Cycling in Valencia, the Land of Contrasts

Welcome to this land of contrasts; of wine and oranges; olive and almond; rivers and sea; city and hamlets; rugged mountain and green valley; orchard and pine tree; modernity and history; religion and secularity, but above all, of sunshine and tradition. Feel the pulse of the region's great city, and step back in time to the echoes of lost ages and cultures as you step outside its walls. Your pedals will propel you gently into a world that few know or ever explore, peopled by a fiercely proud and hospitable race. So, what are you waiting for? Let the adventure begin...

Nature of the route has been designed to take advantage, as far as possible, of downhill slopes along valleys that start in the interior and wind their way towards coastal plains and the sea. The route hence does not demand a high level of fitness; notwithstanding this, we have different alternatives that can either shorten or lengthen a day’s ride.
For the first two days, the route follows a former railway line, which is traffic free. For the others we have chosen small quiet roads where cars are seldom seen.

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Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Biar
You arrive in Biar, a city well-endowed in heritage sites and crowned by its fanciful 12th Century castle that has witnessed many historic episodes. You can wander around its old quarter with its maze of narrow streets and discover, at our leisure, many quaint squares and churches, etc. How about trying some local fare in one of the many bars and restaurants?

Day 2: Biar – Bocairent. 24 / 32 / 46 Km
You make use of the route provided by a former railway that goes parallel to the River Vinalopó. You’ll pass fruit-tree orchards and many small villages as we approach Banyeres de Mariola; in this town you can choose between two routes:
Route 1: continuing on flat terrain and bordering the natural enclave known as paraje natural de la Serra de Mariola that in just a few kilometres will take us to Bocairent.
Route 2: you venture into the Paraje Natural de la Sierra de Mariola, and ride to higher ground. Here you’ll marvel at the stunning views, the flora and the fauna. You then head to the imposing medieval town of Bocairent for the night’s accommodation. Not to be missed is a stroll in its old quarter.

Day 3: Bocairent – Fontanars. 21 / 34 Km
After a healthy breakfast we set out in the direction of vineyard country. You take the green route that will take us to La Valleta d’ Agres, conducive to a serene frame of mind as you pedal past groves of fruit trees at the foothills of the impressive mountain range known as Serra de Mariola. You’ll go through villages like Alfafara and Agres, marked by their own distinctive characters. That night our accommodation you’ll be in a truly privileged rural setting.

Day 4: Fontanars circular. 28 / 44 Km
You ride along a quiet lane past peaceful fields sown with cereals, and studded with olive groves and vineyards. Look out for grand buildings that blend into the landscape, as you make your way to Fontanars dels Alforins. Some of the former noblemen’s houses have been converted into wineries and in the village you can visit speciality shops that offer artesanal delicacies and craft items. If you coose the longer route, you will have the opportunity to visit the IV century b.c. Iberian town called “La Bastida” which has magnificent views. 

Day 5: Fontanars –Xàtiva. 43 Km
You’ll start the day pedalling past verdant fields and fertile groves of almond, olive and apricot trees, all making a patchwork with persimmon plantations and old vineyards. You’ll venture into Ontinyent with its historic heart. You’ll come across small villages and hamlets as we head to the shores of the Bellús dam. The area around the dam is of great scenic and ecological value. You’ll come across a number of cultural artefacts such as old watermills, azuts (water diversion dams) and elements of irrigation infrastructure. The lands around here are the most fertile in the district and not surprisingly, market gardens are plentiful. You’ll take a path bordering the gorge of the Albaida River, (in spring/summer we can take a dip in its waters to cool off). You will then head to the noble town of Xàtiva, a place steeped in history and crowned by an imposing castle.

Day 6: Xàtiva – Cullera. 55 Km
You depart from the city of Xàtiva and delved deeply into the hinterland of València with its verdant market gardens and orange groves. The area is renowned for its quality oranges which are blessed by the climatic conditions of the Mediterranean. Another advantage is that there is sunshine and pleasant weather all year round. You’ll take quiet roads and paths that weave their way through orange groves that make up a rich green tapestry along the floor of the valley. You venture into a pretty little valley to follow part of the pilgrimage route that linked different monasteries and where there is the opportunity to explore the imposing monastery of Simat de la Valldigna. Amongst rice fields, you’ll arrive in Cullera, a coastal city with beautiful sea views where you’ll be able to taste some of the rice specialties of the area. This town has plenty of beaches that you can enjoy even in winter if the sun is shine. 

Day 7: Cullera – València. 46 / 56 Km
If you choose the longer option, you’ll start the day by cycling along the banks of the River Xúquer, the waters of which irrigate the many, lush fields and groves of the whole district. You venture into the natural reserve known as Parque Natural de la Albufera, one of the most valuable ecosystems in the Mediterranean. You’ll be able to marvel at different natural environments such as lakes, marshes, sand-dunes and pinewoods that border the seafront. All of these ecosystems have their corresponding flora and fauna. It is well worth enjoying one of the typical dishes of this rather special district. You can go for a stroll by the port and see the fisherman at work before they return home to picturesque El Palmar. Upon reaching Valencia, you’ll explore the formidable old quarter with its cathedral and central market – a cathedral of a market, indeed! Not to be missed are the narrow streets and squares that offer so many kinds of cafés, bars and restaurants. The lovers of good food will be pleased. The city’s nightlife is also famous.

Day 8: València
After a good breakfast, the trip will be formally over.

Practical information:   How to fly into València or Alicante, Countries and cities with flights to Alicante: click here, Countries and cities with flights to València: click here

How to get to Biar (Starting point), If you fly to Alicante:,
By train: from Alicante Railway Station to Villena Railway Station (45mins. and 10 € per person), where we can pick you up.
You can check the timetables and prices in here.
To get from the airport to the railway station you can take a bus from the airport to Alicante Railway Station/city centre. Please click here for bus information.
To get from the airport to the bus station, you can take a bus from the airport to Alicante
Railway Station/city centre (please click here for bus information) and a taxi from the city centre to the bus station.
 If you fly to València:
By train: from València Railway Station (Estació del Nord) to Villena Railway Station, where we will pick you up. (1hr. 15mins. and 15€ per person).
You can check the timetables and prices in here.
To get from the airport to València Railway Station (Estació del Nord) /city centre you can take the underground (please, click here for more information). Get off at Xàtiva underground Station.

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Price Includes:
Accommodation for 1 tourist in double or twin room
Breakfast buffet style or substantial
Detailed tour documentation: maps of the tour
route description
points of interest
Welcome meeting
Local assistance on call from 9h to 18h
Luggage transfer service between your accommodations
GPS with the tracks

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Not Included:
flight tickets
bicycle or electric bike rental
lunches and dinners
insurance,drinks & tips
entrance fees
extra nights
any other transfers

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Additional Services:
Bike rental - 91 EUR
Electric bike - 156 EUR

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Gallery

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