Sierras Subbéticas route

This route through the geographical centre of Andalusia takes us through the skin of a human-influenced, inhabited mountain range, which lives in sustainable equilibrium with the Sierras Subbéticas natural geopark. Cereal fields, olive groves, vineyards and quince trees, villages overhanging cliffs and castles, hamlets perched above the placid waters of their reservoirs, industries redolent with the scent of aniseed and cinnamon, old railway lines now used as greenways, all coexist in harmony with the enormous natural heritage of this mountainous massif. Its winding, fun roads, which are almost always very well surfaced, will ensure that you get the most out of your motorbike on this pleasant and varied route.

On route

You will depart from Lucena, leaving the city through the industrial area on the old Malaga road. You will wind your way alongside the dual carriageway via the national road N-331, and then take the turn-off to the A-344, along a very wide road with fast bends and a landscape, which is full of olive trees as far as the eye can see. Further on, you will leave this road and head south towards the Iznájar reservoir.

Crossing through an impressive tunnel carved into the rock, we reach the Iznájar reservoir (stop 1), which has the largest beach in inland Andalusia. You will then briefly ride through a portion of the northern part of the province of Malaga, passing through the village of Cuevas de San MarcosCuevas de San Marcos, riding by hamlets and farmhouses on very pleasant and winding secondary roads. Exercise caution during the olive harvest, since vehicles leave the olive groves and muddy the asphalt when they leave the groves.

You will cross the Iznájar reservoir - the largest in Andalusia - over an impressive bridge. It is worthwhile to enter the village (stop 2), one of the most beautiful in Cordoba, stroll through its flower-bedecked streets and visit its castle. From Iznájar to Rute the road is broad and offers beautiful views of the reservoir. Before passing through Rute (stop 3), a village with inspiring aromas, you should stop off, visit its museums and buy some of its best food (anisette, buns and shortbread cookies, ham, chocolate, etc.). You will now ride through lands under the protection of the Sierras Subbéticas natural geopark, on a winding road, among impressive mountains and with a spectacular panoramic view. The road is generally in good condition, although you will have to slow down on some sections with speed bumps.

Passing Priego de Córdoba (stop 4), the capital of the Baroque and a must-visit, the road is in very good condition, winding, perfect for enjoying your motorbike, but you must always be careful as you ride. You will go around the north-eastern edge of the natural park, following interconnecting district roads. After leaving Luque (stop 5), you will reach Zuheros (stop 6), whose pristine white stands out against the grey backdrop of its rocks. The Cueva de los Murciélagos and its beautiful and labyrinthine streets are no less striking. Its goat’s cheese is also outstanding. The section of road between Doña Mencía (stop 7) and Cabra (stop 8) is spectacular, with very good asphalt and a perfect route for your motorbike. Finally, you will ride away from the natural park on the motorway to Lucena, the end point of your route (stop 9).

You cannot leave the Subbética district without sampling its exquisite culinary culture, of which its extra virgin olive oil, which has been awarded Protected Designation of Origin status, is the main highlight. Highlights of its cuisine include hearty dishes and pork dishes, such as amonás bean stew from Carcabuey, and ragout; a wide variety of porridges, such as those with figs from Iznájar, croutons from Encinas Reales or those with grape juice in Cabra; traditional rustic, such as mojete de patatas (potatoes in onion, tomato and pepper sauce) from Zuheros, asparagus fritters from Palenciana and naranjas picás (orange salad) with cod and potatoes in garlic and almond sauce, both from Lucena. Of course, we must not forget its wines, under the protected designation of origin Montilla Moriles, or its confectionery, in which turrolate (chocolate nougat) and palillos de leche (cinnamon fingers) Priego are notable.

#zuheros selfie spot

Recognised as one of the most beautiful villages in Spain, its whitewashed hamlet stretches immaculately around its Andalusian castle, which is delicately balanced on the crag. From up on its hillock, broken by the waters of the River Bailón, the rocky outcrop affords exceptional views of the old railway line running underneath it, winding its way through olive groves.