Outline

How to Plan a Self-Guided Tour

by Ralf Tenbrink | 14, Jun 2025 | Costa Blanca News, Latest News

Key Takeaways

• Costa Blanca offers 325+ sunny days yearly, making it perfect for cycling almost year-round
• Popular routes include Coll de Rates Loop, Sierra Mariola Circle, and coastal rides from Alicante to Valencia
• Best cycling season is February to November, with summer requiring early morning starts
• Local bike shops provide rental services with delivery options to your accommodation
• GPX routes are freely available from local cycling groups and bike shops
• Pack light and use luggage transfer services between accommodations
• Prepare for challenging climbs with proper gearing (34-32 recommended for steep sections)
• Water availability can be limited in mountain areas – carry at least 2 bottles

The Magic of Costa Blanca for Cyclists

Have you ever dreamed of pedaling through sun-drenched landscapes where mountains meet the sea? Costa Blanca is that dream come true for cyclists. This Spanish coastal region has become a cycling paradise, and not just cuz of its amazing weather. With over 325 sunny days each year, cyclists from around the world flock here to escape their rainy homelands.

What makes Costa Blanca so special? It’s the incredible variety. One day you’re cruising along flat coastal roads with the Mediterranean sparkling beside you, the next you’re tackling legendary climbs that have featured in La Vuelta a España. The region has this perfect mix of challenging routes for the hardcore cyclists and gentle paths for those who just wanna enjoy the scenery without killing themselves.

I remember my first self-guided tour here back in 2018. I’d planned everything myself using online resources and was a bit nervous about getting lost in the mountains. But the routes were so well-marked, and the locals so friendly that it turned into one of my best cycling experiences ever. The freedom to stop whenever I wanted – whether to snap photos of almond blossoms or grab an impromptu coffee in a village square – that’s something you just don’t get with guided tours.

Bike routes in Costa Blanca range from gentle coastal rides to epic mountain challenges, making it perfect for cyclists of all levels. The infrastructure for cyclists has improved tons in recent years, with dedicated bike lanes in many areas and drivers who are generally respectful of cyclists on the road.

Popular Cycling Routes in Costa Blanca

Which routes should you add to your Costa Blanca cycling bucket list? Let’s break down some of the absolute must-rides that’ll give you the full experience of this cycling paradise.

The Coll de Rates Loop is probably the most famous route in the region. It’s between 60-100km depending on which variation you choose, with elevation gain ranging from 500-1,200 meters. What’s amazing about this route? The climb itself is challenging but not brutal – about 6.5km at an average gradient of 5%. But the views from the top? Absolutely breathtaking! You can see all the way to the Mediterranean on clear days. The descent is smooth and not too technical, perfect for enjoying the ride down.

Another epic route is the Sierra Mariola Circle (about 85km with 1,500m of climbing). This one takes you through gorgeous lavender fields up to Banyeres de Mariola, which is the highest village in the area. The smells as you ride through the countryside are incredible – wild herbs, pine forests, and flowering meadows. There’s this one descent that’s got a 9% gradient that’ll test your braking skills, but it’s totally worth it.

For those looking for a real challenge, the Xorret de Catí climb is a leg-burner. It’s only 8km but averages 7% with some sections hitting 15%! Pro teams use this for training, and once you’ve tackled it, you’ll understand why. The sense of achievement at the top is amazing, and the views make all the suffering worthwhile.

If you prefer coastal riding, the Calpe to Altea route offers stunning sea views with moderate climbing. This 6-night tour combines the Port de Confrides climb (14km at 4%) with beautiful coastal sections along Cabo de la Nao. The contrast between mountain and sea on this route is what makes it special.

For a longer adventure, the Alicante-Valencia Coastal Ride features daily stages of 40-60km passing through orange groves and charming fishing villages. This route is perfect for those who want to combine cycling with cultural experiences and beach time.

Biking routes on Costa Blanca offer something for everyone, from casual riders to serious climbers. The variety is what makes planning a self-guided tour here so exciting – you can mix and match routes based on your fitness and interests.

