Discover the Costa Blanca: Hiking and Cycling in a Breathtaking Landscape

If you enjoy hiking and cycling, the Costa Blanca offers many beautiful routes to explore. We have highlighted some wonderful routes where you can hike and cycle along the Costa Blanca. The Costa Blanca, located on the eastern coast of Spain, is not only known for its stunning beaches and sunny climate but also offers a wide range of opportunities for hikers and cyclists. Whether you are an experienced adventurer or simply want to enjoy nature, the Costa Blanca has something for everyone.

Hiking on the Costa Blanca

The Costa Blanca boasts several hiking trails that lead through breathtaking landscapes. From green valleys to steep mountains, there is something for everyone. Some of the most popular hiking areas include:

• Sierra de Bernia: This mountain range offers various trails with spectacular views of the Mediterranean. The routes range from easy to challenging, making them ideal for both beginners and experienced hikers.
• Parc Natural de la Font Roja: This nature park near Alcoy is perfect for nature lovers. The trails are well-maintained and lead you through lush forests and beautiful waterfalls.
• Camí de la Serrella: An adventurous route that takes you through the inland areas of the Costa Blanca, offering impressive views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
• Embalse de la Pedrera: This large reservoir near the town of Torremendo was built in 1980 and has a maximum capacity of 246 cubic hectometers (246 billion liters). The dam is 61 meters high and 716 meters long, with a total surface area of over 1,270 hectares. The natural area around the reservoir is ideal for hiking and cycling.
• El Palmeral de Elche: Near Alicante lies Elche, a city with a very special attraction: El Palmeral. This garden, with approximately 300,000 palm trees, is known among Spaniards as Jardín El Huerto del Cura and is a feast for the eyes thanks to its artistic design. This gem did not go unnoticed: the palm garden of Elche has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2000. The Ruta del Palmeral, a 2.5-kilometer route that runs through some of the city's most beautiful groves, is one of the best options to enjoy the palm trees of Elche.
• Orihuela Costa Hiking Route: There is a hiking route along the most beautiful coasts of the southern Costa Blanca that starts in Dehesa de Campoamor. From Dehesa de Campoamor, you can walk directly to Punta Prima. It's a long walk, but there are several places where you can rest on the beach or have something to eat and drink. You can also break the walk into smaller stages. During the walk from Campoamor to Punta Prima, you will pass through the following places: Dehesa de Campoamor, Cabo Roig, La Zenia, Playa Flamenca, Punta Prima. This walk along the Orihuela Costa coastal route offers amazing views. You walk along wide beaches, steep cliffs, and with the sound of the sea in the background.
• Peñón de Ifach: Take this beautiful hiking route to the top of the Peñón de Ifach and enjoy a stunning bird's-eye view over Calpe. The Valencia region is filled with treasures, and the Peñón de Ifach is one of them. This impressive rock is a symbol of the Costa Blanca, and you will see its image printed on postcards and posted online. Those who wish to climb to the top of this monument can follow an incredible hiking route, which rewards you with stunning views over Calpe. The Ruta de la Cima del Peñón de Ifach is a 4.6 km long hiking trail. The route takes you through an impressive tunnel carved into the enormous rock. The most challenging part of the hike is the final stretch, but don't worry, as there are ropes attached to the rock wall to help with the climb. Before you start your hike, make sure to wear appropriate footwear to avoid difficulties along the way. Don't forget to reserve your spot, as the number of people allowed to climb per day is limited. Plants and animals abound along the route. If you want to know more about what you can see, it's a good idea to visit the Peñón de Ifach information center before you start. In and around the Peñón area, you can also enjoy other outdoor activities, such as snorkeling and rock climbing.

Cycling on the Costa Blanca

Cycling on the Costa Blanca is a popular activity, thanks to its mild climate and varied landscape. From scenic coastal roads to challenging mountain routes, the possibilities are endless.

• Coastal Route from Alicante to Denia: This beautiful bike ride along the coastline offers views of the sea and picturesque villages. The route is suitable for both recreational and experienced cyclists.
• The Vuelta al Puig Campana: A challenging mountain biking route that takes you around the iconic Puig Campana mountain. This route is ideal for adventurous cyclists looking for a serious challenge.
• Cycling through the Jalon Valley: Enjoy the beautiful nature and characteristic vineyards in this valley. The flat roads make it an excellent choice for families and beginners.
• The Vuelta a la Marina Alta: This route takes you through the beautiful mountainous area of the Marina Alta, with villages like Xaló, Parcent, and Alcalalí. The route is challenging with some steep climbs, including the famous Coll de Rates, a favorite among cyclists. The views of the surrounding mountains and valleys are breathtaking.
• Coastal Route from Calpe to Altea: One of the most beautiful coastal routes on the Costa Blanca, this route offers picturesque views of the Mediterranean. Cycle along the coast between Calpe and Altea, with opportunities to stop at charming fishing villages and beaches. The route is relatively flat and ideal for a relaxed ride.
• Guadalest Circuit: This route starts and ends in Altea and takes you to the picturesque village of Guadalest, known for its castle and spectacular views. The road to Guadalest includes some steep sections, but the reward is a visit to one of the most beautiful villages in Spain.
• The Sierra de Aitana: For the ultimate challenge, you can explore the Sierra de Aitana, the highest mountain range in the province of Alicante. The climb to the top of Aitana is long and tough, but the views are unparalleled. This route is ideal for experienced cyclists who enjoy climbing.
• Montgó Circuit: This is a beautiful route around the Montgó mountain, taking you through Denia, Jávea, and the surrounding nature. The route offers a mix of coastal and mountain scenery, making it ideal for cyclists looking for a moderate challenge.

Tips for Hiking and Cycling on the Costa Blanca

• Consider the weather: The Costa Blanca has a Mediterranean climate, so make sure to bring plenty of water and sun protection, especially during the summer months.
• Wear appropriate clothing: Make sure to wear comfortable hiking shoes or cycling gear and bring extra layers, especially if you're heading into the mountains.
• Explore the local cuisine: After a day of hiking or cycling, there's nothing better than enjoying the local cuisine at one of the many restaurants on the Costa Blanca.

Conclusion

Hiking and cycling on the Costa Blanca offer a unique way to discover the beauty of this region. With its diverse landscapes, excellent infrastructure, and pleasant climate, it is an ideal destination for nature lovers and active travelers. Plan your adventure today and experience the magic of the Costa Blanca for yourself! If you have any tips about a route that should definitely be included on this page, let us know!