Cycling in the Valencia region: Between sea and mountains

Program

Day 1

Arrival at Biar – Villena
From Valencia or Alicante airport, you can reach the starting point of your stay by car, bus or cab. After an hour’s drive, you arrive in the village of Biar – Villena.
A town rich in heritage sites, dominated by its picturesque 12th-century castle, which has witnessed many historic episodes. You can stroll through the old quarter, with its maze of narrow streets, and enjoy local specialities in one of the many bars and restaurants.

Day 2

Biar-Villena – Bocairent (26 km)
You set off on an adventure through varied landscapes: pine forests mingle with vineyards and cellars, forming a rustic mix of greens, enhanced by fruit trees and vegetable gardens. You’ll arrive in Villena, home to one of the region’s best-preserved castles. Next, you’ll take the green route along the Vinalopó river, discovering orchards and small hamlets. Later, you’ll reach the medieval town of Bocairent, with its charming old quarter, squares and ancient fountains. You’ll be spoilt for choice for a meal, with plenty of specialities to sample.

Day 3

Bocairent – Alcoi (28 km)
Venture into the Paraje Natural de la Sierra de Mariola and climb to higher ground. There, you’ll marvel at the breathtaking views, flora and fauna. At the end of the day, you’ll reach the lively town of Alcoi, where you can savor its own gastronomic interpretations and discover a range of wines.

Day 4

Alcoi – Villalonga (40 km)
Today’s ride is one of the most spectacular on the circuit. The contrasts between inland mountain valleys are far more marked than those of coastal valleys. Pedaling on the heights overlooking Lake Beniarrés, you’ll enjoy impressive views of iconic mountains like Benicadell and Montcabrer. Following a green trail above the Serpis River, you’ll discover small villages amid lush orange groves, and the sea breezes will quickly indicate that the sea isn’t far away!

You have two options to choose from:
Route 1: follow the old railroad line into the dramatic gorge. This option is fairly flat, but the ground is gravel.
Route 2: climb the mountain for superb sea views. The surface is excellent, but you need to be in good shape as the course is hilly. From this path, you’ll have a much better view of the Cirque de Safor.

Day 5

Villalonga – Cullera (46/62 km)
You start the day passing orange groves and soon discover small remnants of marshland called marjals, a popular place for bird nesting. You venture into a pretty valley to follow part of the pilgrimage route linking various monasteries, with the opportunity to explore the imposing monastery of Simat de la Valldigna.
In the midst of the rice fields, you’ll arrive in Cullera, a coastal town with superb sea views, where you can sample the region’s rice-growing specialities. This town has plenty of beaches to enjoy, even in winter when the sun is shining.

Day 6

Cullera – València (46/56 km)
If you choose the long option, you’ll start out along the banks of the Xúquer river, which irrigates the region’s many fields and orchards. Venture into the Parque Natural de la Albufera, one of the Mediterranean’s most precious ecosystems, where you can admire lakes, marshes, sand dunes and pine forests, each with its own flora and fauna.
Don’t forget to try a dish typical of this region. Stroll along the harbor to see the fishermen before they head back to El Palmar.

In Valencia, explore the old quarter with its cathedral and central market, a veritable temple of the market! Don’t miss the narrow streets and squares full of cafés, bars and restaurants to delight gourmets. The city’s nightlife is also famous.

Day 7

End of stay after breakfast in Valencia.