When to Go: Seasonal Considerations

When’s the best time to plan your Costa Blanca cycling adventure? This is one of those questions that doesn’t have a simple answer, cuz it really depends on what kinda experience you’re after.

The prime cycling season runs from February through November, thanks to the region’s mild Mediterranean climate. I’ve cycled here in February when much of Europe was still covered in snow, and the conditions were perfect – cool mornings around 12-15°C warming to pleasant afternoons around 18-20°C. The almond trees were in bloom, creating this magical pink and white landscape against the blue sky.

Spring (March-May) is probably my favorite time. The temperatures are ideal for cycling – warm but not hot, usually between 18-25°C. The countryside is at its most beautiful, with wildflowers carpeting the hillsides and everything looking fresh and green. Plus, there’s less tourist traffic on the roads compared to summer.

Summer (June-September) can get pretty hot, especially in July and August when temperatures regularly hit 30-35°C. If you do cycle during summer, you’ll wanna start really early – like 6 or 7 AM – to avoid the midday heat. The advantage of summer is that the days are long, so even with an early start, you’ll have plenty of daylight. The coastal routes are better in summer than the inland ones, as you’ll benefit from sea breezes.

Fall (October-November) is another excellent time. The temperatures cool down to a comfortable 18-25°C, the summer crowds have gone home, and the light takes on this beautiful golden quality that’s perfect for photography. The only downside is that you might catch some occasional rain, but it rarely lasts long.

Winter (December-January) is the off-season, but still perfectly rideable most days. Temperatures typically range from 12-18°C, which is actually ideal for more intense cycling. The mountains can get chilly though, and there’s a higher chance of rain. The big advantage is that you’ll have the roads almost entirely to yourself.

One thing to consider when planning is that accommodation prices fluctuate significantly throughout the year. You’ll find the best deals during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) when the weather is still great but the summer premium prices haven’t kicked in yet.

Essential Planning Components

How do you actually put together a self-guided cycling tour in Costa Blanca? Let’s break down the essential components you’ll need to consider to make your trip smooth and enjoyable.

First up, navigation is crucial when you’re on your own. There are several options here:

• Free GPX routes are available from local cycling groups and bike shops
• Apps like Komoot, Strava, and RideWithGPS offer pre-made routes with turn-by-turn directions
• Physical maps are still useful as backups, especially in remote mountain areas where phone signal might be spotty

I personally use a combination of a bike computer with downloaded routes and a phone backup. One time my computer battery died halfway up a mountain, and having the route on my phone saved me from a very long day of wrong turns!

For accommodation, you’ve got lots of choices:

• Cycling-friendly hotels that offer secure bike storage and early breakfasts
• Apartment rentals if you want more space and self-catering options
• Specialized cycling hotels with maintenance areas and washing facilities

Many cyclists choose to base themselves in one location and do day rides, which eliminates the need to pack up every day. Calpe, Denia, and Altea are popular bases with great access to both coastal and mountain routes.

Luggage transfers are a game-changer for multi-day tours where you’re changing accommodation. Services like those offered by local tour companies will transport your bags between hotels for around €15-20 per transfer. This means you can cycle with just the essentials and find your luggage waiting at your next hotel.

Bike rental is widely available if you don’t want to bring your own. Bike rentals in Costa Blanca offer everything from basic aluminum road bikes to high-end carbon models. Prices range from about €25-30 per day for standard bikes to €50+ for premium models, with discounts for longer rentals. Many shops will deliver the bike to your accommodation and provide helmets, spare tubes, and basic tools.

Emergency support is something to consider when self-guiding. Some rental companies offer 24/7 support with pickup services if you have a mechanical issue or injury. Alternatively, you can save local taxi numbers that can accommodate bikes. The emergency number in Spain is 112, and operators usually speak English.

