Costa Blanca

Travelling cyclists are usually looking for the best in two areas: climate and terrain. Local delicacies, the cost of living (and eating), and entertainment are usually secondary considerations.

So it’s a boon for the Costa Blanca that the World Health Organisation named it “one of the most equitable in the world” in 1986, praising it for being neither too hot nor too cold.

The region has an incredible 325 sunny days per year. Cyclists typically visit between October and May, when maximum temperatures range from 16°C to 25°C. From June to September, temperatures can easily reach 30°+, making riding a bit uncomfortable.

The average number of rainy days per month ranges from one in the middle of summer to six in December, with the spring months hovering around four. 

Then there’s the terrain, which is full of surprises. There are many long, flat lanes, often scented with the zesty smell of orange groves as well as staggering climbs that will get your legs screaming and your heart rate ramping up. So it really is a place for everyone.

This difficult circular ride begins in Calpe, but it can begin in any of the towns near this part of the coast. It covers 116 kilometres and includes two of the best climbs in the region: the Port d’Ebo and the Coll de Rates.

Port d’Ebo is a particular favourite of ours due to the winding road and beautiful views of the Mediterranean. It takes you away from the more crowded coastal area and into the peace and quiet of the inland mountains. To get to the Coll de Rates, you must also pass through the lovely Pla de Petracos, which has the steepest gradients on the route, peaking at 17%.

Coll de Rates is the day’s final ascent. It is extremely popular among professional cyclists due to its consistency, making it an excellent choice for interval training. However, for cycling tourists, it is the scenery that stands out the most, especially on the descent through Tarbena and back to the coast.