Cycling in Alicante 2024

There are many reasons to go cycling in Alicante, Spain. Its year-round climate makes it an ideal destination for a cycling holiday. The cycling roads here are superb, and the area has two training bases: one on the coast and one inland. Your cycling trip will be a combination of pleasant roads along the Mediterranean Sea and the inland routes. While on your cycling holiday, you’ll stay in luxury hotels, enjoying the beautiful views and excellent cuisine.

Cycle routes in Alicante

The Alicante region is a popular cycling destination, with over 965 cycle routes to choose from. Most of them are uphill and hilly, making them a great choice for those looking to test their limits. Most people who visit the area cycle in the winter and spring, when roads are quieter and the weather is more pleasant. Below are a few of the city’s most popular routes. Take your pick from some of the best cycling routes in Alicante for September 2024 below:

Best cycling routes in Alicante September 2024

If you’re a complete beginner, a gentle coastal route will give you the confidence you need to start cycling again. In fact, most towns have dedicated cycle lanes, so you’ll be able to pedal alongside the beach, which boasts great views and fresh air. Once you’ve gained some confidence, try longer routes, or even a circular route, depending on your level of fitness.

While these are just a few of the routes available, the Alicante region offers countless more opportunities for exploration and cycling adventures. It’s always a good idea to check local sources or cycling clubs for the most up-to-date information on route conditions and other relevant details. And of course, don’t forget to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a map or GPS device!

Climate in Alicante

If you’re planning a holiday to Alicante, you may be wondering about the climate in the city. The city is known for its warm summers and mild winters, but whether you should go to Alicante in the summer or winter is dependent on your preferences. You can also consider the micro-climate, which is particularly distinct to neighbouring cities. While Alicante has a Mediterranean climate, neighbouring towns in the Costa Blanca have different weather conditions. For example, Calpe has twice as much rainfall as Alicante and Gran Alacant receives more windy evenings.

The average day in Alicante has about 13 hours of sunlight. In addition, the average wind speed is 12 kph (7 mph). Rain is uncommon in Alicante, although it can fall on the coast in the event of an east wind situation. Summers in Alicante are warm, with temperatures reaching above 30 degrees Celsius. The average temperatures in May are between 16 degrees and 28 degrees.

Tourist attractions when cycling in Alicante

Alicante is a region brimming with natural beauty, historic landmarks, and vibrant cultures. When cycling in Alicante, not only do you get to experience some wonderful routes but also come across a plethora of tourist attractions. Here’s a list of some top attractions that you might encounter or consider adding to your itinerary:

• Alicante Castle (Castillo de Santa Bárbara)
  • Perched atop Mount Benacantil, this castle offers panoramic views of Alicante city and the Mediterranean. The ascent can be a challenging climb but it’s well worth the effort for the views and history.
• Guadalest
  • A picturesque hilltop town known for its castle, bell tower, and reservoir. The cobbled streets, museums, and scenic views make it a popular tourist spot. The approach to Guadalest by bike is a beautiful climb surrounded by mountains.
• Coves of Canelobre (Las Cuevas de Canelobre)
  • Located in Busot, these are some of the largest and deepest caves in Spain. They offer spectacular stalactite formations. The road to Busot provides a pleasant cycling route.
• El Palmeral of Elche (El Palmeral de Elche)
  • A UNESCO World Heritage site, this vast palm grove in Elche is one of the largest in the world. The city and its surroundings offer flat to slightly undulating terrain for cyclists.
• Santa Pola Salt Flats
  • A natural park where you can spot a variety of bird species, especially flamingos. The flat terrains around Santa Pola make for a relaxed cycling day.
• Tabarca Island
  • While you can’t cycle on the island, you can cycle to the port of Santa Pola and then take a ferry to this beautiful island. It’s renowned for its marine reserve, clear waters, and historical sites.
• Jalón Valley
  • A valley surrounded by mountains, known for its vineyards, almond trees, and traditional villages. The Saturday market in Jalón is famous for antiques and local products.
• Fuentes del Algar
  • Located near Callosa d’En Sarrià, these natural waterfalls and pools are a refreshing stop during a hot cycling day. The area around is scenic and offers a combination of flat routes and climbs.
• Peñón de Ifach in Calpe
  • This massive limestone outcrop rises from the sea and is a prominent feature on the Costa Blanca. Calpe itself has a mix of beachfronts and historical sites and is popular among cyclists for its coastal routes and proximity to mountainous terrains.
• Torrevieja’s Pink Salt Lake
  • One of the few pink salt lakes in the world, it’s a unique spectacle. The flat roads around Torrevieja are great for a leisurely ride.

