Lanzarote Cycling

Lanzarote has quietly earned its reputation as a favourite winter cycling spot, and it is easy to see why for those of us who know the island well. With sunshine almost every day of the year and those unmistakable volcanic landscapes, cycling here always feels a little bit special. The roads wind their way from wild stretches of coastline up into the hills and across lava fields that seem to belong to another world. 

Whether you are drawn to the steady climbs, the off-road trails, or perhaps you are training for the Ironman, Lanzarote has a way of welcoming every kind of cyclist. Most of the roads are in good condition, and once you leave Arrecife behind, the traffic thins out and you can really enjoy the peace and space. Thanks to the island’s size, it is perfectly possible to cross from one side to the other in just a few hours, taking in so many different views along the way.

Lanzarote’s roads wind their way across the island’s striking volcanic landscape, offering cyclists a chance to experience the scenery that makes this place so special. Many keen riders choose to stay in Puerto del Carmen or Costa Teguise, as both resorts provide a perfect starting point for exploring the island’s best cycling routes.

One of the most enjoyable rides here is the La Geria wine loop. Setting out from Puerto del Carmen, you’ll find yourself pedalling inland through Tias and into the heart of the La Geria valley, where the landscape is dotted with thousands of black volcanic hollows, each one cradling a single grapevine. The route meanders between Uga and Yaiza before returning through the vineyards of La Geria. It’s a manageable loop, with gentle climbs and plenty of opportunities to pause and take in the views. You’ll pass several bodegas along the way, and while the temptation to stop for a tasting is strong, it’s usually best saved for after the ride.

For those who love a good climb, the road up to Mirador del Rio in the far north is a real highlight. Starting from the charming village of Haria, the route winds gently upwards through sweeping bends, eventually reaching the clifftop viewpoint with its breathtaking views across the strait to La Graciosa. The ascent is steady, with a few steeper sections to keep things interesting, and the panorama at the top is truly one of the finest in the Canary Islands. The descent can be exhilarating, but do watch out for the crosswinds that sometimes sweep across the open road.

The Timanfaya circuit is a favourite for many, taking you around the western edge of the island’s famous fire mountains. Setting off from Yaiza, you’ll ride through otherworldly lava fields and past the entrance to Timanfaya National Park, before looping back via Mancha Blanca. The terrain here is mostly gentle, but the winds along the western coast can be a real test of stamina. On this ride, it’s the breeze rather than the hills that will keep you working for every kilometre.

For those looking for a real adventure, the full island loop is the ultimate day out on two wheels. Depending on your chosen route, it’s a journey of 160 to 180 kilometres, with plenty of climbing along the way. Most cyclists set off anti-clockwise, tracing the east coast up to Orzola, crossing to Mirador del Rio, then winding down through Haria and south through the island’s centre before returning along the west coast. It’s a long day in the saddle, and you’ll want to bring plenty of water, as there are stretches where shops and cafes are few and far between.

Mountain biking here on Lanzarote is quite unlike anywhere else in Europe. Instead of forests and marked trails, you’ll find open, untamed landscapes with sandy paths and stretches of volcanic rock. It’s a wild, elemental setting that always reminds me just how unique this island is.

For me, the Famara area is where you’ll find some of the island’s most rewarding mountain biking. The tracks wind along dramatic clifftops and through the sandy hills just behind Famara beach. The ground shifts between firm dirt and softer sand, and the views out over the ocean from the cliffs are truly breathtaking. If you do venture close to the edge, take care—there are no barriers and the drops are sheer.

The hills surrounding Haria offer a more technical challenge, with rocky singletrack weaving through the lush valley. One of my favourite routes is the descent from the Mirador de Haria viewpoint down towards the town, where you can enjoy a mix of winding tarmac and off-road shortcuts.

It’s also possible to ride through the lava fields near Timanfaya, following some of the old tracks that cut across this extraordinary landscape. The ground here is very rough and the volcanic rock can be unforgiving, so I always recommend tubeless tyres with sealant to help avoid punctures. If you’d like to explore some of the more hidden corners of the lava fields, joining a guided mountain bike tour is a great way to discover places that even many locals haven’t seen.

Lanzarote is proud to be home to one of the world’s most established and challenging Ironman races, a fixture on the island since 1992. Each May, athletes from around the globe gather here to test themselves against not just the course, but the unique elements that make Lanzarote so special. The bike route is legendary for its ever-present winds and steady climbs, winding through volcanic landscapes with over 2,500 metres of elevation. The run hugs the coastline, where the afternoon sun adds an extra layer of challenge, reminding everyone that racing here is as much about embracing the island’s character as it is about endurance.

Between November and March, Lanzarote welcomes triathletes from all over, drawn by our gentle winter climate and peaceful roads. There’s something special about swimming in the calm bays or cycling along the same routes as the Ironman, with the island’s dramatic scenery all around you. Club La Santa, tucked away in the north-west, has long been a favourite base for both newcomers and seasoned athletes, offering everything from expert coaching to group rides and a friendly, supportive atmosphere.

If you are preparing for Ironman Lanzarote, I always recommend spending some time on the course itself. The stretch from Yaiza up to Teguise and onwards to Mirador del Rio is especially memorable, with open roads that catch the trade winds and offer a real taste of the island’s wild side. Many athletes find this section the most testing, but it’s also where you truly get to know Lanzarote’s spirit.

You will find bike hire shops in all the main resorts here on Lanzarote. Puerto del Carmen offers the widest choice, with several shops dotted along Avenida de las Playas and tucked away in the old town. Costa Teguise and Playa Blanca also have some excellent options, so wherever you are staying, you will not be far from a set of wheels.

