Ride & Seek is thrilled to unveil the 23-Day, 1,488 km “Conquest of the Moors” cycling tour. Split into two stages, intrepid travelers will explore the history of the Moors by cycling from Fez to Tangiers, Morocco, before crossing the Mediterranean Sea to the Iberian Peninsula and riding from Silves, Portugal to Cordoba, Spain on a tour that provides wonderful insight into the legacy left by 700 years of Muslim rule. The epic journey is scheduled for September 28 – October 20, 2020, and ranges in price from $3,874 to $9,767 USD.
The first stage of this grand cycling adventure starts in Fez, a northeastern Moroccan city often referred to as the country’s cultural capital and primarily known for its Fes el Bali walled medina, medieval architecture, vibrant souks, and old-world atmosphere. The route incorporates the Imperial city of Meknes, the Roman archaeological site of Volubilis, and the enchanting town of Ifrane in Morocco’s Middle Atlas Mountains. Next, riders head north to the city of Chefchaouen, known to many in the West as the “Blue City” and Tetouan, known as the “White Dove.” The atmospheric city of Tangiers marks the end of stage one.
Stage two heads across the Mediterranean Sea to the Iberian Peninsula for a cycling journey from Silves, Portugal to Cordoba, Spain. This stretch affords guests a chance to explore a remarkable period of European history. The Islamic influence is still very apparent across southern Portugal and Spain.
“Beginning on the beautiful southern coastline of Portugal, stage two starts in the ancient capital of the region,” said Ride & Seek Founder Dylan Reynolds. “Under the Moors, it held significant strategic importance with boats arriving from North Africa along the Arade River and served as an important trading post and defensive stronghold.”
After crossing the border into Spain, the route heads into the Parque Nacional de Doñana before descending to the town of Jerez de la Frontera.
“Known for its sherry production, equestrian art, and flamenco music, Jerez de la Frontera merits a two-night stay and serves as a great place to enjoy some well-deserved rest,” said Reynolds.
Continuing eastward guests will explore the charming towns of Ronda and Antequera, with its rich Islamic architectural heritage. Walking the spectacular El Caminito del Rey, a path pinned along the steep walls of a narrow gorge is a true highlight of this portion of the tour.
“We then reach one of the jewels in the Moorish crown, Granada, where again we’ll have a two-night stay,” said Reynolds. “Situated in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains this city is home to the sprawling fortress called Alhambra which is UNESCO listed and a true highlight of any visit to the area.”
Guests will have the opportunity to climb the highest paved road in Europe with an ascent of Pico del Veleta (3,380 meters). This 40-kilometer climb is a brutal ride. For most of the group, a day of exploring the enchanting town of Granada will hold more appeal.
From Granada, the tour heads north and slightly back towards the capital of Al-Andalus. Cordoba serves as a fitting end to the tour with the entire historic center UNESCO listed due to its Moorish heritage. The immense La Mezquita is a remarkable example of Moorish architecture and provides a great backdrop for the end of the Conquest of the Moors tour.
Conquest of the Moors Bike Tour Highlights
- Marvel at the remarkable UNESCO sites of Alhambra (Granada) & La Mezquita (Cordoba
- Cycle the road less traveled in the southern Portuguese region of the Algarve
- Explore the labyrinth-like medinas of Fez and Meknes
- Indulge in wonderful Moroccan cuisine exemplified by the most wonderful tagines
- Wander the streets of the enchanting ‘Blue City’ of Chefchauen
- Compare the relative merits of mint tea and coffee at our rest stops in Morocco
- Discover the wonders of Moorish architecture in the enchanting town of Ronda
- Sample the finest sherry and marvel at the equestrian art and flamenco in the town of Jerez
- Climb the highest paved road in Europe – the Pico de Veleta
- Learn about the Moorish legacy with guided tours
- Indulge in the varied gastronomy of Andalucía