Estepona : blue sea and blue tracks
This story is part of our youReport series.
While Spain is in recession as other European countries, I was impressed to see their investment in transport infrastructure catering for cyclists.
Estepona is a hidden gem within the Costa del Sol in Southern Spain and is often a mecca for cycle professionals taking advantage of nearby mountain ranges and training for competitions such as the Tour de France.
Estepona is also the best place I have ever seen for everyday cyclists. The town has excellent cycleways along the main roads in addition to the seafront. And they’re not just a bit of paint on the carriage way. First of all, the cycleways are clearly identified and marked with bright colours; on the roads with higher speed limits, they are often protected from the motorised traffic by mini bollards. Secondly they have right of way, as shown in the roundabout picture. And they are continuous and well maintained (no potholes!!).
Photo 1 – two-way cycle track, sheltered by kerb and parked cars
Photo 2 – two-way cycle track, sheltered by kerb and parked cars
Photo 3 – two-way cycle lane, separated by mini bollards
Photo 4 – two-way cycle lane, separated by mini bollards and so-called armadillos (ed.)