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.

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 4. Ontinyent  40 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. 

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 
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.

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