Get ready to watch the sweat, over 600 cyclists battle it out in Estepona

Estepona will host the second annual Costa del Sol Gran Fondo on Saturday, October 3 as over 600 cyclists take to the road for a 127km ride. This mass-participation event, which means a long-distance ride, allows participants to ride at their own pace rather than competing for a podium. Riders will depart and arrive at Estepona's fairground and leisure complex, and the route takes them through Casares, Gaucin, Cortes de la Frontera, Jimera de Libar, Benadalid, Algatocin, and Genalguacil, crossing Sierra Bermeja, a mountain range behind the coast.

The total climb is approximately 3,300 metres, with a particularly challenging climb up Peñas Blancas at the 115km mark, where riders ascend from sea level to 1,268 metres. This climb was notably raced during the La Vuelta a España in September, where Eddie Dunbar won the stage. Local businesses hope to benefit from the influx of visitors, as cafes, bars, and hotels will likely see increased patronage.

Those who prefer to watch the event can gather at the fairground on the day to cheer on the riders. Motorists are advised to allow extra travel time and give cyclists ample space as they pass through inland areas. For the most up-to-date information, riders and spectators can visit the event's official website, www.costadelsolgranfondo.com, or check for updates from the local Town Hall regarding any potential road closures.