Bike routes in Calpe, let's pedal!

Who said Calpe is only sunshine and beaches? Calpe is an ideal place for mountain sports enthusiasts and, more specifically, for cycling. A destination where you can discover thousands of corners filled with nature and where the sea is the main feature of every view, no matter where you go. Its climate, its surroundings, its routes... everything is prepared to let your passion for cycling blossom and enjoy Calpe.

In fact, Calpe has very popular routes among competitive cyclists, going beyond being a destination for amateur cyclists. On more than one occasion, the Peñón de Ifach has hosted events and professional races such as La Vuelta a España. Want to know more about why Calpe has so many bike routes? Keep reading and find out!

Cycling in Calpe

Some years ago, the Calpe City Council prepared nearly 40 kilometers of trails for bike lovers. This brought a breath of fresh air to all cycling in the area, and more and more cyclists are coming to the Costa Blanca to enjoy the sport they love most. 

It is true that these trails are not for everyone; they require a certain skill and experience in combining biking with mountain riding. You may encounter repairs on the most eroded parts of the routes, which will make them safer for cyclists. In fact, you may also find clean trails free of bushes and clear to minimize falls as much as possible.

These enabled trails are located in the Sierra de Oltá and distributed across these 8 routes:

• Oltá Path.
• Cocó to Oltá Path.
• Cocó, Casanova, and Cometa Paths.
• Cocó Path to Faixuc and Cepellar.
• Cocó Path passing through Cosentari and Terrasala to the Cometa Park.
• Castellet del Mascarat Path.
• San Juan Hermitage Path to La Rosina.
• San Juan Hermitage Path to La Creu.

As you can see, Calpe’s environment combines different elements that make it an idyllic place for practicing cycling. It alternates coastal areas with mountain zones, quickly shifting from urban environments to natural settings, connecting roads with routes and, most importantly for increasing its appeal in this sport, jumping between high mountain areas and plains.

Bike routes in Calpe

Here are some of the most popular routes among regular cyclists in the area:

Sierra de Bernia

In this nearby Sierra to Calpe, there is a circular route that ends back at the starting point, with sections on paved roads, about 700 meters of elevation change, and reaches 25 kilometers. It’s not an easy route and has areas demanding a certain level of skill, but the views and the satisfaction you get... are beyond words!

The route starts in one of the most representative towns of the area, Xaló. The corners of Marina Alta gradually open up until reaching Casas de Bernia. Here you come across the beginning of a common hiking trail, the Forat de Bernia. 

To get there, you'll need to take the national road N-332 towards Benissa, and to reach Xaló, the CV-750.

Cumbre del Sol and Coll de Rates

Another circular route that reconnects with its own starting point. It covers 100 kilometers and about 600 meters of maximum altitude.

The route begins from Calpe itself, as you will use its national road along the entire coast. A perfect opportunity to take it slow, stop pedaling, and enjoy the incredible views offered by the surroundings. 

After reaching the La Fustera pass, which is relatively easy, you will find a series of inner roads leading to the famous neighborhoods of La Cumbre del Sol. This is the most challenging part of the route, as it’s short but demanding on the climb.

Next, you will reach Coll de Rates via secondary roads. After a long ascent with little elevation change, it will be time to dismount and enjoy the beauty of Calpe. Undoubtedly, the best views to relax and enjoy a well-deserved rest.

You now know the most popular routes among experienced cyclists! But if you prefer a quieter route, Calpe is also your place. It has bike lanes throughout the town. In fact, thanks to projects like BiciCalp, cycling mobility and enjoying biking are a sure bet. Everything is prepared for you to discover the most characteristic corners of this Mediterranean area. 

Find out everything you need to know for a vacation in Calpe. All that’s left is to put on your helmet, hop on your bike, and… pedal away!