notes

  • Ways to Travel: Self-Guided Holidays
  • Destination: Spain
  • Programmes: Cycling
  • Activity Level:

    3 out of 7 - Moderate

  • 7 Days: Land Only
  • Ages: 14+
  • Trip Code: C06AD

Trip Overview

Discover one of Spain’s most iconic areas by bike

It could be argued that Andalucia is the most quintessentially Spanish part of the Iberian Peninsula. Defined by its Moorish architecture this land of contrasts boasts fertile land, historic hilltop towns, stunning beaches and excellent local food. This moderate self-guided cycle takes you from the magical city of Seville, along small country roads and through Mediterranean woodland to the town of Arcos, one of Andalucia’s most dramatically positioned pueblos blancos (white villages). From here you take a journey into the heart of the Flamenco traditions of Jerez – famous for its sherry wines, before ending in Cádiz; thought to be the oldest city in western Europe.The accommodation is in spectacular traditional and modern hotels of the region, and the food is plentiful, fresh and delicious.

At a Glance

  • 6 nights premium hotels with en suite facilities, most with pools (seasonal)
  • 5 days cycling
  • Undulating cycling – 82% paved, 18% unpaved (some rough tracks)
  • E-bike hire available on request (supplement applies)
  • Self-guided holiday. Min. age 14 yrs 

Highlights

  • Authentic accommodation in Parador hotels and an Andalucian hacienda
  • Tapas and flamenco in the streets of Jerez
  • Spectacular sandy beaches of Cadiz

Is This Trip for You?

Cycling conditions
This is a self-guided cycling trip for those who like to cycle independently, but with back up to take out the hard work and planning. We arrange your accommodations, provide you with a map and route notes so that you can cycle at your own pace, while your bags are transported from one hotel to the next.
Activity Level: 3 (Moderate)
Please see the introductory pages of the cycling holidays brochure or our website for more important information on classification and grading.
Average daily ride: 59km (37 miles).
No. of days cycling: 5
Terrain & route: Undulating cycling with some smaller climbs. The majority of the cycle routes are on paved roads but there are some section of dirt road and some short sections of rough dirt tracks, on which care needs to be taken.
Vehicle Support: A representative will be there to meet you, make sure the bikes are all set up and will be on call throughout the trip should you need.

It is important that you are happy reading maps and following route notes, we make these as accurate as possible and they are regularly checked. Where possible we stick to cycle tracks and quiet roads to make the journeys as pleasant as possible, however, on occasion we have to use busier routes.

As this is a self-guided holiday there is no group and no leader. There may be others on the same departure date as you, but you will not be organised together. The route notes contain an emergency assistance telephone number should you need it and in emergencies, the local representative is normally able to dispatch a taxi or pick you up themselves. They may wish to charge for this service.

Families
Self-guided cycling holidays are a perfect option for families as they offer the freedom for you to take your holiday at your own pace. You can stop as and when you want and need, at the cafes and restaurants that suit your family and the sites that interest you. As a guide we have suggested that 14 years is the minimum age for this trip, but as it is self-guided and you will be leading your own family we will ultimately leave this decision up to you. The daily distances are all published in the trip notes along with a description of each days cycling so you have a good idea of what to expect. On this trip, children should be expected to ride on roads with traffic. If you have any further questions please do not hesitate to contact one of our experts. The principle idea is that these holidays can be as flexible as you like, with logistical support but no group or leader to dictate the daily activities.

Group

As this is a self-guided holiday there is no group and no leader. Your luggage is transferred and route notes and maps are provided. The route notes contain an emergency assistance telephone number (operating between 0830 and 2000hrs). In emergency, the local representative is normally able to dispatch a taxi or pick you up themselves. They may wish to charge for this service.

Adult min age: 14

Itinerary

Self-Guided Cycling in Andalucia: Seville to Cadiz

Land Only

  • Start City: Seville
  • End City: Cadiz

Flight Inclusive

  • Start City: London
  • End City: London

Land Only Itinerary

Day 1
Arrive Seville

Make your own way to Seville. We recommend arriving early or arranging extra nights to ensure you spend as much time as possible in this magical city of international fame. Its culture, history and folklore make this an exceptional tourist destination. Legend tells us that the city was founded by Hercules and its origins are linked with the Tartessian civilisation. Now it is the capital of the Andalucian region and most widely known for its ornate Alcázar castle complex, built during the Moorish Almohad dynasty, and its 18th Century Plaza de Toros de la Real Maestranza bullring. The Gothic cathedral is home to the tomb of Christopher Columbus and a famous belltower; the Giralda. The birthplace of Flamenco is generally accepted to be this area of Andalucia, and Seville is the perfect place to enjoy an evening show alongside your traditional cuisine.

