Women's Cycling in Lanzarote: Routes, Community and Women Who Ride the Island

Lanzarote has become an increasingly popular destination for women cyclists. The combination of varied terrain, generally safe roads, a growing community and a climate that allows riding year-round makes the island an attractive option for women who ride at every level.

But women's cycling has its own characteristics, questions and needs. From choosing the right bike and gear to finding routes that feel comfortable and safe, there are specific aspects that deserve a dedicated guide.

In this article we cover recommended routes for women cyclists in Lanzarote, practical advice on safety, equipment and community, and how Papagayo Bike can help you find the right bike for your ride.

Why more women are choosing Lanzarote for cycling

The growth of women's cycling in Lanzarote isn't random. Several factors make the island particularly appealing:

Safety on the roads

Road safety is one of the main concerns for women cyclists, especially when riding alone. Lanzarote has relatively low traffic on most roads outside urban areas, well-maintained tarmac and a driving culture that, while not perfect, is generally more respectful of cyclists than in many European destinations.

Varied terrain for every level

From flat coastal routes to challenging climbs, Lanzarote offers options for every level. This means that women who are new to cycling can find comfortable routes, while experienced cyclists can push themselves on more demanding terrain.

A growing community

The community of women cyclists on the island is growing. There are informal groups, organised rides and training camps that welcome women. This makes it easier to find riding partners, share routes and feel part of something.

The e-bike factor

The availability of e-bikes has been a game-changer for women's cycling. It allows women who are new to cycling, recovering from injury or simply wanting to enjoy the island without excessive effort to cover significant distances and participate in group rides.

Recommended routes for women cyclists

Beginner: Puerto del Carmen promenade

If you're new to cycling or just want a gentle, flat ride by the sea, the Puerto del Carmen promenade is the ideal starting point. It's well-paved, free of motor traffic and offers sea views throughout. You can ride at your own pace, stop for a drink and enjoy the coast without any pressure.

Distance: 6-8 km round trip. Completely flat. Suitable for any type of bike.

Intermediate: Costa Teguise to Arrecife

A step up from the promenade, this route follows the coast from Costa Teguise to Arrecife and beyond. It's still largely flat, but offers more distance, more variety and a sense of real cycling. The views change constantly, and there are plenty of places to stop.

Distance: 15-25 km round trip depending on how far you go. Mostly flat with some gentle undulations.

Intermediate-advanced: South route to Playa Blanca

For women who ride regularly and want a longer, more varied route, the south of the island offers a beautiful ride. From Puerto del Carmen or Playa Blanca, you can explore the southern coast, the volcanic landscape around Timanfaya and the charming village of Yaiza.

Distance: 40-60 km depending on the route. Variable elevation with some climbs. Recommended for women with road cycling experience.

Advanced: North route to Órzola

For experienced women cyclists, the route to Órzola in the north of the island is one of Lanzarote's most rewarding rides. The landscape changes dramatically as you head north, the sea views are spectacular and the arrival at Órzola with La Graciosa on the horizon is worth every pedal stroke.

Distance: 60-80 km round trip. Moderate elevation. Exposed to wind.

E-bike: Coastal exploration routes

For women who want to explore without the physical demands, e-bikes open up routes that would otherwise be out of reach. The coastal route from Costa Teguise through Arrecife to Puerto del Carmen, or the exploration of Playa Blanca and the south, become accessible and enjoyable for all fitness levels.

Safety tips for women cycling in Lanzarote

Riding alone

Lanzarote is generally a safe destination for solo cycling, but common-sense precautions always apply:

• Share your route. Let someone know where you're going and when you expect to be back.
• Carry your phone. Make sure it's charged and in a waterproof case.
• Choose busier roads for solo rides. The main roads between towns have more traffic and more help available if needed.
• Carry basic tools and ID. A spare tube, multi-tool and your ID are essentials.
• Plan your refuelling points. Know where you can stop for water and food along your route.

Riding in a group

If you're new to Lanzarote, joining a group ride is one of the best ways to discover the island safely. Group rides offer local knowledge, mechanical support, and the reassurance of riding with others. Ask at Papagayo Bike about group rides and recommendations.

Road etiquette

Spanish traffic law requires cyclists to ride on the right, use hand signals and have lights at night. In Lanzarote, the main cycling areas are used to seeing cyclists, but it's always wise to ride predictably and visibly, especially on roads with faster traffic.

Equipment and gear for women cyclists

The right bike

Choosing the right bike is the first step to enjoying cycling. For women in Lanzarote, the options include:

• Road bike: For women who ride regularly and want to cover distance and elevation.
• E-bike: For women who want to explore without excessive effort, ride with partners at different levels or simply enjoy the island at a comfortable pace.
• Touring/city bike: For casual rides along the coast and gentle exploration.
• Gravel bike: For women who want to mix road and off-road riding.

At Papagayo Bike, you'll find options for every type of ride and every level. The team can advise you on the best bike for your plan and your experience.

Clothing

Women's cycling clothing has improved significantly in recent years. The key items for Lanzarote:

• Quality bib shorts with a women-specific chamois. Long days in the saddle demand good padding.
• Light, breathable jerseys in light colours for sun protection.
• UV-protection sunglasses — essential on the island.
• Sports sun cream SPF 50 — volcanic terrain reflects radiation intensely.
• A light wind vest — always useful in Lanzarote.
• Comfortable cycling shoes — whether you ride clipless or flat, comfort matters.

The saddle question

One of the most common concerns for women cyclists is saddle comfort. If you're renting a bike, ask about saddle options. Many women bring their own saddle and have it installed on the rental bike. It's a small change that can make a huge difference on multi-day rides.

The community of women who ride

Women's cycling in Lanzarote is more than just individual rides. There's a growing community of local and visiting women who ride together, share routes and support each other.

Group rides

Several groups organise regular rides for women. These range from gentle social rides to more demanding training sessions. Joining a group ride is an excellent way to discover routes, meet other women cyclists and feel part of the cycling community.

Training camps

Women-focused training camps have become popular in Lanzarote. These camps offer coached rides, skills sessions, nutrition advice and the camaraderie of riding with other women in a supportive environment.

Online community

Social media groups and cycling forums connect women cyclists visiting Lanzarote. It's worth joining these groups before your trip to find riding partners, get route recommendations and ask questions about the island.

Cycling and confidence

One of the barriers to women's cycling is confidence. The feeling of not being fast enough, experienced enough or fit enough can prevent women from getting on a bike or from trying new routes.

The reality is that Lanzarote has routes for every level. You don't need to be an athlete to enjoy the island by bike. A coastal ride on an e-bike, a gentle morning spin along the promenade, a social ride with friends — these are all valid ways to experience Lanzarote on two wheels.

And if confidence is holding you back, the e-bike is a powerful tool. It removes the fear of not being able to keep up, not being able to make it up a hill or not being able to get back. With an e-bike, you can ride further, try more routes and build your fitness and confidence gradually.

Related articles

• Best cycling routes in Lanzarote
• E-bikes in Lanzarote
• Family cycling in Lanzarote

Rent your bike with Papagayo Bike

Whether you're an experienced cyclist or getting on a bike for the first time in years, Papagayo Bike has options for you. Road bikes, e-bikes, touring bikes and more — all properly maintained and adjusted to your needs.

The team can recommend routes based on your level, advise you on the best bike for your plan and provide support throughout your rental. Check the bicycle rental options in Lanzarote and start planning your ride.

Because Lanzarote is an island that deserves to be explored by bike. And every woman who rides it makes the community stronger.