the tres mil

This is The Big One.  The Daddy.  The Beast.  Call it what you will, but it’s the trip that allows you go home and brag to your mates for years to come.

The tres mil is a 7 day point-to-point trip taking you up and over one of the highest mountain passes in Europe.  Although to call it a pass is not strictly true, as you’re actually riding over the mountain, not past it.

Depending on the season we run the tres mil in different directions.  In the cooler months we start on the coast in Almeria, and traverse west through the Alpujarra, then over Veleta, finishing in Granada for some serious partying.

In summer we do it the other way round, meaning you get to finish at the coast and spend your final day crashed on the beach drinking cocktails – or doing some more riding should you prefer.

Either way you'll be blown away by the scenery, and amazed by the changes in it as you ride through.  From the populated towns of the Costa we ride through the dusty desert beauty of the eastern Alpujarra, and onto the white villages of La Taha.  From there we climb and traverse to the lush green terraces of the Poquiera Gorge.  This is where the fun really starts, climbing up and over the old mountain road from Capileira, topping out at Veleta.  From there it's a descent down to the ski-station at Pradallano, and onwards to Granada.

Riding

As you can imagine, a certain degree of fitness and stamina is required to get the best out of the tres mil. That said, we have 4x4 support over much of the route, and can scoop you up should you begin to flag.  The riding is a combination of fire road, single-track climbing/traversing and technical descents.  Given the amount of climbing in this trip a trail bike is probably most suitable, though we still strongly recommend full suspension.  Something along the lines of a Santa Cruz Blur or Specialised Stumpjumper would be perfect. 

Accommodation

Throughout the tres mil we stay in rural B&B’s or small hotels, with your bags in place and rooms prepared for your arrival each night.  Each place is simple, rustic and charming: everyone tends to have their own favourite. 

Catering

Breakfast and lunch is included each day. Breakfast is taken at your accommodation, and lunch is either packed up and taken with you or provided as a picnic from the 4x4. Evening meals are not included in the price and are either taken out or at the hotel.  During busy seasons we’ll always book a table ahead for you, so you’ll never be wondering the streets looking for a feed!

Cost

€800 for week.

2009 Dates

(no availability left for 2008)

9th - 16th May; 20th - 27th June; 4th - 11th July