Day 2
Using the network of cycle track head north-east to reach the historic walled town of Carmona

Leave the city using its extensive network of cycle tracks. Head north-east to reach a dedicated cycle route on a good dirt road beside the river Guadaíra. Cycle amongst flat landscapes of cereals and sunflower plantations, you will pass several small towns before you reach the historic walled town of Carmona, which boasts several churches, palaces, and an imposing Arab fortress. There are some sections of rough dirt track on this day.

Distance covered: 31mi (50km)

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 3
Enjoy a flat day of cycling through small traditional towns towards Montellano

Leaving picturesque Carmona you ride south, a delightful route along quaint country lanes overlooked by sunflowers and olive groves. Today’s ride takes you through several small, traditional towns where you can enjoy a refreshing drink in one of the many bars along your route. Finish in the small town of Montellano with its pink marble buildings and natural monuments; perfect for an evening of relaxation.

Distance covered: 42mi (68km)

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 4
Pedal along quiet country roads and the 'Via Verde' cycle lane with the mountains of Grazalema as your backdrop

From Montellano you can see the mountains of Grazalema far in the distance. Today you will experience some hills, but not mountains, as the cycle takes you into pristine Mediterranean forest. Most of the cycling is along very quiet country roads, except for a section (about 8km) along a ‘Via Verde’ (a disused railway line now used as a cycle lane). You will cycle past the typically Andalucian town of Puerto Serrano; a good place to stop for lunch. You end in Arcos de la Frontera; one of Andalucia’s most dramatically positioned pueblos blancos (white villages).

Distance covered: 37mi (60km)

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 5
Follow the river Guadalete through Mediterranean woodland and agricultural land, on undulating terrain

From Arcos you pedal across undulating terrain, following the river Guadalete downstream along quiet country roads. Mediterranean woodland and agricultural land characterise the landscape. There are many small villages to stop along the way for a welcome break! The town of Jerez holds worldwide acclaim for its sherry and brandy production, but is equally famous for its fine horses and Flamenco music and dance.

Distance covered: 35mi (56km)

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 6
Reach the sea today and the ancient city of Cadiz, thought to be the oldest city in Western Europe

Heading south today, you reach the sea and the ancient city of Cádiz. The ride will take you into the stunning small town of El Puerto de Santa Maria, where there are many restaurants tempting you with the fish catch of the day. Cádiz is the oldest city in western Europe, with monuments such as the grandiose structure of the Cathedral Nueva, and the red brick building of the Gran Teatro, along with the stunning beaches are enough to encourage any visitor to fall in love with it. Your ride will end along the beach cycle paths, and lead you to your last Parador for one final night of luxury.

Distance covered: 39mi (62km)

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 7
End Cadiz

You trip ends after breakfast in Cádiz. If you have time it is possible to arrange additional nights here, or there are regular trains back to Seville taking around 1h 35mins, where you can also arrange additional nights.

Meals included: Breakfast

Ascents, descents and distances

All ascents, descents and distances listed above have been measured by our local partners or tour leaders, in many cases with satellite-based mapping software. Please note, different GPS measuring devices can give differing results, particularly on winding paths or in mountainous terrain. Measurements stated throughout these trips notes are given to help you understand the types of terrain and distances you will encounter. Timings stated will vary depending on the pace of your group.

Accommodation

Paradors & Hotels

Historic Noble House in Arcos de la Frontera

On this trip you will stay in 3 different Paradors. A Parador is defined as ‘luxury accommodation in a traditional building’ and Andalucia is an excellent place to experience some truly stunning accommodation. Highlights include an impressive Arabic castle from the 14th Century in Carmona, an historic noble house in the centre of Arcos and a 19th Century palace in the centre of Jerez. In Seville and Cadiz the centrally located hotels are 4-star, and in Montellano you spend the night in an authentic Andalucian hacienda surrounded by almond and olive groves. Most of the accommodation have pools, but please be aware that these are open on a seasonal basis.

