Morocco Desert Raid. Day 15. “Maybe the best road I’ve ever ridden”

Maybe the best road I’ve ever ridden

The morning after one too many beers, the team was a little worse for wear but ready to hit the road. Day 15 of the Morocco Desert Raid 25 tour promised some serious riding through Spain’s stunning mountain roads. We kicked off in Marbella, heading north along the legendary Ferrari road. This snaking ribbon of asphalt climbs the mountainside into the Sierra de las Nieves, a place where curves never seem to end. If Ferrari chose this road to showcase their red cars, it’s easy to see why—it’s a playground for any motorbike lover.

Curves of the Ferrari road winding through Sierra de las Nieves

The Ferrari Road and a Quick Pit Stop

The Ferrari road lives up to its reputation. Every bend invites you to lean in, every straight lets you stretch your legs. The views are spectacular, with the mountains rolling away on either side. We stopped for elevenses at El Burgo, a small town that offers a pleasant break and some much-needed coffee. The atmosphere was relaxed, the perfect spot to recharge before the next leg.

But just 10 minutes out of town, the day threw us a curveball. One of the Tiger 900's in the group picked up a puncture—a crosshead screw right in the middle of the tyre. Luckily, the magic mushroom repair kit made another appearance. In under eight minutes, the tyre was patched and holding pressure. We’re getting pretty slick at these roadside repairs, which is a must on any guided motorcycle tour where time is tight and the roads keep calling.

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Lunch Turns into a Siesta

We aimed for an early lunch at Restaurant Ponce, hoping to beat the lunchtime rush. We succeeded, but only just. The place filled up fast with local workers, and what was supposed to be a quick bite stretched into an hour-long event. It was a laid-back affair, full of laughter and stories, but it did put us behind schedule.

The Hidden Gem: Sierra de Cardeña y Montoro

Running late but undeterred, I insisted on showing the group a road I hold dear through the Sierra de Cardeña y Montoro. This stretch is not about speed; it’s about the ride itself. The road follows the ridge line, offering breathtaking views that stretch for miles on both sides. It’s quiet, almost deserted, and every twist feels like a secret shared between rider and mountain.

Road sign pointing to Navahermosa, punctured by multiple bullet holes, stands against a rural landscape on highway CM-4157.

At the bottom of the descent, I caught the biggest smile on my face. One of the riders turned to me and said, “This might just be the best road I’ve ever ridden.” That’s the kind of praise that makes all the planning and bumps and punctures worth it. This road is pure motorbike nirvana, a must-ride for anyone who loves the thrill of the ride combined with stunning scenery.

Racing Against the Clock

With time slipping away, we made a beeline for the hotel outside Puertollano. The Tiger’s tyres and wheels were holding up well, despite the earlier punctures and some rough handling. There wasn’t time to take the wheel off and hammer it back into shape, but since it was still holding pressure, we decided to leave it until we got home. Sometimes, you just have to trust the bike and keep moving.

The wheel was holding up.

Why This Tour Stands Out

This day perfectly captures what makes a guided motorcycle tour through Spain and Morocco so addictive. It’s not just the roads or the bikes—it’s the unexpected moments, the quick fixes, the shared smiles, and the discovery of hidden gems. The Morocco Desert Raid isn’t just a trip; it’s an experience that tests your skills, your patience, and your love for travel on two wheels.

If you’re dreaming of a motorcycle adventure that mixes challenging roads with stunning landscapes and a bit of cheeky fun, this tour should be on your radar. From the snaking Ferrari road to the quiet beauty of Sierra de Cardeña y Montoro, every mile offers something special.

Final Thoughts

Day 15 reminded us why we ride. It’s about chasing the best roads, sharing laughs over a puncture repair, and finding those moments that make the whole journey unforgettable. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just getting into motorcycle travel, the thrill of discovering a road that makes you grin from ear to ear is universal.