Conquest of the Moors Overview – Cycling Tour from Fes to Cordoba
Morocco, Spain, and Portugal Cycling Tour
STAGE 1 – Fes to Tangiers (MOROCCO)
The Morocco Cycling Tour
Our Conquest of the Moors Tour is split into two stages. The first stage the Morocco cycling tour and it gives us a chance to explore one of the ‘countries’ where the Moors originated. This National Geographic 2-minute read gives a succinct take on what that area was, before the creation of the modern-day state system. Our cycling tour in Morocco starts in the remarkable Fes medina and takes us north to the enchanting port city of Tangiers.
The route we take incorporates the Imperial city of Meknes which is named after the Berber tribe known as the Miknasa. A UNESCO listed city it is also close to the remarkable Roman archaeological site of Volubilis (Oualili) which is also Heritage-listed and also on our itinerary. From here, we head into the Middle Atlas mountains and stay in the enchanting town of Ifrane before heading back to Fes.
Our Morocco cycling tour continues as we head north and our route takes us to the delightful city of Chefchaouen that is colloquially known to many in the West as the ‘Blue City’ for obvious reasons. After our stay here we cycle up to Tetouan which is known as the ‘White Dove’ and is a very enchanting stop. The town’s medina is also UNESCO listed and you’ll immediately understand why that is the case. Our destination is the atmospheric city of Tangiers that serves as a wonderful place to mark the end of our first cycle foray on to the African continent.
/> Traditional tannery in Fes, Morocco
STAGE 2 – Silves to Cordoba (PORTUGAL & SPAIN)
At the end of our Moroccan stage, we then head across the Mediterranean to Iberia and cycle through Al-Andalus from Tavira (Portugal) to Cordoba (Spain). The Moorish occupation of the Iberian peninsula began in the year 707 and lasted over 700 years and has left an indelible mark. Our 15-day Portugal cycling tour and Spain cycling tour give us a chance to explore this remarkable period of European history with the Islamic influence still very much apparent across southern Portugal and Spain.
The Portugal Cycling Tour
Beginning on the Algarve, our Portugal cycling tour starts in the town of Tavira. Often referred to as the Venice of the Algarve, this charming town straddles the Gilão River, which then flows into the sea through the inlets and lagoons of the Ria Formosa Natural Park. With its unique mix of traditional Portuguese architecture and Moorish influences it serves as a great starting point for our Iberian journey.
The Spain Cycling Tour
From here we stay above the busy coastline, for which the Algarve is better known today, and remain on the road less travelled as we head towards Spain via the hamlet of Querença. After crossing the border into Spain we then head into the Parque Nacional de Doñana before descending down the coast to the town of Jerez de la Frontera. Latterly known for its sherry production, equestrian art and flamenco, it’s old quarter is built around the 11th-century Moorish fortress Alcázar de Jerez. It merits a two-night stay and serves as a great place to enjoy a rest day.
Panorama of the Alhambra palace in Granada.
Continuing eastwards we visit the enchanting towns of Ronda and Antequera with their rich Islamic architectural heritage. On the way, we will have the option of walking the spectacular Caminito del Rey which has to be seen to be believed. We then reach one of the jewels in the Moorish crown – Granada – where again we’ll have a two-night stay. Situated in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains this city is home to the sprawling fortress called Alhambra (pictured above) which is UNESCO listed and a true highlight of any visit to the area.
Granada serves as another great spot for a day off the bike or in the case of the more ambitious we will provide the opportunity to climb the highest paved road in Europe with an ascent of Pico del Veleta (3380 metres). This 40-kilometre climb is a brutal ride but its so close to the city it would be amiss to include it! For most of the group, we’re sure that a day of exploring the enchanting town of Granada will hold more appeal.
From Granada, we then head north and slightly back on ourselves as we ride towards the capital of Al -Andalus – Cordoba. Cordoba serves as a fitting end to our tour with the entire historic centre UNESCO listed due to its Moorish heritage. The immense La Mezquita is a remarkable example of Moorish architecture and provides a great backdrop for the end of our Conquest of the Moors tour. If you’d like to consider other tours nearby, you might also like to read about our Hannibal Cycling Tour from Spain to Italy. If you have any questions about our tours, please feel free to get in touch.
