Cycling Routes Along the Costa Blanca Near Alicante

1. Alicante Coastal Route (Ruta de la Costa)

One of the most popular cycling routes in the region is the Alicante Coastal Route, which takes cyclists along the beautiful Mediterranean coastline. This easy-to-moderate route is perfect for those who want to enjoy a scenic ride with sea views and gentle terrain. The route starts in Alicante and heads north along the coast, passing through charming seaside towns like El Campello and Villajoyosa.

Highlights:

• Enjoy the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea as you cycle along the coast.
• Stop at El Campello for a refreshing dip in the sea or a meal at one of the beachfront restaurants.
• Explore the colorful houses and historic streets of Villajoyosa, a picturesque fishing village.

2. Alicante to Elche Route

For those looking for a longer ride, the Alicante to Elche route is a great option. This moderate route takes cyclists from the city of Alicante to the nearby town of Elche, known for its palm groves and historical landmarks. The route passes through scenic countryside, offering a peaceful ride away from the bustling city.

Highlights:

• Visit El Palmeral de Elche, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with over 200,000 palm trees.
• Explore the charming town of Elche, known for its Basilica of Santa Maria and the famous Misteri d’Elx festival.
• Enjoy a mix of urban and rural scenery, with a mostly flat terrain ideal for a comfortable ride.

3. Climb to Xorret de Catí

For experienced cyclists looking for a challenge, the Xorret de Catí climb is one of the most famous routes in the Costa Blanca region. This demanding ride takes you from Alicante up to the Xorret de Catí mountain, which has been featured in several stages of the Vuelta a España cycling race. The climb is steep and challenging, with gradients reaching up to 18%, but the stunning views from the top are well worth the effort.

Highlights:

• Tackle one of the most challenging climbs in the Costa Blanca region, perfect for experienced cyclists.
• Enjoy the breathtaking views from the summit, where you can see the surrounding mountains and valleys.
• Test your endurance on the same route used by professional cyclists in the Vuelta a España.

4. Alicante to Altea Route

For a scenic coastal ride with a mix of flat and hilly terrain, the Alicante to Altea route is a fantastic choice. This moderate route takes cyclists along the Costa Blanca, passing through several seaside towns, including Benidorm and Calpe, before reaching the picturesque town of Altea. The ride offers a mix of coastal and mountain views, with plenty of opportunities to stop and explore along the way.

Highlights:

• Pass through the lively resort town of Benidorm, known for its beaches and skyscrapers.
• Stop at Calpe to visit the famous Peñón de Ifach, a large limestone rock that dominates the coastline.
• Explore the charming old town of Altea, known for its whitewashed houses and beautiful church with a blue-domed roof.

5. Sierra de Aitana Loop

For those who want to explore the mountains around Alicante, the Sierra de Aitana Loop is a challenging but rewarding route. This ride takes cyclists through the Sierra de Aitana, a mountain range located inland from the coast. The route offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and passes through several traditional Spanish villages. The climb is long and steep in places, but the sense of achievement and the views from the top make it worthwhile.

Highlights:

• Cycle through the stunning Sierra de Aitana mountains, one of the highest points in the region.
• Visit traditional villages like Sella and Guadalest, known for their historic charm and beautiful scenery.
• Enjoy the peaceful mountain roads, away from the crowds of the coastal areas.

Tips for Cycling in Alicante:

• Stay Hydrated: The Costa Blanca can get very hot, especially during the summer months, so make sure to bring plenty of water and take breaks in the shade when needed.
• Plan Your Route: There are many cycling routes to choose from, so plan your route based on your fitness level and the type of scenery you want to experience.
• Respect Traffic Rules: While many of the cycling routes are on quiet roads, it’s important to respect traffic rules and be aware of vehicles, especially in more populated areas.
• Rent a Bike: If you’re visiting and don’t have your own bike, there are plenty of bike rental shops in Alicante that offer road bikes, mountain bikes, and e-bikes.

Conclusion

Alicante and the Costa Blanca offer some of the most scenic and enjoyable cycling routes in Spain. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely coastal ride or a challenging mountain climb, the region has something for every level of cyclist. With stunning views, historic towns, and a perfect climate for outdoor activities, cycling in Alicante is an unforgettable experience for any bike enthusiast.