pedElle 2026 - Day 1
Thursday 4th June: Castellar de la Frontera to Ronda
It's a peaceful departure from Hotel La Almoraima in Castellar de la Frontera, deep within the vast Los Alcornocales Natural Park, for the start of pedElle 2026. The 33-strong peloton of women from across the real estate industry are primed for the day ahead: 79km and more than 1,800m of climbing.
After a gentle opening 30kms through rolling countryside, with occasional glimpses of old Moorish watchtowers and white villages perched on distant ridges, the first of the day's major climbs comes into view, setting the tone for what lies ahead. As the road begins to rise into increasingly mountainous terrain, expansive views open up across the rugged landscape. But with the temperature climbing too, there is relief all round on reaching Gaucín for lunch, a chance to refuel and rehydrate before the afternoon challenge.
The second half of the day brings another 20km of climbing in searing heat. Yet the reward is some of the route's most spectacular scenery, with sweeping views across the Genal and Guadiaro valleys. Winding along mountain slopes, with ridge after ridge unfolding into the distance, the route climbs steadily through the Valle del Genal, passing white villages that seem to cling improbably to the hillsides. A brief stop to regroup and replenish in a small Spanish village provides a welcome pause before the final push.
Then comes the reward: a short descent into Ronda, dramatically perched on a rocky plateau above its famous gorge. It has been a tough day in the saddle, with the heat taking its toll, but one that the pedEllers tackle with characteristic determination and style.
pedElle 2026 is raising funds for Coram and its Adoption Services, which support families before, during and after adoption – providing support every step of the way, for life. You can support them here.
