La Vuelta 24
On August 23, 2024, Archidona experienced a historic moment as it became, for the first time, the starting point of a stage of the Vuelta a España. The seventh stage, featuring a medium mountain profile, covered 179 kilometers to Córdoba. The neutralized start took place in the center of Archidona at 1:10 p.m., in an event that attracted numerous fans and was broadcast internationally, showcasing the city’s cultural and natural heritage.
Mayor Manuel Almohalla described the day as the greatest sporting event in the municipality’s history, highlighting its Baroque richness and scenic surroundings. The stage concluded in Córdoba at 5:20 p.m., after tackling the demanding Alto del 14%, although the winner was ultimately decided in a reduced sprint. This event established Archidona as a new landmark in the national sporting scene.
Routes
Archidona - Villanueva del Rosario
Level: Difficult
Time: 1h 5m
Distance: 16.48 km
Route Type: Linear
Elevation Gain: 332 meters
This MTB route connects the towns of Archidona and Villanueva del Rosario. It begins in Archidona, follows the A-7202, and then continues along dirt tracks after passing the prison and the Vivarena stream. It crosses the A-92 via a tunnel, runs through olive-growing farmland, and briefly rejoins the A-7202. The route continues along rural tracks, crossing the MA-224 and the Guadalhorce River. It then follows the bike lane of Camino de las Huertas, turns off onto Avenida de Blas Infante, and ends at the Casa de la Cultura in Villanueva del Rosario.
Archidona - Villanueva del Trabuco
Level: Moderate
Time: 1h
Distance: 14.86 km
Route Type: Linear
Elevation Gain: 252 meters
This linear MTB route begins in Archidona, on Avenida Llano de Pablo Picasso. The route heads north along dirt paths, crosses the A-92 through a tunnel, and approaches the Nieblín stream, passing through the Los Eucaliptos housing development. It then crosses the A-92M and enters the natural reserve of the Archidona Lagoons, between Laguna Grande and Laguna Chica, an area of holm oak forest and native bird species. The route crosses several streams and continues toward the Archidona prison. Finally, it returns to Archidona via the A-7200 from the south.
Sierra de Archidona and fortress climb
Level: Moderate
Time: 1h 10’
Distance: 17.41 km
Route Type: Circular
Elevation Gain: 477 meters
This circular MTB route starts in Archidona and heads northeast along dirt paths, crossing the A-92 and following the MA-221. After passing by the Cueva de Las Grajas, it returns to Archidona from the north, using the bike lane and several streets through the town center. The route ends with a challenging climb to the Castle via the Camino del Santuario, passing the Ermita del Santo Cristo and its viewpoint, offering panoramic views of the town.