Frequently asked questions
Do I need to be fit?
In short, it is of benefit but not essential (see below). However, a basic level of fitness and some previous experience riding a mountain bike off road does help!
I'm not feeling at my fittest or I prefer more DOWN than up, can you still accommodate me?
Of course! We have easier routes available for beginners and intermediates. We can also arrange up lift days for the more Down Hill orientated as well as tailoring our normal AM/XC routes meaning you'll do more down than up!
Your standard bookings are from Sat to Sat. Is it possible to start the holiday on another day?
Yes no problem.
What about short breaks and long weekends, are these possible?
Again no problem, just email us with your dates and we will check availability for you.
The price includes an unlimited free bar. What does this mean?
We offer locally produced lager along with red, white and rose house wines. At an extra cost you can enjoy branded lagers, wines, spirits and soft drinks such as coca cola, fanta, 7up etc. Our bar is unlimited, meaning we will constantly keep it (and all other provisions) topped up over the course of your stay - so never fear, you'll never run out of beer!
What hire bikes do you have available?
We have a superb fleet of full suspension hire bikes. These range from the brand new Specialized Pitch FSR to the world renowned Specialized Stumpjumper FSR. The Pitch boasts 140mm of travel provided by a set of PIKES - perfect for those all mountain rides. The Stumpjumper offers 130mm of travel with lock out (front and rear) making mince meat of any climb, once at the top switch the suspension back on for the blast down. Our bikes come in a range of sizes, please enquire for availability.
I don't fancy riding every day or I am coming with a non-riding partner, what other activities are available outside of the accommodation?
We offer day trips to places such as Seville, Granada (The Alhambra), Cordoba (The Mezquita) as well as local towns such as Cabra and Zuheros. Other activities available include walking, climbing, horse riding, skiing, golf and quad biking. We will even arrange a tour of the local bodega (wine distillery).
How can I get the best deals on flights?
Using a price comparison web site is often the most efficient way of booking flights saving you time and money. Below are a couple of tried and trusted sites we have used in the past: www.skyscanner.net www.moneysupermarket.com
We would like to minimize the cost of the holiday by cooking our own meals. Is this possible?
Yes. We have a fully equipped kitchen and the village shop is only 5 minute walk away from the house. Breakfast is included in the cost of your holiday.
How much does it cost to eat out?
In the local area you can eat out for less than 15€ a night which will buy you a two course meal with drinks. Menu of the day (3 course and drink) can be had for lunch from as little as 7€. Home cooked meals are available at the house from as little as €10 per person (inc 3 course meal and house drinks).
What do I need to bring?
Proof of insurance, we recommend Sports Cover Direct
European Health or EHIC card, available free from: www.dh.gov.uk
Riding helmet (no riding without these - sorry),
Hydration pack (we have these available to hire),
Your own pedals and seat if you prefer to use these with our hire bikes,
Slime tubes (we recommend Dr Sludge inner tubes available from www.chainreactioncycles.com) or you can buy them from us,
Your usual medication/inhalers etc.
You say you have been recommended by the Guardian, can I read the article?
Joyriders were the only Spanish mountain bike holiday to be recommended in the Guardians "Head in the Clouds" article. You can find it at: http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/2008/jun/14/lakesandmountains.biking.hiking?page=all