FAQs
WHAT IS BADLANDS?
Badlands is a community, a land, a personal journey… Badlands was created to encourage the gravel cycling and bikepacking in Eastern Andalusia, the land where the deserts meet deep forests, the Mediterranean coast and mountains above 3.000m.
Although there is a permanent route, once per year there is a gathering for riders coming from all over the world with places very limited, but it is not a race, and there are no rankings or prizes: it is conceived to be a personal adventure where you must complete the route by yourself, making it the wildest gravel challenge in Europe.
HOW TO ENJOY THIS LAND?
This land and this route can be enjoyed in many different ways, in a custom Tour with all the services included, just riding it unplugged by yourself whenever you want… or being part of our annual unsupported adventure sharing a unique experience with riders came to Granada from all over the world.
WHY IS THIS LAND SPECIAL?
Mainly because of the diversity and the beauty of its landscapes, the influence of the different civilizations that have inhabit this region throughout its history (such as Celts, Romans, Visigoths and specially Muslims) and the warmth and hospitality of the locals.
WHAT ABOUT THE ROUTE?
The distance is about 800km. The terrain is not very technical, but the elevation gain is an issue to be considered: the route includes some challenging mountain ranges with a total gain around 16.000m.
AND ABOUT THE WEATHER?
The weather is usually great for cycling throughout the year, but it can be extreme at certain times.
In summer you could have temperatures beyond 40C during midday in the deserts of Gorafe or Tabernas, but also close to 0C at night in the mountains beyond 2.000m. In winter there may be temporary snow cover in those areas located at high altitude, especially in Sierra de los Filabres and Sierra Nevada. And, although it is not usual, it will also be necessary to take into account the possibility of torrential rain in the most sensitive areas.
WHY IS LAUNCHED A DIFFERENT ROUTE EVERY YEAR?
Mainly because this land is endless and has many amazing places to offer. Also because we want to avoid the idea of breaking records. And of course, because we want to maintain the adventurous spirit for those who return to Badlands.
WHAT TYPE OF BIKE DO YOU RECOMMEND?
The route is designed for gravel bikes. We recommend 40-45 tires, wide gearing and bikepacking bags instead of panniers.
In terms of small equipment, we would carry sunscreen, single dose lubricant, electrolytes and a hydration pack, in addition to the basics.
IT’S EASY TO FIND WATER AND FOOD?
If you prepare the route properly you won’t have any problems to find water and food enough en-route. But remember, try to ride with enough autonomy and to fill your bottles whenever you have the chance.
IS CAMPING ALLOWED?
Spanish legislation is quite restrictive on this issue. The regional regulations prohibit “camping and overnight stays for holiday or leisure purposes outside tourist camps”. Fortunately, there are plenty of places to stay along the route.
HOW TO ARRIVE TO GRANADA?
Granada is one of the most populous cities in Andalusia.
The Granada Airport is close to the city center and well connected by Bus.
Granada is also connected with Madrid by Train and Bus, and with Málaga by Bus.