All prices are based on 2 persons sharing, so if there is an odd number of people travelling in your party or you are travelling alone, there will be a compulsory supplement for a single room for the tour duration. For a solo traveller there is an additional charge to cover transfer costs.

Single supplement from £ 312

Food & Drink

All breakfasts included.
Food is a hugely important part of southern Spain and a key part of Andalucian life is eating out. Dishes will comprise of some of the best locally grown produce. Olives, almonds, lemons and oranges are used in cooking, or in refreshing salads. Along the coastline you can be sure of fresh seafood and fish and the Serrano ham is a speciality from the mountain villages. Tapas originated in Andalucia, and in many places you will often receive small snacks served free with your drinks in a bar.
Typical Andalucian dishes include; Gambas al Ajillo (prawns in garlic and chilli oil), Paella/arroz, Coquinas (clams) served with garlic, parsley and white wine, Calamares (squid), Tortilla Espanola, and churros (strips of deep fried dough) which are often eaten with hot chocolate, perfect in the early hours after a night out!

For this trip there is the possibility to upgrade to half board. Please see the ‘extra expenses’ section for more information.

Transport

Your luggage is transported from hotel to hotel for you.

Weather & Seasonality

Spring generally enjoys pleasant daytime temperatures (12-23ºC) and a little cooler in the evenings. There is the chance of some rain, which then offers views of beautiful spring flowers. Summer months are hot and dry with daytime temperatures of around 21-35ºC, dropping to between 17 and 25ºC at night. July and August are especially hot and if you choose to travel in these months it is better to start your cycling as early as possible to avoid the midday heat. Autumn brings cooler weather although it is still fairly dry. The possibility of rain is more likely in winter months but temperatures stay mild in the daytime, becoming cooler after sunset.

Weather Charts

Self-Guided Cycling in Andalucia: Seville to Cadiz

Joining Instructions

Travelling land only: 7 days starting in Seville and ending in Cadiz

Your trip normally starts at our hotel in Seville on the afternoon of Day 1 of the itinerary. Details of how to reach the start hotel are confirmed  in the Final Joining Instructions.

Full joining instructions including route notes, hotel list, map and local emergency numbers will be sent to you as part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent.

Flights from the UK

There are direct flights to Seville with Easyjet and Ryanair, or it is easy to take a flight to Malaga or Madrid and take advantage of the high speed train service to Seville. To return, you can take a flight from Jerez (Ryanair) or use the train to reach Malaga or Madrid airport.

Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers will be sent to you as part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent.

Location start: Seville
Location end: Cadiz

Regional Flights

The Flight Inclusive price is based on a London departure, but we are happy to tailor this to your local or regional airport. Please ask about flights from local or regional airports.

If booking regional flights other than with Exodus, you must allow a minimum connecting time (in addition to the international check-in time) of 1 hour at Gatwick, and 1.5 hours at Heathrow; this is longer than the official minimum, but baggage handling is known to be subject to delays.

Transfer Details

Airport transfers are not included in this trip.

To reach the start hotel you can take the Seville urban transport line between the airport and Plaza de Armas, in the city centre (with stops at convenient points, including the Santa Justa rail and AVE station). The journey takes about 35 minutes.

Ending in Cadiz, your nearest airport is Jerez, but this is only served by a handful of airlines (including Ryanair). For more options, you can use the high speed train to reach Malaga or Madrid airports.

What To Take

Essential Equipment

Self-Guided Hire Bikes

The local hire bikes are 27-speed Hybrid bikes and are supplied with:
– 1 front bar bag with a plastic folder for your route notes and maps – 1 per 2 people (if you are travelling together)
– 1 set of rear panniers
– 1 bike lock per 2 people
– 1 repair kit per 2 people, which includes 1 spare inner tube and a pump, plus a lock
– Front and rear lights

Seat and handlebar heights will have been set up in advance from the heights you have given us on booking. However, when you receive your bike there will be the opportunity to test and adjust. Electronic bikes are available for this trip, please request one as early as possible as they are subject to availability. Helmets can be requested if you wish, but please be aware we can never guarantee the quality of these so we do recommend bringing your own. 

