For those new to the “The VUELTA”, be advised that, in order to get the best out of this event, you should be able to, at least, ride 150 miles in one day (6:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.), at an average speed of 15 mph. The tour is certainly not for the faint at heart. As a rule of thumb, if you can ride 100 miles under 7 hours including all your stops, you are good to go!!
The VUELTA will take cyclists on a 3 day, 375 mile journey around the entire island. The route passes through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world, including the lush foothills of the tropical rainforest, serene coconut plantations, exotic beaches, world-class marinas, and 43 glittering coastal towns. Cyclists will also pass by the 9 historic lighthouses (los faros) that give us our name, “La VUELTA de los Nueve Faros”. Riders will enjoy fully-stocked rest stops, SAG support, an official jersey, finishers medal, goodie bag, EXPO, massage therapy, entertainment, and the pleasure of riding with some of the friendliest and hospitable people ever…the Puerto Rican Cyclists!!
The first day of the VUELTA will begin in Old San Juan and head east to Fajardo and Las Croabas beach. Scan the horizon for views of St. Thomas as you fuel up at our first rest stop. The ride only gets better as we ride through Maunabo, catching the views from the top of Camino Nuevo and the Punta Tuna lighthouse.
Day two begins in Ponce and passes by the Guanica lighthouse, but not before stopping at the ruins in Yauco for a morning snack. Before this day is over riders will see the village of La Parguera, the dry forests of the southern coast, and the stunning stone cliffs at Los Morillos lighthouse in Cabo Rojo. Don’t pass up your complimentary massage as we arrive in Mayaguez…you earned it!
Our last day of riding might make you want to “hang ten” as we pass through some of the most well known surfing spots in Rincon and Isabela. Lunch is served with a view of the lighthouse at Arecibo before the entire VUELTA meets up together in Dorado. Our grand entrance into Old San Juan will be met with food, entertainment, and surprises as we cap off three days of amazing cycling!