Planning your daily distances realistically is super important. Costa Blanca’s terrain can be deceptive – what looks like a short 60km ride on paper might feel much longer when you factor in the climbing and heat. I usually plan for 60-80km per day with 800-1,200m of climbing, which leaves time for coffee stops and photos.

Preparation and Training

How fit do you need to be to enjoy cycling in Costa Blanca? And what should you bring? These questions are super important for making sure your self-guided tour is fun rather than a suffer-fest.

Let’s talk fitness first. The beauty of planning your own tour is that you can tailor the routes to your ability. That said, Costa Blanca is known for its climbs, so some hill training before your trip will make a huge difference to your enjoyment. Here are some fitness benchmarks to aim for:

• For coastal routes: Being comfortable riding 50km (30 miles) in one go on relatively flat terrain
• For mountain routes: Being able to sustain a steady effort uphill for 30-45 minutes
• For mixed terrain: Aim to have completed at least 2,000m of elevation gain in your weekly training

I wasn’t in great shape for my first Costa Blanca trip and had to walk parts of Coll de Rates. It was still amazing, but I would’ve enjoyed it more with better preparation!

As for gear, here’s what I recommend packing:

• Bike setup: If you’re bringing your own bike, consider a compact chainset (50/34) and a cassette with at least a 32T largest sprocket. Those 15% gradients on Xorret de Catí will thank you!
• Clothing: Layers are key. Even in summer, mountain descents can be chilly. Always pack a lightweight wind jacket and arm warmers.
• Sun protection: The UV index regularly exceeds 8 in Costa Blanca. Bring high-factor sunscreen, cycling caps, and sunglasses.
• Hydration: Two water bottles minimum. Some mountain routes have 30km stretches between villages where you can refill.
• Spares: At minimum, carry two spare tubes, tire levers, a multi-tool, and a mini-pump or CO2 inflator.

One thing many cyclists forget is preparing for the descents. Costa Blanca has some technical downhills with tight switchbacks. Practice your cornering and braking before the trip, especially if you’re not used to long descents.

Nutrition is another important aspect. The Spanish eating schedule is different from many other countries – lunch is typically served from 2-4pm, and dinner doesn’t start until 8:30pm or later. This can clash with cycling schedules, so I always carry emergency snacks. Local bakeries are great for picking up energy-rich pastries in the morning.

Lastly, don’t underestimate the importance of rest days in your itinerary. A week-long cycling trip doesn’t mean you need to ride every single day. Some of my best memories from Costa Blanca are from rest days spent exploring villages or relaxing on the beach, giving my legs time to recover for the next day’s adventure.

Accommodation and Logistics

Where should you stay during your Costa Blanca cycling adventure? And how do you handle all the practical stuff like getting there, moving around, and dealing with your luggage? Let’s sort through these logistics to make your trip planning easier.

Costa Blanca offers a wide range of cycling accommodation options. Here’s what to consider:

Cycling-specific hotels have become increasingly popular in the region. These places understand cyclists’ needs – they offer secure bike storage, early breakfasts, laundry facilities for kit, and sometimes even basic maintenance tools. Places like Calpe and Denia have several hotels that specifically cater to cyclists. They’re often slightly more expensive but worth it for the convenience.

Apartment rentals give you more space and the freedom to cook your own meals. This can be great if you have dietary requirements or want to save money. Many apartments now advertise themselves as “cyclist-friendly” and provide secure storage. I’ve stayed in some great places in Altea where I could wheel my bike right into the apartment!

Location strategy is important too. You can either:

1. Base yourself in one place and do day rides (easier logistically)
2. Move from place to place (more variety but requires more planning)

If you choose option 1, pick somewhere central to the routes you want to ride. Calpe is popular because it offers easy access to both coastal routes and famous climbs like Coll de Rates.

For option 2, you’ll need to consider luggage transfers. Several local companies offer this service for around €15-20 per transfer. They’ll pick up your bags after you leave in the morning and deliver them to your next accommodation before you arrive. This service is worth every penny – cycling is so much more enjoyable when you’re not carrying a heavy backpack!