If you are planning a gentle ride along the coast or through the villages, a basic aluminium road bike will do the job nicely and usually costs around 20 euros per day. For those looking to tackle longer distances or steeper climbs, most shops offer carbon road bikes, typically priced between 40 and 60 euros per day depending on the specification. Booking for several days or a week will often bring the daily price down. You will find that most shops stock well-maintained bikes with quality groupsets like Shimano Ultegra or SRAM Rival, and if you are after something a bit special, there are usually a few top-end models available too.

Electric bikes are becoming more popular here, and for good reason. They usually cost between 30 and 40 euros per day and are a great choice if you want to explore the island’s main routes without taking on all the hills and wind under your own steam. E-bikes are also ideal if you are riding with friends or family of different fitness levels, making it easy for everyone to enjoy the journey together.

Mountain bikes are a little more affordable, usually between 15 and 25 euros per day. Most shops have hardtail models ready to go, and you can often request a full-suspension bike if you are planning to tackle rougher terrain. If you are heading out into the lava fields, it is always worth checking the tyres before you set off, as the volcanic rock can be tough on worn rubber.

Most bike hire shops will provide you with a helmet, a basic tool kit, a spare tube and a pump, so you will have everything you need for a day out exploring. Some shops will even deliver and collect your bike from your accommodation for a small extra charge, which is especially handy if you are staying a little further from the centre. If you are visiting during the busy winter months, it is a good idea to book ahead, as the best carbon bikes tend to get snapped up early.

If you fancy exploring Lanzarote by road bike but would rather not worry about finding your way, there are several local companies who organise guided cycling tours. These outings usually come with a support vehicle, friendly guides who know the island’s roads inside out, and a welcome lunch stop along the way. Expect to pay between 50 and 80 euros for a full day out, which is good value considering the peace of mind and local knowledge you gain. The guides are always happy to share their favourite café stops and the best places to refill your water bottle, so you can simply enjoy the ride and the scenery.

Mountain biking here is a real adventure, but the trails can be tricky to follow as most are unmarked and easy to miss. For this reason, a guided tour is often the best way to discover the island’s off-road routes. Most half-day tours include bike hire and cost between 40 and 60 euros, making it a hassle-free way to get out and enjoy Lanzarote’s wild side.

If you prefer a more social spin, Lanzarote’s local cycling clubs are always happy to welcome visiting riders. The club scene here is relaxed and friendly, and the easiest way to join a group ride is simply to ask at one of the bike hire shops or look up local cycling groups online. Most rides set off early on Saturday or Sunday mornings, making the most of the calm before the island’s famous winds arrive later in the day.

If you have spent any time cycling on Lanzarote, you will know that the wind shapes every ride. The north-easterly trade winds are a constant companion, especially from June through August, when they really pick up. Summer days often bring steady winds of 30 to 40 km/h, sometimes even stronger, which can make the exposed coastal stretches and the wild western side of the island a real test of stamina. By contrast, winter and spring are much gentler, with lighter breezes and comfortable temperatures between 18 and 24 degrees. It is no wonder so many cyclists from across Europe choose Lanzarote as their winter escape.

We always recommend setting out early if you want to enjoy the calmest conditions. The wind tends to wake up with the sun and gathers strength as the day goes on, usually peaking by early afternoon. A little local tip: plan your route so you head into the wind on your way out, and let it carry you home when your legs are tired.

Once you leave Arrecife and the main resorts behind, you will find the roads are usually quiet, and most drivers are well accustomed to sharing the space with cyclists. It is always wise to wear something bright and use your lights, particularly when riding through the shaded lava fields where visibility can drop. The tarmac is generally in good shape, but do keep an eye out for patches of sand, especially along the wild western and northern coasts where the wind likes to leave its mark.

It is easy to underestimate how quickly the Lanzarote sun, wind and dry air can leave you parched. Out on the open road, there are long stretches without a shop or café in sight, so we always suggest taking more water than you think you will need. For rides over 50km, two full bottles are a must, and it is worth carrying a third or planning a stop to refill, just to be on the safe side.

Electric bikes have opened up Lanzarote’s cycling routes to just about everyone. The hills and the ever-present breeze that once made some rides a real challenge are now much easier to tackle with a little help from an e-bike. Local hire shops across the island now offer a good selection of e-bikes with enough power and battery life to let you spend a whole day exploring, whether you are heading up into the hills or following the coast. It’s a wonderful way to see more of the island at your own pace.

For those with lower limb disabilities, there is at least one hire shop in Puerto del Carmen that offers hand cycles. These are in short supply, so it’s best to book well in advance. The flatter stretches along the east coast and across the central plain are the most comfortable and enjoyable for adapted bikes, and you’ll find the scenery just as rewarding.

If you are visiting with children, I find that Lanzarote is best suited to those aged 12 and up who are comfortable riding on the road. While traffic is generally light, most roads outside the towns do not have dedicated cycle lanes. For younger riders, the seafront promenades in Puerto del Carmen and Costa Teguise are ideal, with wide, paved paths safely separated from the traffic; perfect for a family outing by the sea.

For older riders, or anyone getting back into cycling after a break, I always recommend the La Geria wine loop. Taken at a gentle pace, the gradients are very manageable and the views across the vineyards are truly special. There are plenty of bodegas along the way where you can pause for a rest and enjoy a glass of local Malvasia wine, making it a lovely way to spend a day in the heart of Lanzarote.