The Route Catalog
Coll de Rates
Difficulty: Hard
Distance: 75 km | Elevation: 1160 m
The legendary Coll de Rates is the most iconic climb on the Costa Blanca and a must-ride for every road cyclist visiting the region. Smooth roads, breathtaking mountain views, and a steady ascent make it one of Spain’s most popular cycling challenges. Test yourself on the famous Strava segment, where World Champion Tadej Pogačar holds the KOM with an incredible 11:57. My personal best is 19:45 — now it’s your turn to see how close you can get!
Difficulty: Medium
Vall d’Ebo
Distance: 68 km | Elevation: 870 m
Start your ride through the picturesque rice fields near Pego before heading into the heart of Vall d’Ebo on one of the most scenic road cycling loops in the Marina Alta. Covering 68 km with 870 m of climbing, this route is ideal for well-prepared cyclists who enjoy quiet roads, spectacular mountain scenery, and a rewarding day in the saddle.
Difficulty: Medium
Ondara–Bernia Loop
Distance: 77 km | Elevation: 990 m
Starting in Ondara, this route climbs to the spectacular Bernia mountain, one of the most scenic roads in the Marina Alta. The highlight comes on the descent, where panoramic views open towards Calpe and the iconic Peñón de Ifach. The downhill includes several short, steep sections with tight hairpin bends that require careful bike handling. At 77 km with 990 metres of climbing, this route offers a perfect mix of mountain scenery, technical descending and rewarding climbing.
Cumbre del Sol
Distance: 57 km | Elevation: 720 m
Difficulty: Medium
Ride from Ondara through La Xara, Jávea, and Benitatxell before taking on the legendary climb to Cumbre del Sol, famous for its steep gradients and spectacular Mediterranean views. After the descent, the route continues through the charming towns of Teulada and Gata de Gorgos, returning to Ondara on quiet country roads. A perfect 56 km loop for cyclists with a moderate level of fitness.
Ondara – Cabo de San Antonio Coffee Ride
Distance: 47 km | Elevation: 418 m
Difficulty: Easy
A relaxed coastal loop perfect for a coffee ride. Starting from Ondara, the route passes through El Verger, Els Poblets, and the heart of Dénia, where you’ll ride past the marina and lively waterfront. Continue along the scenic road beneath Montgó Natural Park before climbing to the spectacular Cabo de San Antonio Lighthouse for breathtaking Mediterranean views. Descend into Jávea and return via La Xara, completing one of the most enjoyable easy rides on the Costa Blanca.
Ondara–Petata Loop
Difficulty: Hard
Distance: 90 km | Elevation: 1320 m
Starting in Ondara, this route heads through Pego before tackling the long climb towards Benialí. After reaching the high point, the reward is a beautiful descent through Vall d’Ebo, with sweeping corners, quiet mountain roads and spectacular views across the Marina Alta. At 90 km with 1,320 metres of climbing, this is an excellent endurance ride for cyclists looking for a challenging day in the mountains.
DISCOVER THE BEST CYCLING ROUTES
Conquer the Passes of Marina Alta
The Costa Blanca is a premier road cycling destination. From winding coastal roads and legendary mountain passes like Coll de Rates to quiet inland valleys, riders can expect world-class road conditions and challenging yet rewarding gradients tailored for every level of experience.
More Cycling Inspiration
Looking for even more road cycling inspiration?
Looking for more road cycling inspiration?
Discover legendary climbs, rides with WorldTour pros, bike reviews and training insights across Spain and Europe on Artem Shcherbyna’s YouTube channel.
Stay in Ondara and Explore Costa Blanca
Your ideal base for discovering the coast, mountains and villages of the Marina Alta.
Cycling Resources
Essential information for planning your road cycling adventure in Costa Blanca and Marina Alta.
Bike Shops & Rentals
- Local hubs: Dénia, Jávea, and Calpe offer world-class rental services.
- Pro setup: High-end carbon road bikes available from specialized local shops.
- Repair services: Expert mechanics located in every main town of Marina Alta.
Ride Smart
- Hydration is key in the Costa Blanca sun.
- Always carry a spare tube and pump for mountain routes.
- Respect local traffic laws on the N-332 coastal road.
- Download offline maps for the valleys.
Safety & Seasons
Best ride: Sept - May. Mild winters and cool springs provide perfect conditions. Road safety is excellent with quiet interior valleys and mountain loops.