4.1
(53)
519
riders
47
rides
Touring cycling routes around Tabernas traverse Europe's only true desert, characterized by its distinctive "badlands" topography. This landscape features dramatically eroded ravines, dry riverbeds known as ramblas, and barren, moon-like slopes. The region's semi-arid Mediterranean climate and geological history as an ancient seabed have sculpted its unique terrain, nestled between the Sierra de los Filabres, Sierra Alhamilla, and Sierra Nevada mountain ranges. Despite its arid appearance, the desert supports a unique ecosystem and is designated as a Protected Natural Area.
…Last updated: May 18, 2026
4.0
(2)
9
riders
16.7km
01:24
230m
230m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
27
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.5
(8)
34
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(6)
27
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
88
riders
62.5km
04:34
1,410m
1,410m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Gravel biking around Tabernas
This is where Western films were filmed in the past, including "Once Upon a Time in the West" and films with Bud Spencer, Terence Hill, Claudia Cardinale, Roger Moore, etc.
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They are cultivated extensively for their fruits or (in specific contexts) for the production of dyes.
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Huge cactus fields on both sides of the road.
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Currently (Feb 2026) the castle is closed indefinitely for maintenance and historical research.
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It is a small Andalusian town of medieval origin, with quiet white streets, dominated by the ruins of an Arab castle and surrounded by the unique desert that bears its name.
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Beautiful point, rock walls left and right and scenery from various films
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Fort Bravo, also known as Texas Hollywood, offers an immersive experience of the American Old West. Visitors can enjoy live shows, wagon rides, and explore authentic sets including a saloon, jail, bank, and more. Additionally, there is an area dedicated to Mexican culture with a plaza, church, and traditional homes.
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Here different layers of earth come to the surface, the white colouring is a mixture of salt lime. The salt lime comes back in different places in this special bed.
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Tabernas offers a diverse network of over 45 touring cycling routes. These routes cater to various skill levels, ranging from easy rides to challenging expeditions with significant elevation gains.
The terrain in Tabernas is uniquely characterized by its 'badlands' topography, featuring dramatically eroded ravines, dry riverbeds known as ramblas, and barren, moon-like slopes. While some routes are on mostly paved surfaces, many explore gravel paths and unpaved segments, offering a true desert cycling experience.
Yes, Tabernas has options for less experienced cyclists and families. There are 4 easy routes and 13 moderate routes available. These often feature gentler gradients and more stable surfaces, allowing for a comfortable exploration of the desert landscape.
The most popular months for cycling in Tabernas are April and October. During these periods, the weather is generally pleasant, offering ideal conditions for exploring the desert without the extreme heat of summer or the cooler temperatures of winter.
Yes, many touring cycling routes in Tabernas are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. An example is the Circular gravel route through the Desierto de Tabernas, which offers a direct experience of the desert's gravel terrain.
The Tabernas Desert is rich in unique sights. You can cycle past famous film sets like Texas Hollywood, explore the rugged Tabernas Ravine, or even spot the Tabernas Oasis. Many routes also offer panoramic views of the surrounding 'badlands' topography.
Absolutely. Tabernas offers 31 difficult touring cycling routes for those seeking a challenge. These routes often feature significant elevation gains and cover longer distances, such as the Tabernas Village and Desert – Alto de Velefique Pass loop from Tabernas, which ascends to a high mountain pass.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.1 stars from over 50 reviews. Reviewers often praise the unique desert landscape, the variety of routes for different skill levels, and the opportunity to explore a region famous for its cinematic history.
Yes, several routes incorporate the iconic film sets that give the Tabernas Desert its 'Wild West' feel. For instance, the moderate Tabernas Ravine – Texas Hollywood loop from Tabernas explores the Tabernas Ravine and passes directly by the famous Texas Hollywood film set.
Many routes provide excellent viewpoints to appreciate the vastness and unique geology of the Tabernas Desert. The Tabernas Village and Desert – Texas Hollywood loop from Circuito Costa de Almería offers expansive views as it traverses the desert landscape.
Yes, some routes venture further afield, allowing you to discover more of the surrounding region. An example is the difficult Lucainena de las Torres loop from Turrillas, which explores different villages and landscapes adjacent to the Tabernas Desert.


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