Alicante is much more than sun and beaches. This gem of the Costa Blanca has become an ideal destination for cyclists of all kinds: from those looking for a relaxed ride to the more adventurous. With its Mediterranean climate, stunning landscapes, and routes designed for all levels, Alicante is the perfect place to explore on two wheels. Whether you are a resident or a visitor, the bicycle is undoubtedly one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the natural and cultural beauty of this region.
- The Ideal Climate for Cycling
Alicante’s climate, with over 300 sunny days a year, makes it a perfect destination for cycling at any time of year. The mild temperatures and sea breeze create a pleasant environment for enjoying a bike ride, whether you prefer mountain routes or gentler coastal paths.
- Routes for All Levels
From calm, scenic coastal routes to challenging mountain paths, Alicante has options for all cyclists. Here are a few suggestions:
- La Vía Verde del Serpis: A 20 km route that follows old railway tracks and offers stunning views of the region’s nature and mountain landscapes.
- The Costa Blanca: A coastal route connecting towns like Santa Pola, Elche, and Alicante. Along this path, you can enjoy the Mediterranean Sea, golden sandy beaches, and picturesque fishing harbors.
- Sierra de Aitana: If you’re looking for a challenge, this is one of the most well-known routes among mountain bikers. With steep slopes and rocky trails, it’s perfect for those seeking adrenaline.
- Road Cycling: A Mecca for Professionals
Alicante is not only a destination for amateur cyclists but also a place where professionals train intensively. The province is known as a reference point for elite cycling teams, both national and international. During the winter and preseason months, many UCI ProTour teams, such as Team Jumbo-Visma, Movistar Team, and Bahrain Victorious, choose Alicante as their base camp for training. Calpe, Altea, and La Nucía are popular destinations year after year to prepare for the season.
The reason is clear: the Costa Blanca’s road routes offer the perfect balance between challenging terrain and beautiful landscapes. The roads are of exceptional quality, and the Mediterranean climate allows for consistent training, even during the winter. Some of the most iconic routes for professional cyclists include:
- Coll de Rates: One of the most famous climbs among road cyclists. With a length of 12 km and an average gradient of 5%, it’s a challenge that tests cyclists’ endurance while offering stunning views of the coast and mountains.
- Puig Campana Ascent: With 6.6 km of ascent and a gradient of up to 11%, this mountain is another favorite of professional cyclists. The combination of the climb’s difficulty and panoramic views makes this route one of the most coveted in training calendars.
- The Coast and Inland Ports: Routes that combine mountain passes like Coll de la Banyera or Puerto de la Carrasqueta with fast descents and secondary roads ideal for developing high speeds.
For all these reasons, if you’re an experienced cyclist looking for a challenge, Alicante is the perfect place to push your limits and train like a pro.
- Alicante’s Gastronomy: The Perfect Break
After a day on the road or exploring the mountains, what better way to unwind than by enjoying the excellent local cuisine? Alicante is famous for its arroz a banda (rice with seafood), nougat, and horchata (a traditional drink), as well as its delicious fresh fish and seafood. Many cycling routes in the region pass by restaurants and bars where you can stop to taste these local delicacies.
- A Growing Cycling Tourism Destination
In recent years, Alicante has been recognized as one of the best cycling tourism destinations in Europe. Thanks to its infrastructure, the quality of its routes, and its continuous effort to improve accessibility and safety for cyclists, the province attracts more and more tourists looking for a unique cycling destination.
Conclusion
Whether you prefer coastal routes or challenging mountain trails, Alicante offers spectacular paths for all tastes, including those that have become classics for road cyclists. Renting a bike is the easiest and most fun way to discover this stunning region of Spain. From peaceful landscapes to more challenging routes, Alicante has everything a cyclist could wish for. Don’t miss the chance to experience it on two wheels and ride the same paths as the champions!