We recommend you bring the following items: 
Normal daily clothes 
Padded cycling shorts 
Cycling gloves 
Water bottles 
Breathable cycling top 
Cycling helmet (compulsory on this trip) 
A couple of warm layers
Sunglasses, sun cream and sunhat
Stiff-soled shoes suitable for cycling 
Waterproofs and long cycling trousers
For earlier departures you may need some warmer layers
Mobile phone with roaming capabilities 

 

Bike Repairs
As you are riding unaccompanied, it is wise to know at least how to repair or change an inner tube before setting off on your bike!  Please visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-QSjw0iDs98&t=3s for a comprehensive guide on fixing a puncture.

The bikes are serviced before being rented out so there should be no problems – however, there are emergency numbers provided in the Route Notes for more complex problems.

If you prefer the familiarity of your own bike, you may, of course, bring it along. Please advise us at the time of booking and you will receive a discount on the price of the holiday, as specified above. You will be responsible for any extra baggage charges, please speak to your sales representative for individual airline fees. Please note, this does not apply to trips within the UK, for which local bike hire is not included.

You will also be responsible for assembling and disassembling your bike as well as bringing along spare parts and any tools specific to it. It is also your responsibility to ensure your bike is roadworthy and suitable for the type of cycling undertaken. If in doubt, the model of local bike hire available should act as a guide and details of terrain, ascent and descent are available both in the itinerary and in the ‘Is this trip for you?’ sections. Our cycling team only carry the relevant spares for the hire fleet. Any clients bringing their own bike should ensure they have adequate cover for loss, damage or theft under their travel, home contents or a specialist insurance policy. If Exodus is confident we have taken all reasonable care to ensure the safety of your bike, in the rare event of loss, damage or theft, you will need to claim under your own insurance policy.

Extra bike accessories

You may like to bring your own pedals and saddle (excluding the seat post) or gel saddle cover to fit to the hire bikes. We encourage this, if it is your preference. However, please note that you are responsible for your own equipment, and removing your saddle/pedals at the end of the trip. We cannot guarantee the return of any bike parts left behind.

Recommended Cycling Clothing

Padded cycling shorts (with loose ‘over-shorts’ where recommended), breathable clothing, and a lightweight waterproof/windproof top. Shoes with relatively stiff soles are better for biking, but are not essential unless you are cycling long distances. Most people want to carry certain items with them during the day while cycling, for this we recommend a large bum bag (fanny pack) or small close-fitting daysack.

Exodus Policy on Cycling Helmets

Wearing a helmet is mandatory for anyone taking part in any guided Exodus cycling holiday. Group members must bring their own helmets, as they are not available for hire, even if they are hiring a bike from Exodus.

For self-guided cycling holidays wearing a helmet is highly recommended. Customers who choose to ignore our advice do so entirely at their own risk and on the understanding that it may affect the validity of their travel insurance. It should also be noted that in some countries, wearing a helmet is a legal requirement.

Cycling of all kinds has its dangers and accidents can happen from time to time. Please ensure that you are properly prepared for the riding you are going to undertake.

Local Bike Details

A quality local hire bike is included in the overall price of our cycling holidays. At the time of booking we will take your height in order to reserve equipment. There may on occasions be insufficient bikes available in the correct size; we will endeavour to find suitable alternative equipment but this cannot be guaranteed. We will tell you before you book whether suitably sized bikes are available.

Conditions 

1. The equipment remains the property of the supplier and you may not sell, hire out or part possession with the equipment.
2. You must not misuse the equipment and must return it in the same condition as when received (ordinary wear and tear excepted). The supplier is entitled to charge for any damage caused to the equipment during the period of hire.
3. You must ensure that the equipment is adequately secured when not in use. In the event of the equipment being lost or stolen, you may be liable for the replacement value of the equipment
4. You must not use the equipment whilst under the influence of drink or drugs and should immediately notify the Supplier in the event of breakdown or loss.

E-Bikes Available

Electric bikes offer all the thrills and healthy exercise of a regular bike, but with one crucial difference – power! A tiny electric motor (capped at 20-25mph/32-40kph) assists your pedalling, allowing you to make molehills out of mountains. Cycle further, see more, have more fun. They are perfect if you want a trip with companions of differing fitness level – or a trip at a slightly harder grade – and want to know there’s a bit of motor power available if you need it.

