Mountain biking in Spain

HANDY TIPS

- Take a GPS device or map of the area and a compass with you. Always wear a helmet and suitable clothing. Other important items you shouldn't forget are sunglasses and clear glasses, a toolkit and a small first aid kit if you're going on a long trip. - At night and in tunnels, always wear a reflective or high-vis garment. - Front and rear lights must be visible 50 metres away. - Check the weather forecast before starting out. If you're going to the wilderness, tell someone you trust about your plans. - Choose a route that matches your physical ability. - As a general rule, in Spain cyclists not allowed to ride on motorways (toll and free). Nevertheless, over-14s can cycle along the hard shoulder of toll-free motorways unless otherwise prohibited by a sign. - If you come to Spain by plane and want to bring your bike, you must pack it properly. Some airline companies charge an extra for bikes. This goes for long-distance coach companies too. Take this into account before buying your tickets. - It is advisable to insure your belongings and take out medical insurance and civil liability insurance if you are going mountain biking. Before coming to Spain you might choose to join your country's cycling federation and have it extend your insurance cover to Spain or you can take out travel insurance that covers medical attention and civil liability. - When deciding where to stay, bear in mind that wild camping is not always allowed. - For more information get in touch with the respective cycling federations in each area. You can also visit the website of the Spanish Royal Cycling Federation. - You can download the route tracks from many of the official tourist websites for each Spanish region, and from specialised MTB websites. Many MTB Centres have their own websites. - Various organisations and companies organise guided MTB rides. Many of them even take care of booking accommodation and luggage transfer, and provide maps of the route, GPS tracking, welcome packs, personalised timing, and many other things. - Given that the recommendations and regulations provided may change, we advise you always to check the requirements before starting out on your journey.