Team Members on this Tour
Alessandro Allegro - Guide
A native of Piedmont in Italy, Alessandro is just at home in Spain where he brought his daughter up on the Costa Brava. With a surname – Allegro -that translates from Italian to ‘Happy’ in English he was perhaps destined to guide! He’s been cycle guiding for over 20 years and has led countless tours across Europe. He first worked with Dylan on a ‘gelato’ tour back in 2001 so it is wonderful to now have him on the Ride and Seek guide team. His local knowledge of the areas in which he guides and his calm professionalism make him an asset to the team.
First cycling memory:
I was around 4 years old when I received my first Olmo bicycle, however my first real road bike was a Bianchi 1973. I was 16 years old and since that bike that I have been in love with cycling.
Favourite bike:
A Wilier 101 Slr, it was lent to me by the Lampre team, it fitted me perfectly. Only thing missing is the pro legs ;)
Top climb:
In the past years I had the chance to challenge most of the famous climbs over Europe, among the legendary ones my favourite is Col d’Aspin in the Pyrenees, beautiful scenery, mythical ascent and no traffic!
One thing on your bucket list:
Live in a world with fewer cars and more bikes
A special skill you bring on tour:
My passion and knowledge of Italian food and wine
Favourite Ride and Seek tour gastronomic experience:
Nata; a Portuguese custard tart with a coffee is hard to beat for a break off the bike
Languages:
English, Italian, Spanish, French and my German and Croatian are coming on.
Ride and Seek tours you lead:
The Moors Epic
Guido Gazzaniga -
First cycling memory:
My first ride without training wheels, I was four and I was riding in my parents’ house corridor. I clearly remember I saw the sky one second before crashing into a door.
Favourite bike:
My Bice Bicycle steel gravel bike.
Top climb:
I love the alps, so any climb in the alps would fit, but if I have to pick one I would say the Gavia pass.
One thing on your bucket list:
Two things: the Carrettera Austral and a biking trip across Japan
A special skill you bring on tour:
I’m a stress-free person since 2015, at least when I’m on a bike, but I’m doing pretty well also when not riding.
Favourite Ride and Seek tour gastronomic experience:
There is a gelateria in Pienza that is simply one of the best I’ve ever experienced - and I've had lot of gelato in my life!
Languages:
Native Italian, fluent English and French, conversational Spanish and basic Portuguese
Ride and Seek tours you lead:
the 3 Islands Epic, and Hannibal
Sebastien Morice - Guide
First cycling memory:
My first bike was a blue Peugeot road bike, I was 6 years old, a very nice Christmas. It was the signal that I would be allowed to go to school on my own. Very quickly I was able to do, every morning and afternoon, the 3 km that separated me from school. I felt free and loved riding the roads in all weathers.
Favourite bike:
A rocky mountain that I bought myself when I was living in Paris. Hyper responsive, great brakes, I felt it was a part of me, I spent my days roaming the city and did at least 50km every day until I had it stolen.
Top climb:
During a tour in Turkey I climbed a 2000m pass north of Ankara. The landscapes were magnificent and the arrival at the sea just incredible.
One thing on your bucket list:
Going on a long trip with my family, wife and two daughters.
A special skill you bring on tour:
I love making sure that the people around me are happy and I put all my skills at the service of what I invest myself in. Apart from my availability, my skills as a mechanic, my taste for accompanying people, I offer the best of me by massaging. I have been training for a very long time and I am passionate about taking care of the body.
Favourite Ride and Seek tour gastronomic experience:
I hope it will be the next one, I really love to eat well!
Languages:
French, Spanish and English.
