Torre del Mar Lighthouse – View of Vélez-Málaga loop from Caleta de Vélez

Bike touring routes & trails

Torre del Mar Lighthouse – View of Vélez-Málaga loop from Caleta de Vélez

Moderate

3.8

(20)

riders

Torre del Mar Lighthouse – View of Vélez-Málaga loop from Caleta de Vélez

01:50

30.0km

190m

Cycling

Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.

Last updated: August 28, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Bus stop

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1.89 km

Camino de Torrox - Sierras view

Highlight • Trail

This section offers choice between the quiet rural road and the unpaved but even quieter farm roads and trails in parallel. Either way the views of the Sierras towering to the East are stunning

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9.89 km

Torre del Mar Lighthouse

Highlight • Monument

The original lighthouse was built in 1864, but due to coastal erosion and other problems, it was rebuilt and relocated several times. The current lighthouse was finally built in its current position in 1976 after several moves.

The Torre del Mar lighthouse is not only a functional part of coastal navigation, but also a popular destination for a tour, especially at sunset. The lighthouse is a fine example of the combination of modern technology with the traditions of seafaring along the Spanish coast.

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10.4 km

Playa del Varadero

Highlight • Beach

Playa de Varadero is located at the western end of the Torre del Mar seafront, near the mouth of the Vélez River. A special feature of Playa de Varadero is the regular presence of jábegas, traditional Andalusian fishing boats, which can often be seen along the coast. Overall, the stretch of beach is a lovely destination for anyone looking to spend a relaxing day by the sea in an authentic atmosphere.

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11.5 km

Mouth of the Vélez River

Highlight • River

There is a bird observatory. It is recommended not to make excessive noise and not access the interior areas of the River to avoid disturbing the birds that are nesting during the laying season.

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12.8 km

Torre Vigía Manganeta

Highlight • Historical Site

The Torre Vigía Manganeta is a historic watchtower on the coast of Almayate Bajo, near the mouth of the Vélez River. It was built in the 16th century during the reign of Philip II as part of the Spanish coastal defense system to protect the region from pirate attacks. Raids by North African corsairs, in particular, made such watchtowers necessary.

The cylindrical tower reaches a height of approximately 8 to 10 meters and has a diameter of around 4 meters. It is made of stone and mortar, a typical construction method for coastal watchtowers of that period. Its location near the beach, south of Almayate Bajo and not far from the Vélez River, allowed control of the stretch of coast between Torre del Mar and Benajarafe. Today, the Torre Manganeta is protected as a historical monument and is part of the cultural heritage of Andalusia.

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13.4 km

Manganeto, roman pottery kilns

Highlight • Historical Site

16.7 km

View of Vélez-Málaga

Highlight • Viewpoint

Vélez-Málaga offers some impressive views, especially when exploring the region by bike. The Camino de la Ribera is a beautiful route that is great for touring. The path runs along the Vélez River and offers views of the surrounding hills, olive groves and Axarquía countryside. The Camino de la Ribera is relatively flat, making it ideal for a relaxed bike ride. There are many opportunities to stop along the way to enjoy the surroundings and take great photos.

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29.1 km