Mountain biking Veleta / Mulhacen Sierra Nevada
At 3394 meters Veleta is the 2nd highest mountain in Sierra Nevada after Mulhacen (3482m) This makes Veleta the 3rd highest in continental Spain after Mulhacen and Aneto 3403m. It is possible to mountain bike to the top of Veleta.
Up until the late 80's an un-metalled road passed just below the peak, due to environmental reasons the pass was closed at 2200 meters on the south side and 2600 meters on the north side to all but walkers and cyclists. Excellent!
The mountain bike ride takes approximately 6 hours at a steady pace. On a my recent trip it took 4 hours to the summit with a 20 minute break and one hour twenty to descend. It is technically not a difficult ride but is very rewarding with stunning views and an exciting descent... where else can you descend for over an hour?
The Ascent starts at 2200 meters at the highest point open to traffic from the south side. From here the dirt track runs steadily up through the last of the trees and along a ridge to the base of Mulhacen's peak. From here it is possible to hike to the top of Mulhacen if you have the energy. The track becomes rough with larger rocks as it winds its way around the side of Mulhacen to a glacial lake at approx 3000 metres.
The ridge then winds its way from Mulhacen to Veleta with a series of small ups and downs before starting a series of hairpin bends to the top of the old pass.
Once at the top of the pass you can see north with views of the Sierra Nevada ski resort and Granada.
The final bit of ascent is metalled up a series of hairpins to small station just below the peak. A 360° video clip from the peak will be available here shortly
This optional day trip from Cortijo Las Cuartillas completes any mountain biking holiday. This trip is not possible at all times of the year due to snow cover.