Ride and Seek tours you lead:
Conquest of the Moors and Provence Tours
Ben Weigl - Trip Specialist
Ben has been working in the bike tour industry for over 10 years and has owned tour companies, designed itineraries and guided all over the world in that time. A traveller to the core he calls Adelaide home but is rarely there these days. When he is not designing and running tours for Ride and Seek he’ll be found pack-rafting in some remote part of the world or pursuing his charity efforts with Helping Helmets and Africa Goal. His enthusiasm, professionalism, media skills and general tour expertise make Ben a very valued member of the team.
First cycling memory:
Taking the training wheels of my police car painted bike, complete with flashing light and riding down the laneway behind my house with my brother and his fire engine bike. He became a firefighter, I stuck with the bike.
Favourite bike:
Without sounding too much like a hipster, my father’s old Japanese steel Koga - Miyata that I restored and converted into a single speed. Moved through Melbourne traffic like the wind and completed more compliments from bearded men than I care to mention.
Top climb:
Col Agnel, Hannibal - a magnificent history filled, yet little trafficked gateway to Italy
One thing on your bucket list:
Buy a bush plane and get my pilot's licence
A special skill you bring on tour:
Videography and photography….."Smile"!
Favourite Ride and Seek tour gastronomic experience:
The Artisan gelateria in Alba (the town that smells of Nutella), enjoyed as an extended dessert on Hannibal.
Languages:
English & German. My French and Spanish are coming on.
Ride and Seek tours you lead:
I've been involved with all of the Epics to date
Jorge Izquierdo Aguila - Guide
First cycling memory:
The first day I learned to ride a bike without training wheels. My father is behind me holding the saddle then suddenly he is gone. At that moment I discovered the feeling of fear and freedom at the same time. A little later, everything was freedom.
Favourite bike:
My first road bike, Orbea Sierra Nevada, which my parents bought me when I was 13 years old. They bought it big because it was expensive and it should fit me for several years. So big in fact that still today it's my city commuter bike!
Top climb:
Any isolated ascent where there is no traffic. The mountain and the bike alone!
One thing on your bucket list:
Travel the Karakorum highway on my bike.
A special skill you bring on tour:
I really like to sing and I am good at teaching, so I can teach you how easy it is to sing badly.
Favourite Ride and Seek tour gastronomic experience:
Andalusian salmorejo and Mediterranean cuisine.
Languages:
Spanish, a portion of french and a couple of portions of english.
Ride and Seek tours you lead:
Conquest of the Moors
Nathalie Wisse -
First cycling memory:
Uuf! As a Dutchy I cannot remember the first time I rode a bike, but what I do remember is my parents having to push me to school, since I just hated cycling that much! I did have the raddest bright yellow mountain bike, but that didn’t stop me from getting someone to push me (special thanks to my dad!).
Favourite bike:
I’m massively in love with my neon pink retro Specialized, upcycled by a close friend of mine as a surprise!
Top climb:
I’m tempted to say the bridges of the Amsterdam canals, since I’m not much of a cyclist outside of the city… By foot I did climb Vinicunca, also known as Rainbow mountain, in Peru (5200m) and you can find me often with my snowboard at high altitudes in the Swiss alps.
One thing on your bucket list:
Getting dropped out of a helicopter in powder heaven Alaska on my snowboard…
A special skill you bring on tour:
A burning passion for cooking, great food and exciting drinks.
Favourite Ride and Seek tour gastronomic experience:
I hope I can contribute to many, many great gastronomic experiences to come…!
Languages:
Dutch, English, Swiss-German, French.
Ride and Seek tours you lead:
I’m thrilled to say I will be joining you on The Iron Curtain!
