The Riding

Monachil is a lot like our base in Bourg d'Oisans France, in that it sits at the bottom of the valley, below the most southerly Ski Resort in Europe. This is great for us as it means you start the day with a climb but end it on a descent back to the village.

The area has been made famous by both the Vuelta a España and the Tour of Andalucía for spliting the peloton and provide race winning opportunities for those challenging for the overall lead in the stage race.

The main climb out of Monachil is the much feared 3300 metre monster up to the Sierra Nevada Ski Resort and was last used in the Vuelta a España in 2006. This climb is a hairpin spectacular dwarfing even our mighty Alpe d'Huez and Col du Galibier.

Our emphasis for this week of riding is on an early season warm up, riding at a relaxed pace under the guidance of Phil and our local cycling guide. Using the knowledge of the guide we will find the best cafe and lunch stops, as well as the best road climbs and descents.