Getting to Costa Blanca is straightforward. Alicante Airport has connections to most major European cities, and from there you can:

• Take a pre-booked shuttle to your accommodation (most will accommodate boxed bikes)
• Rent a car if you want flexibility during your stay
• Use the TRAM train service that runs along the coast (bikes are permitted outside peak hours)

If you’re renting bikes, many bike shops offer delivery to your accommodation. This service typically costs €20-30 but saves you the hassle of transporting your own bike. Rentals usually include helmets, basic repair kits, and locks. Some even provide GPX routes of local rides.

For day-to-day logistics, it’s worth noting that:

• Most villages have at least one café or restaurant suitable for mid-ride refueling
• Supermarkets typically close on Sundays and for siesta (roughly 2-5pm)
• Water fountains are common in village squares and are safe to drink from
• ATMs are widely available in towns but can be scarce in rural areas

One final tip: build some flexibility into your itinerary. Weather, fatigue, or simply discovering a beautiful spot you want to explore more can all change your plans. Having a rest day or two that can be moved around gives you the freedom to adapt your tour as you go.

Local Highlights and Cultural Experiences

What makes cycling in Costa Blanca special isn’t just the roads and climbs – it’s everything you’ll experience along the way. The region is packed with cultural, natural, and culinary highlights that add richness to your cycling adventure.

As you pedal through the countryside, you’ll notice the landscape changes dramatically. Near the coast, you’ll find lush citrus groves and palm trees, while inland areas feature almond and olive orchards terraced into the hillsides. The contrast is stunning and makes for varied riding experiences. In February, the almond blossoms create a spectacular pink and white carpet across the valleys – I once spent an entire ride stopping every few kilometers to take photos!

The region’s villages each have their own character and charm. Guadalest is perched dramatically on a pinnacle of rock with its castle seemingly growing out of the stone itself. It’s a bit of a tourist hotspot but worth the climb to get there. Banyeres de Mariola, the highest village in the area, features a well-preserved Moorish castle and is surrounded by aromatic herb fields that perfume the air as you ride through.

Coastal towns offer a different vibe. Altea’s whitewashed old town with its blue-domed church is perfect for an evening stroll after a day in the saddle. Denia combines a working fishing port with beautiful beaches and a historic castle. These towns make great rest-day destinations or overnight stops on multi-day tours.

The local cuisine deserves special mention. Costa Blanca is a food lover’s paradise with dishes that are perfect for hungry cyclists:

• Rice dishes beyond paella – try “arroz a banda” (rice cooked in fish stock) in coastal towns
• Fresh seafood along the Cabo de la Nao routes – the “menu del día” (daily menu) at seaside restaurants often features the morning’s catch
• Mountain villages specialize in hearty stews and grilled meats – perfect refueling after a big climb
• Local pastries like “coca” (a flatbread topped with vegetables or sweet toppings) make excellent riding snacks

Coffee culture is strong here too. The Spanish “café con leche” is the cyclist’s friend, and you’ll find good coffee in even the smallest villages. Most cafés are used to cyclists stopping by and don’t mind if you’re in full kit.

Local festivals add another dimension to your trip if you time it right. Each town has its annual “fiestas” with parades, music, and special events. The Moors and Christians festivals, celebrating the region’s history, feature spectacular costumes and mock battles. If your tour coincides with one, it’s worth adjusting your route to experience it.

Wine regions like Jalón Valley offer another interesting detour. Many vineyards welcome visitors for tastings, though you might want to save serious sampling for after your ride! The local Moscatel sweet wine is famous, and the dry whites are perfect for summer evenings.

Challenges and Solutions

What challenges might you face when planning and riding a self-guided tour in Costa Blanca? And more importantly, how can you overcome them? Let’s be honest about the potential difficulties and how to handle them.

Navigation challenges are probably the most common issue for self-guided cyclists. While major climbs like Coll de Rates are well-signed, rural routes can be confusing with limited signage. Here’s how to avoid getting lost:

• Download offline maps before your trip – don’t rely on having cell service
• Use a dedicated bike computer with turn-by-turn directions
• Carry a backup power bank for your devices
• Study your route each morning to memorize key junctions

I once took a wrong turn near Tàrbena and added 15km and an extra climb to my day! Now I always double-check junctions that look confusing on the map.

Steep descents can be intimidating, especially on unfamiliar roads. The 9% grades on Sierra Mariola routes and the switchbacks coming down from Confrides require good technique. To handle these safely:

• Check your brakes every morning
• Descend in the drops for better control
• Brake before corners, not during them
• Consider disc brakes when renting if you’re not confident on descents

Water access is another consideration, especially in summer and on mountain routes. Some mountain sections have 30km between villages where you can refill. My solutions:

• Carry at least two large bottles (750ml each)
• Mark potential refill points on your route
• Consider a hydration backpack for very hot days or long mountain routes
• Fill up at every opportunity, even if your bottles aren’t empty

Language barriers can be challenging in rural areas where English isn’t widely spoken. While you can certainly get by with gestures and smiles, learning a few basic Spanish phrases goes a long way:

• “Agua, por favor” (Water, please)
• “¿Dónde está el baño?” (Where is the bathroom?)
• “Necesito ayuda con mi bicicleta” (I need help with my bike)
• “¿Está abierto?” (Is it open?)

Mechanical issues happen to everyone eventually. To minimize their impact:

• Know how to fix a flat tire and adjust basic components
• Carry essential tools and spare parts
• Save the contact details for bike repair services in the area
• Consider renting from shops that offer roadside assistance

Traffic varies throughout the region. While Costa Blanca is generally cycling-friendly, some coastal roads can get busy, especially in summer. Solutions include:

• Plan to ride popular routes on weekdays rather than weekends
• Start early to avoid tourist traffic
• Use bike paths where available, particularly along coastal sections
• Consider inland routes during peak tourist season

Weather extremes, while rare, do occur. Summer can bring intense heat, while winter occasionally sees heavy rain. To prepare:

• Check weather forecasts daily and adjust routes if necessary
• In summer, start rides early and plan to finish before the afternoon heat
• Carry appropriate clothing for sudden weather changes
• Know where you could shelter or cut a ride short if needed

Remember that flexibility is your friend when self-guiding. Having the freedom to adapt your plans is one of the biggest advantages over organized tours.

Tour Operators and Support Services

Can’t handle all the planning yourself? Or want some backup while maintaining independence? Let’s look at how tour operators and support services can help with your self-guided Costa Blanca adventure.

Self-guided doesn’t have to mean completely on your own. Many companies offer “supported self-guided” tours that provide the freedom of riding independently with the safety net of professional support. These services typically include:

• Route planning with detailed GPX files and route cards
• Accommodation booking in cyclist-friendly hotels
• Luggage transfers between accommodations
• Emergency support hotline
• Bike rental options
• Airport transfers

Local operators like Sierra Sports & Tours specialize in Costa Blanca and offer pre-planned packages with vetted hotels and carefully designed routes. Their 6-night Calpe-based tour includes classic climbs like Port de Confrides and coastal routes along Cabo de la Nao, with daily luggage transfers and 24/7 support.

The advantage of these services is that they handle all the logistical headaches while still letting you ride at your own pace without a guide hovering nearby. They’re particularly valuable if you’re short on planning time or visiting the region for the first time.

For those who want more independence but still need some support, there are à la carte services available:

Bike rental shops do much more than just rent equipment. Many local bike shops offer:

• Delivery and collection of bikes to your accommodation
• Route advice and GPX files of local favorites
• Basic maintenance kits and spare parts
• Emergency pickup services (for an additional fee)

I’ve used Blanca Bikes for rentals, and they were fantastic – they even included a pre-loaded Garmin with local routes!

Luggage transfer services operate independently of full tour packages. Companies like Caffee Cadanz will transport your bags between hotels for around €15-20 per transfer, regardless of where you booked your accommodation.

