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If you’ve been planning a cycling trip to the famous Vía Verde de la Sierra this month, you’ve likely heard the rumors. As the leading local bike tour operator here in the Serranía de Ronda, we want to give you the straight facts so you can save your holiday.
The Current Reality: A Trail in Pieces
The Current Reality: A Trail in Pieces
Following the record-breaking storms of early 2026, the Vía Verde de la Sierra has suffered structural damage unlike anything we’ve seen in decades. While the hardworking crews have managed to reopen small sections, the route is currently fragmented into three disconnected "islands":
Puerto Serrano: A 3 km stretch to the Reyerta tunnel.
Coripe: A tiny 1 km section.
Zaframagón: A 3.8 km stretch near the observatory.
With the tunnels between Olvera and Coripe still undergoing structural repairs, the classic 36 km "point-to-point" experience is currently not possible.
Don’t Cancel Your Ride – Just Change the Destination
Don’t Cancel Your Ride – Just Change the Destination
At White Village Tours, we believe the best cycling in Andalusia shouldn't depend on a single trail. While the Vía Verde recovers, we are inviting our guests to experience our favourite Vía Verde Alternative:
The "Setenil Express": Ronda to the Cave Houses
The "Setenil Express": Ronda to the Cave Houses
Instead of driving out to a closed station in Olvera, our Ronda to Setenil de las Bodegas route is 100% open, fully operational, and offers an experience that many of our guests actually prefer over the original Vía Verde.
Distance: 30 km of continuous, flowing terrain.
The Route: We bypass the closures and take you through ancient Mediterranean oak forests (The Dehesa), past the boutique vineyards of Arriate, and through rolling olive groves.
The Finish: Unlike the Vía Verde, which ends at a quiet station, this route concludes in the heart of Setenil de las Bodegas. You’ll finish your ride under the massive natural rock overhangs of one of Spain’s most famous "Pueblos Blancos."
The Logistics: No broken tunnels, no "ida y vuelta" (out and back) riding. We handle the bikes and the transport back to Ronda.
Why Choose White Village Tours This Month?
Why Choose White Village Tours This Month?
The Sierra is our home. While other operators might leave you to find out the road is closed when you arrive at the trailhead, we provide:
Real-time updates on road closures like the CA-9104.
Expert guidance on which trails are safe and scenic.
Guaranteed departures on our Setenil route.
The Vía Verde will return, but your holiday is happening NOW.
Some of Our Popular Experiences
Some of Our Popular Experiences
FAQs
FAQs
Q: Is the Vía Verde de la Sierra fully open in May 2026?
Q: Is the Vía Verde de la Sierra fully open in May 2026?
A: No. Due to structural damage from winter storms, the 36.5 km route is currently fragmented. While small sections near Puerto Serrano (3 km), Coripe (1 km), and Zaframagón (3.8 km) are open for "out-and-back" trips, the tunnels are closed and the full route is not connected.
Q: Why are the tunnels on the Vía Verde closed?
Q: Why are the tunnels on the Vía Verde closed?
A: Technical inspections in March and April 2026 revealed structural fissures and cracks in several tunnels, particularly near Olvera. For safety reasons, these sections remain closed until emergency repairs—funded by the "Plan Andalucía Actúa"—are completed.
Q: Can I still visit the Zaframagón Bird Observatory?
Q: Can I still visit the Zaframagón Bird Observatory?
A: Yes, the 3.8 km stretch from the "Ventanilla de Zaframagón" to the "Alberquilla" tunnel is open, providing access to the Observatory and Canteen. However, note that these facilities may have variable hours; for example, they are hosting an Open House on May 10, 2026.
Q: What is the best alternative cycling route near Ronda?
Q: What is the best alternative cycling route near Ronda?
A: The "Ronda to Setenil de las Bodegas" route is the premier alternative. It offers a 30-35 km continuous ride through vineyards and oak forests, finishing at the famous cave houses of Setenil. Unlike the Vía Verde, this route is 100% open and avoids all current road and trail closures.
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