Portugal, Spain, and Morocco Cycling Tour Highlights
> Marvel at the remarkable UNESCO sites of Alhambra (Granada) & La Mezquita (Cordoba
> Cycle the road less travelled in the southern Portuguese region of the Algarve
> Explore the labyrinth-like medinas of Fes and Meknes
> Indulge in wonderful Moroccan cuisine exemplified by the most wonderful tagines
> Wander the streets of the enchanting ‘Blue City’ of Chefchauen
> Compare the relative merits of mint tea and coffee at our rest stops in Morocco
> Discover the wonders of Moorish architecture in the enchanting town of Ronda
> Sample the finest sherry and marvel at the equestrian art and flamenco in the town of Jerez
> Take on the highest paved road in Europe – the Pico de Veleta (3380 metres) – this is optional
> Learn about the Moorish legacy with guided tours in Ronda, Granada and Cordoba
> Indulge yourself in the varied gastronomy of Andalucia that embraces the art of the Mediterranean diet
Conquest of the Moors Bike Tour Dates 2023
| Stage | Start Date | End Date | Days | Cost (Euros) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Epic: Fes to Cordoba | 9th April | 2nd May | 24 Days / 23 Nights | €11,850 |
| Stage 1: Fes to Tangiers | 9th April | 18th April | 10 Days / 9 Nights | €4,950 |
| Stage 2: Tavira to Cordoba | 19th April | 2nd May | 14 Days / 13 Nights | €6,930 |
All tours and individual stages are available as a custom tour for your group – contact us for details.
What’s Included?
- Accommodation in our carefully selected hotels
- Meals – hotel breakfasts, snacks en route and pre/post-ride nutrition, lunches including the famed Ride and Seek picnics, multi course group dinners with a focus on the local cuisine.*NB we include occasional independent lunches & dinners to break up the week
- Ride and Seek jersey
- Garmin 1030 use with all routes preloaded
- Ride and Seek water bottle
- Kit laundry service once a week
- Passionate, experienced and knowledgeable guides always on hand to help
Not Included
- Alcoholic beverages
- Bike hire
- Pre & post tour accommodation
Supplements
- Single supplement – Our prices are based on twin/double occupancy. If you wish to have your own room then a supplement is applicable.
Deposit
- To reserve a place on a stage of this tour we ask for a deposit of €1000 (or your local currency equivalent). We also accept payment in GB£ and AU$. The final invoice will include any applicable single supplements and bike hire costs.
Conquest of the Moors Accommodation
Below is a selection of the abodes we have selected for the Conquest of the Moors tour. The local charm and character they offer, combined with the usual frills, is such that they fit the remit we set for all our hotel selections.
Riad El Amine, Fes (Stage 1)
A luxury Riad located in the ancient Medina of Fes, an emblematic 19th century
building, in the Arabic-Andalusian style. We’ll be hosted by our friend Noureddine and his team at this wonderful haven of peace and tranquillity.
Banyan Tree, Tamouda Bay (Stage 1)
One of the most remarkable properties across any of the tours we run. Each room is actually a villa with its own pool! This 25-hectare resort is situated on the Mediterranean and is the perfect place to recharge
Parador de Mazagón (Stage 2)
Located in Doñana National Park, a glorious area of incomparable natural beauty. The hotel overlooks the ocean and virgin beaches in the middle of dense pine woodland. This is a real jewel in the ‘Paradores’ selection.
Hotel Villa, Jerez (Stage 2)
A 5-star hotel in the centre of Jerez that is the perfect base for our rest day here. It offers a lovely combination of luxury and friendliness that is not always found at hotels in this category.
Vincii, Albayzin (Stage 2)
Our rest day hotel in the center of Granada. A typical Andalusian-style building that is filled with exotic details, unique spaces, and Arab-inspired décor. Centrally located it is perfectly located to explore this charming city.
Richard Fletcher’s Moorish Spain tells the story of a vital period in Spanish history which transformed the culture and society, not only of Spain, but of the rest of Europe as well. He manages to both entertain and enlighten the reader as he explores the influence of the Moors have had over architecture, literature, art, and learning in general. The author manages to provide a broad overview without getting bogged down in the minutia. Fletcher’s book provides a great introduction in the subject at hand.
Driving Over Lemons is lighthearted account about life in rural Andalucia. Based around a mountain farm in Las Alpujarras it recounts the experiences of Chris and Ana in this beguiling part the world. With a cast of misfits, peasants, hippies and shepherds the author paints an entertaining picture of life in the region. An entertaining yarn that has parallels with Peter Mayle’s experiences in Provence. This is an easy reading travel book that gives the reader a wonderful insight into the trials, tribulations and joys of living on the farm. A great book to put you in the mood for travelling through the area.
