Granada: E-Bike Adventure on the Old Sierra Nevada Tramway

Imagine spending four hours cycling through lush Andalusian landscapes, following the route of Spain’s first high-mountain railway. This e-bike tour in Güéjar Sierra, just a short 15 km from central Granada, offers an exceptional blend of nature, history, and authentic local charm. Led by knowledgeable guides, the experience is perfect for those eager to see a different side of Granada beyond the bustling streets and famous landmarks.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the opportunity to ride along tunnels carved into the rock—a direct link to the region’s engineering past. Second, the chance to relax at old tram stations now transformed into inviting restaurants and cafes, giving you a taste of local life and great scenery. We love that it’s suitable for families, including children up to 18 kg who are accustomed to bike seats.

A potential consideration is that the activity is not designed for those with mobility issues or very low fitness levels. Also, since it’s an outdoor adventure, weather can influence your experience, so check the forecast. This tour suits nature lovers, history buffs, and anyone wanting a peaceful escape from Granada’s heat and crowds.

Key Points

• Unique Route: Follow the historic Sierra Nevada tramway, with tunnels and bridges.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for kids up to 18 kg with prior bike seat experience.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides share stories and insights into the area’s past.
• Natural Beauty: Surrounded by chestnut groves, the Genil River, and mountain air.
• Comfort & Convenience: Electric bikes, helmets, and transport from Granada included.
• Small Group: Limited to four participants, ensuring personalized attention.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

The Location and Setting

Our starting point is the Casa Valentyna cafeteria on Plaza Profesor Fontbote in Granada. The tour begins with a comfortable van ride to Güéjar Sierra, a charming village that feels worlds away from the city’s hustle. Despite its proximity, Güéjar Sierra remains largely untouched by mass tourism, making it the ideal spot to connect with nature and history.

From the moment we arrived, the quiet atmosphere set the tone. The route follows the original path of Spain’s first high-mountain railway, which once linked Granada with the Sierra Nevada. Today, it’s a scenic trail perfect for e-biking—a key reason why this tour receives high marks from travelers.

The Ride and Key Highlights

Once equipped with our electric bikes and helmets, we set off along the old tram route. The ease of the electric bikes was a huge plus—riding through gentle slopes and over bridges felt effortless, letting us focus on the scenery and stories shared by our guide.

The first highlight was passing through dark tunnels carved into the rock. These tunnels, remnants of the railway’s past, elevate the experience from a simple bike ride to a journey through time. As one reviewer put it, it was “a ride through nature’s hidden gem,” and that’s exactly how it felt—peaceful, immersive, and a touch adventurous.

The trail is lined with chestnut groves and follows the Genil River, which adds a gentle, constant backdrop of flowing water and birdsong. We loved the way our guide explained the area’s history, sharing stories about the railway’s construction and its significance for local development.

Stops and Rest Spots

Along the way, there are old tram stations now converted into cozy restaurants and cafes. These stops are perfect for taking a break, soaking in the scenery, and enjoying a local snack or drink. Many reviewers appreciated the relaxing pauses, describing them as “a perfect balance of activity and downtime.”

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The Experience for Families

This tour is a rare find for families. It’s suitable for children up to 18 kg who have prior experience with bike seats, making it a fun, shared adventure for young explorers. The small group size (maximum four participants) ensures plenty of personal attention, which is helpful when navigating the sometimes uneven terrain.

The Guides and Their Knowledge

One of the most praised aspects is the guides’ expertise. Reviewers mention guides like Guillermo or local hosts who “knew every path, story, and sound of the land,” elevating the experience with insights into local history and natural features. Their friendly attitude and knowledge made the ride more meaningful, not just a sightseeing tour but a storytelling journey.

The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

Transportation and Meeting Points

The tour includes complimentary transportation from Granada to Güéjar Sierra. The meeting point is at the Casa Valentyna cafeteria, which opens early at 7:00, so grabbing a coffee before heading out is easy. The activity ends back at the same spot, making logistics straightforward.

Duration and Schedule

The experience lasts about 4 hours, with starting times varying based on availability. It’s best to check ahead and reserve your spot—especially since it’s limited to four people per group, ensuring a quieter, more personalized experience.

What to Bring

Comfortable outdoor clothing, sunglasses, sunscreen, a daypack, and a charged smartphone are recommended. Since weather can change, especially in the mountains, packing a weather-appropriate jacket is wise.

Suitability and Fitness

This tour isn’t suitable for children under 14 or travelers with low fitness levels. The terrain, while manageable, does include some uneven surfaces and gentle inclines, so a basic level of fitness will make the ride more enjoyable. It’s perfect for those who like outdoor activity but don’t want to break a sweat.

Cost and Value

While the exact price isn’t explicitly stated, reviews highlight that it’s an incredibly small price for such a curated experience. Considering the electric bikes, guide, transportation, and scenic stops, it offers excellent value—especially for those looking for a unique, immersive experience in nature and history.

What Reviewers Say

Multiple reviews praise the guides’ knowledge and the overall scenery. One traveler called it “a lovely way to escape the heat of the city,” highlighting the cool mountain air and tranquility. Another mentioned “an unforgettable ride through nature’s hidden gem,” emphasizing how the peaceful environment and expertly guided tour made the experience stand out.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This bike adventure is ideal for those with a curiosity for history and engineering, as well as nature lovers seeking a gentle outdoor activity. It suits travelers wanting a peaceful escape from Granada’s busy streets, especially in good weather. Families with children up to 18 kg who are comfortable on bikes will find it a perfect outing.

However, if you’re looking for a high-adrenaline activity or have mobility issues, this tour might not be for you. It’s also best suited for those who enjoy small group experiences and personalized guidance.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

Absolutely. This tour offers a rare glimpse into a lesser-known chapter of Granada’s past—the historic railway—coupled with stunning natural scenery. The ease of electric biking allows you to enjoy the landscape without exhaustion, making it accessible for most fitness levels. The small group size and expert guides ensure a personalized, insightful experience.

If you’re craving a relaxing yet adventurous day that combines culture, history, and nature, this ride along the Sierra Nevada tramway is a solid choice. It’s a well-organized, authentic outing that rewards curious travelers with peaceful views, stories, and a memorable connection to Granada’s surroundings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children? Yes, children up to 18 kg who have prior experience with bike seats can join. It’s a family-friendly activity, but kids should be comfortable on bikes.

How long does the tour last? The entire experience takes around four hours, including transportation, riding, and stops.

What do I need to bring? Comfortable outdoor clothing, sunglasses, sunscreen, a daypack, and a fully charged smartphone. Weather-appropriate clothing is recommended.

Is transportation included? Yes, transportation from Granada to Güéjar Sierra is included, with liability and accident insurance.

Are the bikes electric? Yes, you’ll ride on electric bikes, which help make the journey smooth and effortless, especially on gentle inclines.

What is the maximum group size? The tour is limited to four participants, ensuring a small, intimate experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, allowing flexibility.

Is the activity suitable for people with low fitness? It’s best for those with at least a basic level of fitness. The terrain is manageable but involves some uneven surfaces.

What’s the main appeal of this tour? The combination of scenic natural landscapes, historical tunnels, and expert guides makes it a unique way to explore Granada’s surroundings in a relaxed, authentic way.

This e-bike journey along the Sierra Nevada tram route offers a perfect blend of history, scenery, and gentle adventure. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or just seeking a peaceful break from city sightseeing, you’ll walk away with more than just photos—you’ll carry memories of an authentic slice of Andalusia.

You can check availability for your dates here: