by Ralf Tenbrink | 18, Oct 2025 | Costa Blanca News, Latest News
Key Takeaways
Shop Name |
Best For |
Price Range |
Bike Types |
Benidorm Cycle Hire |
Serious cyclists |
Premium |
Carbon road bikes |
Blanca Bikes |
Road & gravel riding |
Mid-Premium |
Cervelo, Moda bikes |
Baja Bikes |
City exploration |
Budget |
City & touring bikes |
CCT Bike Rental |
Mountain biking |
Mid-range |
Trek MTB, road bikes |
• Weather is perfect for cycling 300+ days per year • Delivery to hotels available from most shops • Book 3-5 days ahead during peak season • Free cancellation offered by many rental companies
Why Benidorm Has Become Spain’s Cycling Paradise
So why do thousands of cyclists flock to Benidorm every year? Its not just the beaches anymore. The town sits at the perfect spot where mountains meet the Mediterranean, giving riders both challenging climbs and flat coastal spins in the same day.
The weather here is basically perfect for cycling – you get sunshine almost every single day from October through May. January might see a bit of rain but honestly, compared to northern Europe, its nothing. Local drivers are used to cyclists too, they give you space on the roads and dont honk or get angry when you’re climbing slowly up a hill.
What really sets Benidorm apart is how the town has invested in cycling infrastructure. New bike lanes connect the main areas, hotels cater specifically to cyclists with secure storage and repair stations, and the bike routes around here range from easy 20km loops to brutal 150km mountain epics. You’ve got smooth tarmac on quiet back roads that wind through orange groves, or if you prefer, technical mountain trails that’ll test your skills.
The cycling community here is huge too. Early morning you’ll see groups of riders meeting at cafes before heading out. These aren’t just tourists – lots of pro teams come here for winter training camps because the conditions are so good. The altitude changes mean you can get proper training in, going from sea level to over 1,000 meters in a single ride.
Benidorm Cycle Hire – The Carbon Bike Specialists
Ian runs Benidorm Cycle Hire and if you’re serious about road cycling, this is where you want to go. He doesnt mess around with cheap aluminum frames – everything in his fleet is full carbon with Ultegra components or better.
The Bianchi bikes he stocks are the same models you see in the pro peloton. We’re talking bikes that retail for 3,000-4,000 euros that you can rent for a fraction of that cost. Ian keeps them maintained perfectly too – every bike gets a full service between rentals, so you wont be dealing with stretched cables or worn brake pads halfway up a climb.
What makes this shop special though is Ian himself. He’s been cycling these roads for years and knows every route, every cafe stop, every challenging climb. When you pick up your bike, he’ll spend time asking what kind of riding you want to do, then suggest routes that match your fitness level. Need a 58cm frame but he only has 56cm in stock? He’ll source one from his contacts within 24 hours.
Pricing starts around 40 euros per day for a carbon bike, but multi-day rentals bring that down significantly. He delivers to hotels in Benidorm, Altea, and Villajoyosa. One thing riders really appreciate – if you have a mechanical issue during your ride, Ian will come out and help you. That peace of mind is worth alot when you’re 50km from your hotel.
The shop operates year-round but books up fast during peak season (October-April). Pro tip: message Ian directly through WhatsApp for faster responses than email.
Blanca Bikes – Premium Road and Gravel Options
Blanca Bikes rental has been operating since 2018 and they’ve built a reputation for having the newest, best-maintained bikes in the region. Their fleet includes Cervelo and Moda bikes – these are high-end machines that most people only dream of owning.
The standout option here is the Rouvida model. Its basically two bikes in one – you can set it up as a pure road bike for fast tarmac riding, or swap the dropouts and turn it into a proper gravel bike for exploring dirt tracks. This versatility is perfect for Benidorm because you’ve got both amazing road routes and some really fun gravel paths through the mountains.
They operate from three locations – Calpe, Parcent, and Javea – but they deliver to Benidorm for a reasonable fee. The delivery service is really convenient, they bring the bike to your hotel, adjust it to fit you perfectly, and explain all the features. When you’re done, they pick it up from your hotel too.
Prices reflect the quality – expect to pay 50-70 euros per day for their top-end bikes. But here’s the thing, if you’ve never ridden a 5,000 euro bike before, this is your chance to experience what that feels like without the massive investment. The difference in how these bikes climb and handle is remarkable.
Their customer service stands out too. They provide roadside assistance if you have problems, and they include basic tools, spare tubes, and a pump with every rental. They even have GPS units available if you want to follow pre-loaded routes without getting lost.
Baja Bikes – Perfect for Casual Riders
Not everyone needs a carbon race bike, and thats where Baja Bikes comes in. They focus on people who want to explore Benidorm at a relaxed pace, maybe ride along the beach promenade or cycle to nearby towns for lunch.
Their pricing is really competitive – 8 euros gets you a bike for 4 hours, which is perfect for a morning ride along the coast. A full day costs 15 euros, three days is 35 euros, and a whole week is just 55 euros. Thats hard to beat if you just want basic transportation that’s more fun than walking.
The bikes themselves are sturdy city bikes and hybrids. Nothing fancy, but they have gears for the hills, comfortable seats, and baskets for carrying your stuff. They maintain them well enough – you won’t get anything rusty or with flat tires. These aren’t performance machines but they do the job for casual riding.
Pick-up is super easy, right in central Benidorm near the main tourist areas. No need for hotel delivery because you can walk there from most accommodations. They speak multiple languages at the shop which helps if your Spanish isn’t great. You can book online and pay when you arrive, plus they offer free cancelation if your plans change.
For families or groups of friends who want to ride together at an easy pace, Baja Bikes makes sense. You could rent four bikes for a week for less than the cost of one day on a high-end carbon bike. Different tools for different jobs, right?
CCT Bike Rental – Mountain and Road Bike Variety
CCT operates differently than other shops – they dont have a physical location in Benidorm but they deliver bikes throughout the region. This actually works in your favor because their selection is huge and they can bring exactly what you want to your hotel.
Their mountain bike selection is particularly good. They’ve got Trek Remedy 7 and Trek Roscoe 7 models, which are proper trail bikes that can handle the technical mountain biking trails around Benidorm. These bikes have modern geometry, dropper posts, and wide tires that grip well on loose surfaces.
For road cycling, they stock Canyon Roadlite models and various Ridley bikes. These are solid mid-range options – not as fancy as what Benidorm Cycle Hire offers, but definitely good enough for most riders. The Canyon bikes in particular offer great value, they’re light, responsive, and comfortable for long rides.
Here’s the catch though – they require minimum 3-day rentals and you need to book at least 3 days in advance. Delivery to Benidorm costs 45 euros on top of the rental fee. So while the daily rates might look good, factor in that delivery charge when comparing prices.
What I like about CCT is they’re very clear about their policies. Damage waiver is optional but recommended, they explain exactly what’s covered, and they don’t hit you with surprise fees. They also provide helmets, locks, and basic repair kits with every rental.
If you’re planning to do both road and mountain biking during your stay, CCT lets you swap bikes mid-rental. That flexibility is nice when you want variety in your riding.
Popular Cycling Routes from Benidorm
Benidorm sits at the center of some incredible cycling territory. You’ve got options in every direction, from flat coastal paths to serious mountain challenges that’ll leave your legs screaming.
The classic starter route heads north along the coast to Altea. It’s about 20km each way on mostly flat roads with dedicated bike lanes for much of it. Stop in Altea’s old town for coffee – the white-washed buildings and narrow streets are gorgeous. From there, stronger riders can continue to Calpe to see the famous Peñón de Ifach rock formation.
For something more challenging, the Benidorm to Guadalest scenic ride is absolutely stunning. You climb about 600 meters over 25km, winding through pine forests and past reservoirs. Guadalest village sits perched on a mountain ridge with crazy views. The descent back to Benidorm is fast and fun, but watch those hairpin turns.
The Coll de Rates is the climb every serious cyclist needs to do here. Starting from Parcent, it’s 6.5km averaging 5% gradient. Not the steepest climb ever, but the views from the top are insane – you can see the Mediterranean on clear days. Local cycling clubs use this for training because the gradient is so consistent.
Families and casual riders should check out the Via Verde del Maigmó. This old railway line has been converted to a cycling path, completely traffic-free and mostly flat. It runs for 22km through tunnels and over viaducts. Kids love it because it feels like an adventure.
Want more options? The biking routes on Costa Blanca page has detailed guides for dozens of routes. GPS files, elevation profiles, cafe stops – everything you need to plan your rides.
Booking Tips and Best Practices
Timing your booking makes a huge difference in both price and availability. October through April is peak season for cycling here – pro teams, cycling clubs, and thousands of enthusiasts all want bikes during these months. Book at least a week ahead during this period, two weeks if you need a specific size or model.
Summer (June-September) is actually quieter for bike rentals because its too hot for comfortable cycling. If you dont mind early morning rides and 30+ degree temperatures, you can get great deals. Some shops offer 30-40% discounts during summer months. Just remember to start your rides before 8am and carry lots of water.
Always ask about delivery versus pickup. Some shops charge 45-80 euros for delivery, which seems expensive, but consider this – you dont need to navigate to the shop, you dont waste vacation time on logistics, and the bike is professionally adjusted to fit you. For stays of 5+ days, many shops waive delivery fees entirely.
Insurance is worth considering. Most shops offer damage waivers for 5-10 euros per day. Without it, you’re liable for any damage including things that arent really your fault like someone backing into the bike while its locked up. Read the fine print though – some waivers dont cover stolen bikes if you didn’t use the provided lock correctly.
Here’s something people don’t think about – book your bike support services separately if you’re planning big rides. Some companies offer guided rides, vehicle support for long routes, or even just someone to meet you with spare tubes and water. Its not cheap but for once-in-a-lifetime rides, the support is valuable.
One more tip: take photos of the bike when you receive it, noting any existing scratches or damage. Most shops are honest but occasionally there are disputes about pre-existing damage. Photos solve these arguments instantly.
Comparing Prices and Getting the Best Deal
Let me break down the real costs so you know what you’re getting into. Budget bikes from places like Baja run 8-15 euros per day. Mid-range aluminum road bikes cost 25-35 euros daily. High-end carbon bikes start at 40 euros and can go up to 100 euros per day for top-tier race bikes.
But here’s where it gets interesting – multi-day discounts change everything:
Rental Duration |
Budget Bikes |
Mid-Range |
Premium Carbon |
1 day |
€15 |
€30 |
€50 |
3 days |
€35 (€11/day) |
€75 (€25/day) |
€120 (€40/day) |
1 week |
€55 (€8/day) |
€140 (€20/day) |
€245 (€35/day) |
2 weeks |
€90 (€6/day) |
€230 (€16/day) |
€420 (€30/day) |
See how the daily rate drops? If you’re staying a week or more, even premium bikes become quite afordable. Some shops offer even better deals for monthly rentals – perfect if you’re escaping winter back home.
Hidden costs can sting if you’re not careful. Pedals are often extra (5-10 euros) unless you bring your own. GPS units cost 10-15 euros per day. Carbon wheels might be a 20 euro daily upgrade. Delivery fees we already talked about. Some shops charge for bike fitting beyond basic saddle height adjustment.
Group discounts are common but rarely advertised. Booking 4+ bikes usually gets you 10-15% off. Cycling clubs booking 10+ bikes can negotiate 20-25% discounts. If you’re organizing a group trip, email shops directly rather than booking online.
The best deals often come from package deals. Some shops partner with hotels to offer bike holidays that include accommodation, bike rental, and sometimes guided rides. These packages can save 20-30% versus booking everything separately.
Early bird discounts are another way to save. Book 30+ days in advance and some shops knock 10-15% off the price. They like knowing their inventory is reserved, you get a better price – everyone wins.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to bring my own helmet and cycling shoes? Most shops provide basic helmets free but they’re usually pretty cheap ones. If you’re particular about helmets, bring your own. Cycling shoes you definitely need to bring – shops don’t rent these for hygiene reasons. Flat pedals are usually included, clipless pedals cost extra.
What happens if it rains during my rental period? Rain is rare here but it happens. Most shops won’t refund for weather, but many will let you extend your rental for free to make up for lost days. Some offer rain day vouchers for future rentals. Check the policy before booking.
Can I take rental bikes on public transport? Generally no. Buses don’t allow bikes, and while some trains do, rental companies usually prohibit this in their terms. If you need to get somewhere far with the bike, arrange delivery or ride there.
Is it safe to leave rental bikes locked outside restaurants? Yes, but use common sense. The provided locks are decent but not unbreakable. Lock to something solid, remove any GPS or accessories, and don’t leave bikes unattended for hours. Most thefts happen when people get careless.
Do shops provide route maps or GPS files? Yes, most shops have basic route maps and many provide GPS files you can load onto your phone or cycling computer. The better shops have detailed route notes including cafe stops, water fountains, and points of interest.
What about bike fit – will they adjust the bike properly? Basic shops do minimal adjustment – just saddle height really. Premium shops spend 20-30 minutes on proper bike fit including saddle position, handlebar height, and cleat alignment if you’re using clipless pedals. This makes a huge difference on longer rides.
by Ralf Tenbrink | 18, Oct 2025 | Costa Blanca News, Latest News
Key Takeaways
Feature
|
What to Look For
|
Bike Storage
|
Secure, indoor rooms with individual spaces
|
Washing Facilities
|
Dedicated bike wash areas with hoses and stands
|
Recovery Options
|
Pools, spas, sports massage services
|
Location
|
Balance between quiet roads and restaurant access
|
Meal Options
|
Early breakfast, packed lunches, carb-heavy dinners
|
Professional Support
|
On-site mechanics, tool availability, local route knowledge
|
Why Calpe Became Europe’s Cycling Capital
Ever wonder why you see so many pro cycling teams in Calpe during winter? Its not just the sunshine – though 300+ days of it certainly helps. The town sits at this perfect spot where flat coastal roads meet serious mountain climbs, giving riders everything they need within a 20-minute pedal.
The weather here is basically a cheat code for training. When northern Europe is frozen solid in January, Calpe offers 15-20°C temperatures perfect for base miles. Professional teams discovered this goldmine back in the early 2000s, and word spread fast. Now you’ll spot Team Sky, Movistar, and dozens of other squads spinning along the coastal roads from December through March.
What really sealed the deal was the terrain variety. You can warm up along the Mediterranean, tackle the famous Coll de Rates climb (6.5km at 5% average), then cool down through orange groves in the Jalon Valley. All without driving anywhere. The bike routes around Calpe offer everything from recovery spins to leg-breaking mountain stages.
But heres the thing nobody tells you – the infrastructure followed the cyclists, not the other way around. Hotels started adding bike rooms because guests kept sneaking bikes into their bedrooms. Restaurants began opening at 7am because riders wanted early starts. The whole town basically reorganized itself around two wheels.
What Makes a Hotel Truly Bike-Friendly
Let’s be real – any hotel can slap “cyclist-friendly” on their website. But theres a massive difference between letting you lean your bike against a wall and actually understanding what cyclists need.
Proper bike storage means more than just a locked room. You need:
-
Individual hanging spaces or racks (no bike Jenga!)
-
Direct access without stairs or narrow doorways
-
Security cameras and keycard access
-
Room for at least 2 bikes per guest
The washing station is where hotels show their true colors. A garden hose in the parking lot? That’s amateur hour. Real cycling hotels have covered wash areas with:
-
Multiple wash stands at working height
-
Brushes, degreasers, and chain lube
-
Compressed air for drying
-
Separate areas for muddy mountain bikes
Then there’s the workshop situation. You dont need a full bike shop, but basics matter:
-
Track pumps that actually work
-
Allen keys and basic tools
-
A proper workstand or two
-
Maybe even a mechanic on call
Recovery facilities seperate good hotels from great ones. After 100km in the saddle, you want:
-
A pool for easy spinning or floating
-
Hot tub or sauna for muscle relaxation
-
Sports massage therapists who understand cycling
-
Foam rollers and stretching areas
The food thing is huge too. Cyclists eat differently – we need massive breakfasts at 7am, energy bars for the road, and carb-loaded dinners. Hotels that get it offer flexible meal times, packed lunch options, and won’t judge when you order three portions of pasta.
SOLYMAR Gran Hotel: The Cyclist’s Paradise
The SOLYMAR Gran Hotel isn’t just cyclist-friendly – it’s basically designed by cyclists, for cyclists. This adults-only beachfront spot has become the place where serious riders stay in Calpe.
Walk into their bike storage area and you’ll understand immediately. We’re talking about a proper cycling center, not some converted basement. Each bike gets its own numbered spot with enough room to work on it. The washing station has four bays with professional bike stands, and they provide everything – brushes, degreaser, chain lube, the works. There’s even a drying area with compressed air so your bike doesn’t sit wet overnight.
Their partnership with Blanca Bikes rental is genius. You can rent top-end Cervelo bikes directly through the hotel, and they’re stored in the same secure facility as guest bikes. The rental includes:
-
Daily route briefings with local guides
-
GPS units pre-loaded with routes
-
Support vehicle option for longer rides
-
Mechanical support and spare wheels
What about when you’re not on the bike? The infinity pool overlooks the Mediterranean – perfect for easy recovery laps or just floating while your legs recover. The spa offers specific sports massages from therapists who actually understand cycling injuries and tight spots. They even have a dedicated stretching room with foam rollers and yoga mats.
Food-wise, they nail it. Breakfast starts at 7am with a proper spread – not just continental nonsense but real fuel like eggs, porridge, fresh fruit, and quality bread. They’ll pack lunch boxes with energy bars, sandwiches, and fruit. Dinner offers multiple options including pasta stations and lean proteins. The restaurant manager told me they go through 50kg of pasta during peak cycling season!
The rooms themselves are spacious enough to store bikes if you’re paranoid (though you don’t need to with their facilities). Balconies face either the sea or the Peñón de Ifach rock – both pretty spectacular views to wake up to.
Budget-Friendly Options That Don’t Compromise
Not everyone has Gran Hotel money, and thats totally fine. Calpe has solid options for cyclists watching their euros.
Hotel RH Canfali sits right in the center of town and offers way more than you’d expect for the price. Their bike room is basic but secure – think locked garage rather than cycling center. But here’s what makes them smart: they partnered with local bike shops in Calpe to offer discounts on rentals and repairs. The breakfast buffet starts at 7:30am and while it’s not huge, it covers the basics. Rooms are simple but clean, and some have small balconies where you can hang kit to dry.
Suitopia Hotel works great for families or groups. It’s actually apartment-style accommodation, so you get kitchens for cooking your own meals (pasta every night if you want!). The bike storage is in a locked underground garage – not fancy but it works. Each apartment has a washing machine, perfect for kit. The pool area is massive, good for kids or recovery swimming. Location-wise you’re slightly out of center but closer to quieter roads for riding.
For real budget options, check apartment rentals through the costa blanca biking accommodation listings. Many local apartments offer:
-
Secure garages or storage rooms
-
Washing machines for kit
-
Full kitchens for meal prep
-
Multiple bedrooms for group trips
The Edificio Larimar apartments are cyclist favorites – nothing fancy but they have huge garages where bikes are totally secure. Plus you’re walking distance to three bike shops and dozens of restaurants.
Camping options exist too, though honestly they’re better for summer. Camping Ifach has basic cabins and takes bikes seriously – locked storage, washing area, even a small workshop. But December camping in a tent? That’s hardcore even for cyclists.
Choosing Your Calpe Base: Location Matters
Where you stay in Calpe massively affects your daily riding experience. Let me break down the geography so you dont learn this the hard way.
Central Calpe (near the beaches and old town) puts you walking distance from restaurants, shops, and nightlife. Sounds perfect right? Well, kinda. The downside is you’ll spend the first 5-10km of every ride navigating traffic and stoplights. Summer is especially rough with tourist traffic. But having 20 restaurants within walking distance after a long ride? That’s pretty nice.
Northern Calpe (towards Moraira) gets you onto quieter roads faster. Hotels here like the Villa Marisol are only 2km from the N-332 coastal road heading north – perfect for rides toward Denia. Downside? You’re eating at the hotel restaurant or riding back into town for dinner.
Inland areas near the Maryvilla or Oltamar neighborhoods offer a sweet compromise. You’re close enough to walk to some restaurants but can quickly escape onto the country roads toward Benissa. The roads heading inland from here have way less traffic than the coastal routes.
Here’s what experienced riders have learned about Calpe locations:
-
Coastal hotels = beautiful views, annoying traffic
-
Old town = best restaurants, worst riding access
-
Urbanizations = quiet starts, limited dining
-
Outskirts = easy road access, need a car for evenings
The seasonal factor is huge too. July-August? Stay farther from the beach unless you enjoy playing dodge-the-tourist every morning. January-March when pro teams are here? Central is fine since there’s less tourist traffic.
For accessing bike repair services, central wins. Three shops within walking distance means mechanical problems don’t ruin your day. The edges of town might require a taxi to reach help.
Professional Team Hotels and Training Camps
Want to stay where the pros stay? Several Calpe hotels specifically cater to professional teams and serious training camps.
Hotel Bahía hosts multiple WorldTour teams each winter. They’ve got the whole operation dialed – separate dining room for teams, massage rooms, meeting spaces for briefings, and mechanics areas. The bike storage is basically a warehouse with numbered sections for each team. Regular guests can book here too, and yes, you might share breakfast with Team Ineos.
AR Diamante Beach runs their own training camps through winter months. These aren’t for beginners – we’re talking structured training with power targets, coached sessions, and video analysis. But if you want to seriously improve, their setup is incredible:
-
Professional coaches and ride leaders
-
Support vehicles on all rides
-
Daily massage included
-
Nutrition consultations
-
Power meter rentals available
The camps through bike holidays offer different approaches. Some focus on climbing, others on endurance base miles. Most run 6-7 days with two rides daily plus recovery sessions.
Group booking directly with hotels gets you better deals. Get 8-10 riders together and hotels offer:
-
Group rates (usually 15-20% off)
-
Private dining times
-
Dedicated bike storage sections
-
Meeting rooms for route planning
-
Sometimes even a support vehicle
The bike support services in Calpe have grown around team needs. You can hire:
-
Follow vehicles with spares and nutrition
-
Qualified mechanics for daily bike checks
-
Soigneurs for massage and recovery
-
Local guides who know every road
Several hotels now offer “Team Replica” experiences where amateur groups get the full pro treatment – matching kit, support vehicles, professional photos, the works. It’s not cheap but for special occasions like milestone birthdays? Pretty unforgettable.
Booking Tips and Seasonal Considerations
Timing your Calpe cycling trip wrong can mean the difference between empty roads and tourist chaos. Here’s the insider knowledge on when to book and when to ride.
December to February is prime time for serious cyclists. Weather stays between 10-18°C, perfect for base training. Roads are quiet except for other cyclists. This is when pro teams arrive, so hotels book up fast – reserve by October for best selection. Rain happens maybe 5-6 days per month, usually short showers.
March to May offers the best weather overall. Temperatures hit 15-22°C, wildflowers bloom everywhere, and tourists haven’t arrived yet. Book by January because spring races and sportives fill hotels. The Volta a Catalunya and other races mean more cyclists on roads but also better atmosphere in town.
June to August – honestly? Unless you love 35°C heat and dodging rental cars, skip it. Hotels cost more, roads are packed, and riding after 10am becomes survival mode. If you must come, book apartments with AC and plan 6am starts.
September to November is the hidden gem season. Tourists leave, temperatures drop to comfortable 18-25°C, and hotels offer deals. October is particularly perfect – warm enough for short sleeves but cool enough for long climbs. Book just a month ahead except for October half-term week.
Weather patterns you need to know:
-
Morning winds are usually calm
-
Afternoon sea breezes kick in around 2pm
-
Tramontana (north wind) days happen randomly – check forecasts
-
Rain usually means 2-3 hours then clearing
-
Coastal routes are 2-3°C warmer than inland
Booking strategy for best deals:
-
Contact hotels directly – booking sites add 15-20% commission
-
Ask about cyclist packages including breakfast and dinner
-
Longer stays (7+ nights) often get discounts
-
Mid-week arrivals cost less than weekends
-
Group bookings (4+ rooms) trigger better rates
Don’t forget to check what’s happening in town. The Calpe cycling festival, various sportives, and running races all fill hotels. The bike holidays calendar lists major events to avoid (or join!).
Beyond the Hotel: Calpe’s Cycling Infrastructure
Your hotel is just the start – Calpe’s whole ecosystem supports cyclists in ways that’ll spoil you for other destinations.
Bike shops are everywhere, but quality varies. Xavi Bike in the port area is where pros go for serious repairs. They stock high-end parts and actually know what they’re doing with electronic groupsets. Bike Shop Calpe near the old town is better for rentals and basic fixes. For emergencies, there’s always someone open, even Sundays.
The bike repair services network extends beyond shops. Several mobile mechanics will come to your hotel for repairs. Costs about €20 plus parts for the callout – worth it when you’re stuck with a cracked derailleur hanger.
Cafes and food stops along popular routes know cyclists. Cafe Mastral at the Benissa turnoff has bike racks, floor pumps, and serves massive bocadillos. The garage at Coll de Rates summit sells Coke and Kit-Kats – lifesavers on hot days. Restaurant Ca Pepe in Maryvilla opens early for cyclist breakfasts.
Group rides happen daily year-round:
-
Fast group leaves Arenal beach Tuesdays/Thursdays 9am
-
Social pace departs Sol Y Mar hotel Wednesdays 10am
-
Women’s ride Saturdays 9:30am from the port
-
Mountain bike crew Sundays 9am from Oltamar
The local cycling club (CC Calpe) is super welcoming to visitors. Join their WhatsApp group for daily ride updates. They know every road, shortcut, and coffee stop within 100km.
Essential apps and resources:
-
Strava for route finding (search “Calpe segments”)
-
Komoot for turn-by-turn navigation
-
WhatsApp groups for ride coordination
-
Local weather apps (AEMET is most accurate)
The town has even added cycling infrastructure recently. New bike lanes connect the beaches to inland roads. Water fountains specifically for bottle refills appeared along popular routes. Some traffic lights detect cyclists and change faster (though dont count on it!).
One thing that surprises visitors – drivers here actually respect cyclists. They’re used to us, they pass safely, and road rage is basically non-existent. Just don’t ride three-abreast or you’ll ruin it for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to visit Calpe for cycling? March through May and September through November offer ideal weather and fewer tourists. December to February works great for training but pack arm warmers. Avoid July-August unless you enjoy extreme heat.
Do I need to bring my own bike to Calpe? Not necessarily. High-quality rentals from shops like Blanca Bikes offer carbon road bikes, e-bikes, and gravel bikes. Renting saves transport hassle and you’ll get local knowledge about routes.
How much should I budget for a cycling hotel in Calpe? Budget hotels start around €50-70 per night. Mid-range cyclist-friendly hotels run €80-120. Luxury options like SOLYMAR cost €150-200+. Add €20-30 per day for half-board meal plans.
Are the roads safe for cycling in Calpe? Yes, drivers are cyclist-aware and generally respectful. Main roads have wide shoulders. Avoid the N-332 coastal road during summer afternoons. Interior roads toward Benissa and Jalon Valley are quietest.
What cycling distances can I expect from Calpe? Routes range from 40km easy coastal spins to 150km+ mountain epics. Popular rides include Coll de Rates (65km), Guadalest loop (85km), and the Denia coastal route (70km). Most riders average 80-100km daily.
Do hotels provide laundry service for cycling kit? Most cycling hotels offer laundry service or have washing machines available. Quick-dry kit is essential – expect to pay €5-10 per load or bring detergent for self-service machines.