Bubión, Spain, is nothing short of a mountain biking paradise. Every year, I dedicate a few weeks to myself—a chance to recharge, reconnect with nature, and fuel up for the months ahead, especially as winter approaches. This past September, I decided to try mountain biking in southern Spain, fulfilling a long-held dream. When I came across Switch-Backs mountain biking vacations, I was hooked. My criteria were simple: remote, away from tourists, preferably set in the mountains, and somewhere new. Bubión delivered beyond my expectations.
Imagine a small village of only a few hundred people, nestled deep in a south-facing valley stretching from the peaks of the Sierra Nevada down to the Mediterranean Sea. The landscape was spectacular! Switch-Backs, renowned for their exceptional mountain biking tours, offers an enduro-style experience: 80% lift-assisted with downhill technical riding. On clear days, the view extended all the way to the African coast. Bubión is one of three villages along the route to the Sierra Nevada park’s summit. This place feels like a hidden gem, with its cluster of whitewashed buildings perched on the mountainside.
Getting There
Travelling to Bubión is straightforward. You can head directly from Malaga airport, where the Switch-Backs team will pick you up, or spend a night or two in Málaga. I chose to arrive a day early and stayed at an Airbnb near the airport for convenience. From there, I took a leisurely walk along Málaga’s waterfront into downtown, stopping at cafés along the way. It was the perfect prelude to my adventure.
The Riding Experience
Switch-Backs offers a unique experience, combining history, adventure, and beautiful scenery. The trails we rode included ancient Roman roads, old military paths, and rediscovered tracks meticulously maintained by the team. Every day brought new terrain to explore. The package includes accommodations, shuttles, and guides, while meals are your on costs and bike rentals are available as add-ons. E-bikes are an option, but you’ll need to book early due to limited availability.
Day 1: Arrival
Our group of five, a mix of Canadians and Brits, met at Málaga airport and made the two-hour drive to Bubión. Our accommodations were in a spacious house located in the heart of the village, complete with four bedrooms, two bathrooms, a kitchen, and a veranda overlooking the valley. For those seeking more privacy, there’s a hotel option nearby. After settling in and assembling our bikes, we headed out for a shakedown ride to make final adjustments and prepare for the week ahead.
Day 2: Let It Rip
The morning began with a leisurely coffee and a Jamón sandwich. I appreciated not having to start too early—our first shuttle departed at 9:30 a.m., giving me time to soak in the views with my breakfast. Our first trail, aptly named “Foreplay,” was a steep but manageable warm-up, introducing us to the terrain. Each run revealed something new, from rugged wilderness and rocky descents to farms and villages. Flying down narrow village streets felt like a Red Bull urban downhill race—an exhilarating experience that became an unforgettable core memory.
After a lunch break, we tackled more trails. By the end of the day, the group was buzzing with high energy, sharing stories and laughs over dinner. The local restaurants offer home-cooked meals featuring fresh, local ingredients. I couldn’t resist the paella and Jamón dishes, and chances are you won’t either.
Day 3: Progression
This day was dedicated to skill-building. The guides offered personalized tips, either by leading and demonstrating techniques or following behind and providing feedback. Since my usual trails back home are less steep, I made the most of this opportunity to refine my skills and build confidence on the rugged terrain.
Day 4: Rest Day
After a few intense days of riding, a rest day was a welcome break. I spent the day exploring the three villages—Capileira, Pampaneira, and Bubión—by bike. Capileira, the highest of the three, offered stunning views, while Pampaneira’s charm made it a highlight of the day. The ride between them was a relaxing way to experience the local culture and scenery.
Day 5: What Goes Up Must Come Down
We started the day in Trevélez, a village famous for its Jamón. From there, we tackled a hike-a-bike over a mountain pass before hitting the “Flowtastick” trail, a thrilling downhill ride. The afternoon brought us to a technical gorge trail with challenging hike-a-bike sections. The heat radiating off the surrounding rocks added another layer of difficulty, but staying hydrated and taking breaks kept me going. The views were worth every effort.
Day 6: Sky to Sea
The final day was a grand finale: an all-day ride starting above the clouds at the mountain’s peak and ending at the sea. It was the perfect conclusion to an incredible week, leaving me with memories that will last a lifetime.
What to Pack
For riding:
- Knee and elbow pads (shin pads are also highly recommended).
- Helmet (full-face or open, depending on your preference).
- First aid kit, riding gear, and glasses.
Extras:
- Sunscreen, lip balm, water bottles, electrolytes, and comfortable clothes for after the ride.
There’s no need for anything fancy; the villages and restaurants are casual and biker-friendly.
This trip was everything I hoped for and more—stunning landscapes, thrilling rides, and the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation in a remote mountain paradise.
Thanks and Credits:
Drop Of Golden Sun 