Local cycling guides can be hired for specific days if you want expert guidance on particular routes. This hybrid approach gives you the benefit of local knowledge for challenging sections while maintaining independence for the rest of your trip. A day with a guide typically costs €150-200 but can be worth it for insider knowledge of hidden routes and the best local stops.

Support vehicles can be arranged for specific days when you might want backup – perhaps for a particularly challenging route or when riding with mixed-ability groups. These services typically cost €200-300 per day but allow everyone to ride at their own pace with the security of knowing they can get a lift if needed.

Digital support has also improved dramatically. Apps like Komoot and Strava not only provide navigation but can connect you with local riders who often share their favorite routes and stops. Many bike rental shops have their own apps with emergency contact features and local information.

The beauty of Costa Blanca’s developed cycling infrastructure is that you can mix and match these services to create your ideal level of support. You might handle your own route planning but use a luggage transfer service, or book accommodation yourself but hire a local guide for the most challenging day.

Frequently Asked Questions

How difficult is cycling in Costa Blanca for intermediate riders?

Costa Blanca offers routes for all levels, but intermediate riders will find plenty to enjoy. Coastal routes are generally moderate with rolling terrain, while mountain routes can be challenging but rewarding. Most famous climbs like Coll de Rates are challenging but not extreme (average 5-6% gradient). If you’re comfortable riding 50-60km with 500-800m of climbing at home, you’ll find suitable routes here.

What’s the best base location for a cycling holiday in Costa Blanca?

Calpe is the most popular base due to its central location, offering access to both coastal and mountain routes. It has plenty of cyclist-friendly accommodation and good amenities. Denia and Altea are excellent alternatives, each with their own charm and access to different route networks. For quieter options, consider inland towns like Jalón, though these require more climbing to get anywhere.

Do I need to speak Spanish to cycle in Costa Blanca?

No, you don’t need to be fluent in Spanish. In tourist areas and larger towns, English is widely spoken. However, learning a few basic phrases is helpful, especially in rural villages where English is less common. Most restaurants have English menus, and many accommodation providers cater specifically to international cyclists.

What bike type is best for Costa Blanca roads?

A road bike is ideal for most Costa Blanca routes. The road surfaces are generally good, and a lightweight bike helps on the climbs. If you plan to explore gravel paths or mountain trails, a gravel bike or hardtail mountain bike would be better. For rental, a compact chainset (50/34) and at least a 32T cassette is recommended for the steeper climbs.

How much should I budget for a week-long self-guided cycling trip?

For a week-long trip, budget approximately:

• Accommodation: €50-100 per night
• Bike rental: €150-300 for the week
• Food: €30-50 per day
• Luggage transfers: €15-20 per transfer
• Flights: Varies by season and origin

A mid-range trip typically costs €1,000-1,500 per person excluding flights. Budget options (apartments, self-catering) can reduce this to around €700-900, while luxury options can exceed €2,000.

What emergency services are available for cyclists?

Spain’s emergency number is 112, and operators typically speak English. For non-emergency medical care, pharmacies (marked with green crosses) can help with minor issues. Many bike rental companies offer roadside assistance services for mechanical problems. It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers cycling activities and emergency medical evacuation.

When is the rainy season in Costa Blanca?

The rainiest months are October through December, though “rainy season” is relative in this dry region. Even during these months, prolonged rain is uncommon, with most rainfall coming in short, intense bursts. Spring (March-May) occasionally sees some rainfall but generally offers excellent cycling conditions. Summer (June-September) is very dry, with rain being rare.

Can I combine cycling with other activities in Costa Blanca?

Absolutely! Costa Blanca is perfect for multi-activity holidays. The beaches offer swimming and water sports, while the mountains have hiking trails. Rest days can be spent exploring historic towns, visiting wineries, or enjoying the local cuisine. Many cyclists plan 4-5 days of riding within a week-long trip, leaving time for other experiences.