Remember, the beauty of cycling in Alicante is that you often stumble upon hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path spots that are not on typical tourist lists.

Tour de France stages – Mountain cycling in Alicante

Alicante is a sought-after destination for cycling enthusiasts, especially during the winter months, thanks to its temperate climate and challenging mountainous terrains. While it doesn’t boast the high-altitude extremes of the Alps or Pyrenees found in the Tour de France, Alicante provides its own unique set of challenges and picturesque sceneries. Here’s a guide to some of the best mountain ranges and climbs in Alicante for cycling:

 Sierra de Aitana

• Peak Altitude: 1,558 meters
• Cycling Route: The climb from Guadalest is especially popular, with a length of 22 km and an average gradient of 5.6%.
• Comparison to Tour de France: Comparable to some of the medium mountain stages in the Tour de France.
• Highlights: Spectacular views of the Mediterranean coast and terraced orchards.

 Sierra de Bernia

• Peak Altitude: 1,128 meters
• Cycling Route: The ascent from Xaló is the most famous, covering 11 km with an average gradient of 5.5%.
• Comparison to Tour de France: Think of the smaller climbs in the Massif Central region of France.
• Highlights: Ancient fort ruins, panoramic coastal views, and the famous “Forat de Bernia” tunnel through the mountain.

 Puig Campana

• Peak Altitude: 1,406 meters
• Cycling Route: While the peak itself isn’t fully accessible by road bike, nearby climbs such as Finestrat offer challenging ascents.
• Comparison to Tour de France: Comparable to some of the smaller cols in the French Pyrenees.
• Highlights: Dominating the skyline, Puig Campana is a famous landmark. The area boasts mythological tales and unique rock formations.

 Maigmó

• Peak Altitude: 1,296 meters
• Cycling Route: The climb from Tibi covers about 17 km and has an average gradient of 4.6%.
• Comparison to Tour de France: Think of the foothills of the Alps, not the highest peaks but still a challenge.
• Highlights: Dense forests, rocky landscapes, and views of Alicante city in the distance.

 Sierra de Crevillente

• Peak Altitude: 835 meters
• Cycling Route: While not as high as other ranges, the climbs in this region are steep and challenging.
• Comparison to Tour de France: Comparable to the shorter, punchy climbs that are often decisive in breakaways.
• Highlights: Rugged landscapes and the chance to cycle through traditional Spanish villages.

Tips for Cycling in Alicante’s Mountains:

1. Check the Weather: Alicante’s weather is generally mild, but temperatures can drop in the mountains, and conditions can change quickly.
2. Stay Hydrated: Even in cooler months, the Mediterranean sun can be intense. Carry sufficient water and wear sunscreen.
3. Know the Route: Some of the climbs are remote, so it’s essential to have a map or GPS device. Familiarize yourself with the route beforehand.
4. Enjoy the Culture: The mountain villages in Alicante offer traditional Spanish hospitality. Stop for a coffee, enjoy local delicacies, and immerse yourself in the culture.

Whether you’re training for an event or just looking for a cycling adventure, Alicante’s mountain ranges provide challenges and beauty that cycling in Alicante would please any cycling enthusiast.