Practical Information

Visa

Spain

Travellers from the UK, US and EU normally do not need a visa to enter Spain. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.

Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.

• Australia: www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/europe/spain
• Canada: www.travel.gc.ca/destinations/spain
• United Kingdom: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/spain/entry-requirements
• USA:  www.travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Spain.html

Vaccinations and Health

Spain

There are no required vaccinations. However, you may want to consider vaccinations for tetanus and rabies. Please confirm with your doctor or travel clinic.

There are no specific health risks on this trip.

If you’re a UK citizen, please note that your UK-issued European Health Insurance Cards (EHIC) are still valid and offer the same cover as the Global Health Insurance Cards (GHIC) in the EU. This gives you medical care at a reduced cost, and in some cases for free, in many European countries, but should not be considered a substitute for adequate insurance. Once your EHIC has expired, replace it with a GHIC.

Local Time

Spain's time zone: Europe/Madrid (UTC +01:00)

Electricity

Spain's electricity: Plug type F (two round pins) – 230V, 50Hz

Money

Spain's currency: Euros (EUR)

ATM Availability

Cashpoints are available in all major towns. Credit cards are widely accepted.

Extra Expenses & Spending Money

For the meals not included we recommend that you allow €8-15 for lunch. Dinners can range between €15-30 depending on the style of restaurant. Suggestions of where to eat are made in the route notes.

It is possible to upgrade to a half-board package for all nights on this trip. Generally this involves a 3 course dinner, without drinks. This is usually taken either at the hotel, or at a nearby restaurant.

Responsible Travel

At Exodus we believe in the power of Responsible Travel.

Every time we travel, we are part of a global movement that creates jobs, builds more sustainable societies, encourages cultural understanding and safeguards common natural and cultural heritage. To learn more about what Responsible Travel means to Exodus click here… 

Important Information

Your safe participation 

When booking this trip, you should be confident in your ability to participate in all activities described in these Trip Notes. If you have any doubt about your suitability, please call the Exodus office and ask to speak to one of the experts on this itinerary. 

Although our leaders are well trained to deal with different capabilities, if they have any concerns about someone’s ability to safely take part in an activity, or their impact on other people’s enjoyment, we authorise them to take necessary action which, in some circumstances, may involve asking someone to miss that activity. 

By booking this trip you agree to our Booking Conditions which clearly state that our leaders have the authority to do this. In these rare instances we will ensure anyone sitting out is safely provided for and offered alternative options where possible. Refunds will not be provided for activities missed and customers may be liable for additional costs incurred. 

How to Book

  1. Check availability: Go online to check availability, or contact us by phone or email.
  2. Secure your place: You can provisionally hold a place on this trip, usually for between three and seven days.
  3. Complete your booking and payment

When you’re ready to book, go to our website for online bookings, book over the phone or you can complete a booking form (available online or on request by calling us). We accept all major credit and debit cards, or you can pay be cheque.

After booking

You will receive your booking confirmation letter and invoice, which includes extra information and guidance about your travel arrangements.

Full joining instructions, including local emergency numbers and details of how to reach the start point, will be sent to you approximately two to three weeks prior to departure. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier, please contact our office or your travel agent.

Trip Note validity

These Trip Notes are valid from the “Current as” date on page one. They will occasionally be updated after booking and before departure; if there are any updates that significantly impact the inclusions or itinerary, customers will be written to separately. They will also receive a link to the most up-to-date Trip Notes with their Final Joining Instructions before travelling.

The information in these Trip Notes is given in good faith. Where differences exist between the Trip Notes and our current brochure or website, the Trip Notes supersede the brochure and website. All holidays can be subject to unexpected changes; to enjoy them you should be prepared to be flexible where necessary. Occasionally, it may not be possible to follow the itinerary as planned. This may be for a variety of reasons – climatic, political, physical or other. In these circumstances we will make the best-possible alternative arrangements that maintain the integrity of the original itinerary.

Licensing

Exodus is fully licensed and bonded as a tour operator. We hold Air Traffic Organisers Licence (ATOL) number 2582, issued and bonded with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). We are also bonded to the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and we are members of the Federation of Tour Operators (FTO) and ABTA – The Travel Association. This means you can book your Exodus holiday with confidence, as all money paid to us for your trip is fully protected.