Bike Travel

The Costa del Sol is famous for its sun and sand, but many people supplement their beach time with mountain-bike forays into the hilly interior, particularly around Ojén, near Marbella, and along the mountain roads around Ronda. One popular route, which affords sweeping vistas, follows the mountain road from Ojén west to Istán. The Costa del Sol's temperate climate is ideal for biking, though it's best not to exert yourself on the trails in July and August, when temperatures soar. There are numerous bike-rental shops in the area, particularly in Marbella, Ronda, and Ojén; many shops also arrange bike excursions. The cost to rent a mountain bike for the day is around €20. Guided bike excursions, which include bikes, support staff, and cars, generally start at about €50 a day.

Bike Rental Contact

Bike Tours Malaga. A range of bikes and equipment can be rented here. Insurance is not included. Calle Vendeja 6, Málaga, Andalusia, 29001. 951/252264; www.biketoursmalaga.com.

Marbella Rent a Bike. The roughly 100 bikes available from this company come with locks and helmets. They can be delivered to locations throughout the Costa del Sol. Marbella, Andalusia. 952/811062; www.marbellarentabike.com.