La Gloria

La Gloria is a self-supported bikepacking overnighter that packs an enormous challenge into a compact route across the rugged mountains of Gran Canaria. Covering 300 kilometres with an impressive 7,000 metres of climbing, it’s a ride that rewards strong legs, smart pacing, and efficient bikepacking skills.

Starting and finishing in Maspalomas, the fixed route links together the island’s best gravel roads, quiet mountain lanes, and scenic double tracks. With around 35% unpaved terrain, riders climb from sea level into Gran Canaria’s dramatic volcanic interior, passing through iconic mountain villages such as Ayacata and Tejeda before descending back to the coast.

La Gloria follows a strict self-supported philosophy. Riders are responsible for their own navigation, resupply, accommodation, and mechanical repairs, with no outside assistance allowed. Although designed as a two-day challenge, experienced riders often aim to complete the entire route in under 24 hours.

The course is fully rideable with no hike-a-bike sections, but its relentless climbing and steep gradients demand low gearing and careful energy management. Combined with Gran Canaria’s changing microclimates—from warm coastal roads to cold, windy mountain summits—La Gloria delivers a surprisingly demanding adventure on one of Europe’s most spectacular winter cycling destinations.

Blending epic scenery, challenging terrain, and the freedom of self-supported riding, La Gloria is an ideal introduction to ultra-distance bikepacking while remaining a worthy test for even the most experienced endurance cyclists.