1️⃣ La Reina (Puerto del León) – The Queen Climb of Málaga
Distance: 16 km Average gradient: 5 % Elevation gain: +800 m
Known as “La Reina” among local cyclists, the Puerto del León is Málaga’s most iconic climb. Starting right from the city (Olletas area), it winds up through the Montes de Málaga Natural Park, offering shade, smooth asphalt and panoramic views of the Mediterranean.
The last 5 km are pure beauty — endless switchbacks surrounded by pine trees and silence. On top, a small restaurant awaits with coffee and views that make the effort worthwhile.
It’s called La Reina, The Queen who, according to legend, drank from the Fountain of the Queen of Malaga was Isabel the Catholic in 1487, while on her way to meet her husband, King Fernando, who was besieging the city.
📍 Tip: Perfect when is a hot day due has big shadows into the forest of Málaga mountains. Combine it with the descent to Colmenar for a full mountain loop.
2️⃣ Olías Climb – The Hidden Gem from El Palo
Distance: 7.5 km Average gradient: 6.5 % Elevation gain: +480 m
Leaving from the coastal neighborhood of El Palo, this climb starts almost at sea level and rises steeply into the hills. Olías is a true gem — narrow, twisty and with gradients that reach 15 % in some sections.
It’s a local favorite for short, intense sessions or as part of a longer route linking to Totalán or La Reina. The views back toward the Mediterranean are absolutely breathtaking, especially during sunset rides.
📍 Tip: Ideal if you’re staying near the east side of Málaga — a must for any rider who loves punchy climbs.
3️⃣ Subida a Almogía – Rolling Andalusian Scenery
Distance: 20 km Average gradient: 3.5 % Elevation gain: +700 m
This is the most scenic climb leaving Málaga to the northwest. The road to Almogía offers a mix of gentle slopes and fast sections through olive groves and open valleys. It’s less steep than La Reina but perfect for endurance training or a long weekend ride.
At the top, you’ll reach a typical Andalusian village where you can stop for a café con leche and enjoy views that stretch all the way to the sea.
📍 Tip: Combine it with Villanueva de la Concepción for a longer ride and a heavy loop.
4️⃣ Subida de “Patascortas” (Camino de Casabermeja) – Short but Brutal
Distance: 18.6 km Average gradient: 4.8 % Elevation gain: +899 m
One of the more quiets roads of Málaga, Patascortas is a real peace area without cars. The climb starts near Ciudad Jardín and quickly ramps up with double-digit gradients. It’s a popular test piece among locals to measure form before racing season.
Once you reach the top, the views toward the Montes de Málaga make it all worth it. From there, you can link directly to the Puerto del León after the downhill to Casabermeja for a longer mountain day.
📍 Tip: A great option for riders short on time but craving intensity.
🌞 Ride All Year in the Perfect Cycling Climate
With over 300 days of sunshine per year, Málaga offers ideal conditions for road cycling in any season. Whether you’re training for a Gran Fondo, escaping the northern winter, or just exploring new roads, these climbs deliver everything a cyclist could wish for: challenge, scenery, and Mediterranean charm.
🚴♂️ Ready to Ride These Climbs?
Experience the best cycling routes of Málaga with Malaga Rent a Bike.
We offer high-quality road bikes, gravel and e-bikes — perfect for tackling climbs like La Reina, Olías, Almogía, and Patascortas directly from your hotel.
