The best traffic-free bike rides around Marbella

Nice cycle path from paved dirt road, be careful, there are some holes and busy.

One of the landmarks of Puerto Banus is the statue that stands in the middle of the roundabout at the end of the Avenida de Nacionales Unidas on the seafront. The statue, called 'La Victoria', is made of bronze and copper and stands on a 26 m (85 ft) high granite column. It was designed by the famous Georgian sculptor Zurab Tsereteli and presented to Puerto Banus by the Mayor of Moscow in 1994.

San Pedro de Alcántara is a picturesque district of Marbella, located about ten kilometers west of the city center. It is a charming coastal town that has retained its Andalusian character while offering modern facilities. San Pedro is a popular destination for visitors looking for a quieter and more authentic atmosphere compared to the more glamorous parts of Marbella. San Pedro de Alcántara was founded in 1860 by the Marquis del Duero, Manuel Gutiérrez de la Concha. Originally the town was an agricultural center with sugar cane plantations and the Marquis planned it as a modern workers' colony. Today San Pedro is a thriving urban area that combines tradition and modernity. The town offers several attractions, such as the church of San Pedro de Alcántara. This church, built in the 19th century, is located in the heart of the town and is a fine example of traditional Andalusian architecture. It is located in a charming square surrounded by small cafes. San Pedro Boulevard is a modern boulevard with impressive pedestrian bridges, green spaces, playgrounds and restaurants. An archaeological site is the Vega del Mar Basilica, which dates back to the late Roman period (4th to 6th centuries AD). It is one of the oldest early Christian churches in Spain, discovered in the middle of an ancient cemetery. San Pedro has a beautiful, quiet seafront promenade that leads all the way to Marbella. The beaches are less crowded than in other parts of Marbella and offer a relaxed ambience. San Pedro de Alcántara stands out for its relaxed atmosphere, historical roots and less touristy appeal. It is ideal for cyclists who want to experience an authentic part of the Costa del Sol.

The “La Victoria Monument” in Marbella, also known as the Monument to Victory or the Victory Column. The sculpture was designed by Vicente Menendez Conde and stands in a central location in Marbella. The monument is a tribute to the victory of freedom and democracy in Spain, not specifically a military victory. It is often seen as a symbol of progress and peace in the region. The sculpture itself represents a wing-like figure symbolizing triumph and advancement. The dynamism of the forms conveys a sense of movement and lightness. Sometimes the monument is also interpreted as a reference to the reconstruction of Marbella after the Spanish Civil War, as Marbella experienced a period of modernization and economic recovery after the Franco era. The monument is designed in a modern, abstract style, which is characteristic of the artist Vicente Menéndez Conde. The wing-like shape draws the eye and stands out from the surrounding architecture. It was deliberately designed to symbolize hope and progress.

Overall, the coastal path between Marbella and San Pedro de Alcántara offers a scenic and relaxing bike ride along the Costa del Sol that is a special experience. The route consists of various sections with different surfaces, including cobblestones, wooden walkways and sandy paths, all of which are easy to ride on. There are numerous opportunities for breaks along the way, whether to eat, drink or simply enjoy the view. The route is flat, passes beaches, restaurants and sights and is ideal for cycling.

The old town of Estepona (Casco Antiguo) is a real highlight and offers a variety of places worth seeing. It captivates with its typical Andalusian charm, with whitewashed houses, flower-bedecked streets and cozy squares. The Plaza de las Flores is the heart of the old town. A picturesque square with colorful flowerbeds, cozy cafes and restaurants. Perfect for a break and to watch the hustle and bustle. The small alleys such as Calle Terraza or Calle Real are decorated with countless flowerpots. Each street has its own color palette, which makes exploring it a unique experience. Remember it!

There are still numerous towers along the Costa del Sol today. They were built to protect the bay from the Barbary states, who not only plundered the coastal villages but also enslaved them. Many towers were already built by the Moors. The tower of Mijas is of a “newer” type and is more in keeping with the fortress architecture of the 18th century

La cala, nice wee village to visit.