I arrived in Ronda the day before my ride, buzzing with anticipation. The team at White Village Tours made the process seamless, picking me up bright and early for the drive to Olvera, the starting point of the Via Verde de la Sierra. They provided a comfortable bike, helmet, and a detailed briefing about the route and everything I needed to feel prepared and confident.

As I pedalled out of Olvera, the morning air was cool and crisp. The village’s whitewashed houses gleamed in the early sunlight, perched atop a hill like something out of a fairy tale. The route started gently, with a slight descent that immediately showcased the beauty of the Andalusian countryside. Rolling green hills, ancient olive groves, and wildflowers painted the landscape in shades of green and gold.

For those unfamiliar, the Via Verde de la Sierra is a former railway line turned into a cycling and walking path. It spans about 36 kilometres (22 miles) from Olvera to Puerto Serrano, offering a unique way to explore the region. The gradual inclines and declines, thanks to its railway origins, make it accessible to cyclists of all levels. Along the way, you pass through over 30 tunnels, some short and some stretching hundreds of meters, adding an air of mystery and excitement to the journey.

The first tunnel I encountered was a thrill. It was short, and the light at the end was clearly visible, but cycling through it was a completely new sensation for me. As the ride continued, the tunnels became longer and more frequent. White Village Tours had equipped my bike with lights, so even the darkest tunnels felt manageable and safe. Emerging from each tunnel felt like stepping into a new world, with breathtaking vistas waiting on the other side.

One of the highlights was crossing the Zaframagón Viaduct. The views from the bridge were jaw-dropping—rugged cliffs and the dramatic gorge below took my breath away. It’s also a well-known spot for birdwatching, home to one of Europe’s largest colonies of griffon vultures. Seeing these magnificent birds soaring overhead added a touch of wild magic to the experience.

As a solo traveller, this ride gave me something rare: the perfect mix of solitude and connection. I loved being able to stop whenever I wanted to take photos or simply soak in the scenery. The team at White Village Tours had assured me that they’d provide breakdown support if needed, so I felt completely at ease despite being alone.

The route’s gentle pace allowed me to reflect on my journey, from my roots in West Virginia to my current life in Portugal, and now to this adventure in Spain. Cycling the Via Verde felt like a celebration of independence, discovery, and gratitude for the incredible places this world has to offer.

After a leisurely ride punctuated by plenty of stops to take in the views, I arrived in Puerto Serrano. The sense of accomplishment was immense. The team met me there with a smile and a ride back to Ronda. I’ll admit, part of me wished the ride didn’t have to end—it was that beautiful and peaceful. Back in Ronda, I celebrated with a well-deserved meal and a glass of local wine, reflecting on the day.

If you’re looking for an adventure that combines stunning scenery, fascinating history, and a sense of accomplishment, the Via Verde de la Sierra is for you. It’s perfect for solo travellers like me, as well as couples, families, or groups of friends. The support and convenience provided by White Village Tours make it an easy and stress-free experience.

I came to Andalusia seeking an adventure, and I left with memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just looking for a unique way to explore the Spanish countryside, I can’t recommend this experience enough. Trust me, it’s worth every pedal stroke.