The Myth of the Andalusian Paradise provides a reassessment of medieval Spain, proving that the Muslims were not, in fact, benevolent rulers. Much that is written about “al-Andalus” contends that it was a kind of a multicultural paradise where the main religious groups lived in harmony. Fernández Morera contends that there is a significant issue with this perception – it is a myth!
Hugh Kennedy book – Muslims in Spain and Portugal – is the first study in English of the political history of Muslim Spain and Portugal, based on Arab sources. As such is provides a very interesting alternative perspective since most of the literature in the West views the Moors through the prism of the Christian Reconquest. It provides comprehensive coverage of events across the whole of the region from 711 to the fall of Granada in 1492 ostensibly through Arab eyes.
In Andalus Jason Webster embarks on a quest to discover Spain’s hidden Moorish legacy and lift the lid on a country once forged by both Muslims and Christians. A enchanting yarn that charts the friendship between Webster and a young Moroccan immigrant, Zine, as their lives become entwined through circumstance. A roller-coaster of a ride provides a modern day perspective on the Moorish legacy.
Conquest of the Moors Bike Tour History
The word Moors derives from the Latin mauri, a name for the Berber tribes living in Roman Mauretania (modern day Algeria and Morocco). It has no ethnographic meaning but can be used to refer to all Muslims, Berber or Arab, who conquered the Iberian Peninsula. These Moors, who were religious fanatics, arrived in Spain in the year 711 and thus began a period of history which would shape Iberia differently than the rest of Europe as the land adapted to a new religion, language and culture. Hispania became a part of the caliph of Damascus which was the capital of the Muslim world.
This Moorish land was known as Al-Andalus and included all of the Iberian Peninsula except for the extreme north-west from where the Christian Reconquest would originate.
Strangely Moorish Spain wasn’t really ruled by Arabs. It is true that many high positions were taken by Arabs but most of the Moors were Berbers. Later Muwallads (converted Christians) together with the offspring of the first invaders became dominant in Moorish Spain. The invaders brought no women so the second generation of Moors were already half Hispanic!
The first 40 years of Moorish rule was volatile and Al-Andalus needed order and unity which came in the form of Abd-er-Rahman who arrived in Almuñecar on the coast of Granada in 755. Within a year he became Emir of Al-Andalus and during his 32-year reign he would transform this land into an independent state which was the cultural light of Europe.
In Cordoba Abd-er-Rahman I founded the Mezquita in 785 when he purchased the Christian section of the San Vicente Church, a place the two faiths had shared for 50 years. The Mosque was expanded to its final glory over the next two centuries. This became the second most important place of worship in the Muslim world after Mecca.
The Moors expanded and improved Roman irrigation systems to help develop a strong agricultural sector. They introduced many new crops including the orange, lemon, peach, apricot, fig and pomegranate as well as saffron, sugar cane, cotton, silk and rice which remain some of Spain’s main products today.
Our Conquest of the Moors tour will seek to investigate the significance of the 700 years of Moorish rule in Spain and Portugal and explore the legacy left by this intriguing period in European history.
Next:
Overview
The Trip
Explore the history of the Moors as we cycle first in Morocco from Fes to Tangiers. We then cross the Mediterranean to the Iberian peninsular and ride from Tavira (Portugal) to the old capital of Al- Andalus - Cordoba (Spain) on a tour that provides a wonderful insight into the legacy left by 700 years of Muslim rule.
Email me the Tour Overview Book Now Schedule a CallTour at a Glance
The Epic – Morocco to Spain Dates: 9th April – 2nd May 2023
Countries: Morocco, Portugal & Spain
Number of days: 24 days
Number of stages: 2
Price: €11,850
Grading: 
Stage 1 – Fes to Tangiers Dates: 9th – 18th April 2023
Number of days: 10 days
Price: €4,950
Grading:
Stage 2 – Tavira to Cordoba Dates: 19th April – 2nd May 2023
Number of days: 14 days
Price: €6,930
Grading: 
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