Gran Fondo Pico de las Nieves – Ciclismo a Fondo

Gran Fondo Pico de las Nieves – Ciclismo a Fondo

Gran Fondo Pico de las Nieves is the flagship winter cyclosportive on Gran Canaria. In 2026 it launches a partnership with Ciclismo a Fondo magazine, which now gives the event its name, and keeps Arucas as its epicentre: the start is given from the Plaza de la Constitución, in the town’s historic centre. It also opens Gran Canaria Bike Week, the island’s bicycle week held since 1988.

A 125-kilometre route to the roof of the island

The main route combines 125 km with 3,324 m of elevation gain, and its backbone is the climb to Pico de las Nieves, at 1,935 m, one of the longest and toughest ascents you can ride in Spain. The route includes three timed segments that decide the classification. Riders after a more manageable challenge have the Artenara route, 59 km and 1,845 m+, which shares the first timed segment with the Gran Fondo and finishes in the Plaza de Artenara.

Winter cycling with the best climate in Europe

In late November, while the continent moves into winter, Gran Canaria offers mild temperatures on the coast and open, well-surfaced mountain roads. That contrast, along with organisation by DG Eventos and institutional backing from the island government, has made the event a meeting point for hundreds of Spanish and international riders.

Arucas and Gran Canaria beyond the ride

Arucas keeps a monumental historic centre with its neo-Gothic church, the Casa de la Cultura and the tradition of Canarian rum and bananas. From there, the island unfolds the Caldera de Bandama, the Roque Nublo, the Agaete valley and dozens of climbs that make it worth staying to ride all week. Discover more rides in the region at Canary Islands.