Mountain Biking Trails in Costa Blanca: Puig Campana Mountain Trail

Key Takeaways

• Puig Campana is Costa Blanca’s most iconic mountain biking trail at 1,408m elevation
• The main trail loop is 14.9 miles with 2,300ft of climbing
• Best riding season is October-April to avoid summer heat
• Intermediate to advanced skill level required for technical sections
• Stunning views extend to Ibiza on clear days
• Local towns of Finestrat and Benidorm offer post-ride amenities

What Makes Puig Campana Special?

Ever looked at a mountain and thought “I wanna ride that”? That’s what Puig Campana does to bikers in Costa Blanca. This big limestone mountain isn’t just any hill – it’s THE mountain that stands out when you’re anywhere near Benidorm. At 1,408 meters tall, it’s like the king of Costa Blanca mountains.

What makes it so good for mountain biking? It’s got this perfect mix of tough climbs and fun downhills. The views are crazy good too – you can see the blue Mediterranean on one side and more mountains on the other. On super clear days, some riders swear they can spot Ibiza from the top!

I rode this trail last spring and couldn’t believe how the terrain changes as you go up. You start in these scrubby pine areas and end up in rocky alpine-like terrain. The trail has this cool figure-eight shape that lets you hit different parts of the mountain in one ride. Some parts are smooth and flowy, others are rocky and technical – it never gets boring.

If you’re into mountain biking adventures in Costa Blanca, Puig Campana should be at the top of your list. It’s not just a ride – it’s an experience that shows you what makes this region special.

Trail Details and Route Description

The main Puig Campana – Ponotx trail is a 14.9-mile figure-eight loop that’ll give your legs and lungs a proper workout. You’re looking at about 2,300 feet of climbing, which doesn’t sound crazy until you realize how steep some sections are. The average gradient hits 12% on the main climbs, and some bits are even steeper!

Here’s how the trail breaks down:

The trail surface changes a lot as you go. You’ll hit hardpack dirt, loose scree, rock gardens, and some smooth sections. There’s even parts where you’ll need to hop off and carry your bike – what riders call “hike-a-bike” sections. These tough bits are worth it though, cuz the views and downhills that follow are amazing.

One thing I love about this trail is how it connects to other routes. If you’re staying in the area for a few days, you can link it with the biking routes on Costa Blanca to create multi-day adventures. The Super Enduro Benidorm route (40 miles) makes a great addition if you’re feeling extra energetic.

Best Time to Ride Puig Campana

Timing is everything when riding Puig Campana. Get it wrong and you’ll be suffering in extreme heat or caught in bad weather. Get it right and you’ll have perfect conditions for an epic day out.

The sweet spot for riding here is October through April. During these months, temperatures usually sit between 8-15°C (46-59°F), which is perfect for climbing without overheating. Summer (June-September) is just too hot for most riders – temperatures regularly hit 30°C+ (86°F+), and there’s not much shade on the mountain.

Morning rides work best for a few reasons:

• Trails are usually drier and more stable
• Visibility is better for those amazing views
• You’ll avoid afternoon heat
• You’ll have time to enjoy a post-ride meal in town

I made the mistake of starting too late once and ended up descending in fading light – not fun on technical trails! Now I always aim to start by 9am at the latest.

Weather can change quickly on the mountain too. I’ve seen clear skies turn to threatening clouds in under an hour. Always check the forecast before heading out, and pack a light jacket even on sunny days – it can be surprisingly cool at the summit.

Winter riding is possible and sometimes magical, but be prepared for occasional rain and cooler temperatures. The upside is you’ll practically have the trails to yourself!

Technical Difficulty and Skill Requirements

Let’s be real – Puig Campana ain’t for beginners. This trail demands solid mountain biking skills and good fitness. If you’re new to mountain biking, you might wanna try some easier Costa Blanca biking routes first.

The technical challenges include:

• Tight switchbacks that test your turning technique
• Rock gardens that’ll rattle your fillings loose
• Exposed sections with big consequences for mistakes
• Steep climbs that require good balance and power
• Fast descents with surprise features

You need intermediate to advanced skills to enjoy this trail safely. That means you should be comfortable with:

• Riding over obstacles like rocks and roots
• Handling your bike on steep terrain
• Basic bike maintenance (you don’t wanna be stuck with a mechanical)
• Reading trail features and choosing good lines
• Managing your energy over a long ride

As for your bike, a trail or enduro mountain bike with 140-160mm of suspension travel works best. Full suspension is definitely recommended – your body will thank you after bouncing down rocky descents. Good brakes and grippy tires are must-haves too.

I’ve seen riders attempt this on hardtails and even gravel bikes, but they weren’t having nearly as much fun as those on proper mountain bikes. If you don’t have the right bike, check out bike rentals in Costa Blanca – many shops offer high-quality enduro bikes perfect for this terrain.

Stunning Views and Natural Highlights

The views from Puig Campana will literally make you stop pedaling and just stare. I’m not exaggerating when I say they’re some of the best in all of Costa Blanca. The mountain’s position near the coast creates this perfect combo of sea and mountain vistas that’s hard to beat.

As you climb higher, the Mediterranean spreads out before you like a blue blanket. On super clear days (usually in winter after rain clears the air), you can actually see Ibiza sitting on the horizon. It’s about 80km away but totally visible from the upper sections of the trail.

The natural features along the way are just as impressive:

• The Giant’s Notch: This huge V-shaped cut in the mountain has a cool local legend about a giant who sliced the peak with his sword
• La Cava Ridge: A dramatic rocky spine that gives you 360-degree views
• Barranc de la Canal: A natural gully that creates a perfect descent channel
• Alpine Flora: The upper sections have unique plants you won’t see elsewhere in the region

The geology here is pretty special too. The mountain is mainly limestone, which creates those dramatic cliffs and rock formations. In some places, the trail passes right next to vertical rock walls that climbers love.

Wildlife spotting is another bonus. I’ve seen eagles soaring above the ridges and mountain goats watching curiously as I pedal by. Early morning riders sometimes spot foxes and wild boar too.

Don’t forget to look back as you climb – sometimes the view behind you is even better than what’s ahead!

Local Tips and Trail Access

Getting to Puig Campana is pretty straightforward, but there’s some local knowledge that’ll make your day much better. The main trailhead starts near the town of Finestrat, which sits at the base of the mountain.

Here’s how to find it:

1. Head to Finestrat (about 15 minutes inland from Benidorm)
2. Follow signs for “Font del Molí” or “Puig Campana”
3. Park at the recreation area where the dirt road begins
4. The trail starts on a fire road that gradually narrows

If you’re staying in Costa Blanca biking accommodation, many places can provide detailed directions or even guided rides.

Some insider tips that’ll help:

• The 5km access road can be shuttled if you arrange transport (saves energy for the good stuff)
• Carry more water than you think you need – there are no reliable water sources on the mountain
• The trail is marked with small cairns (rock piles) in some sections – keep an eye out for them
• Mobile phone coverage is spotty on parts of the mountain – download offline maps
• The local bike shops in Finestrat know the trail conditions – check with them before riding

Speaking of bike shops, if you need last-minute supplies or repairs, there are several good bike shops in Costa Blanca that can help. Some even offer guide services if you want local knowledge on the trail.

After your ride, Finestrat’s old town has some excellent tapas bars where you can refuel. Ca Iaio and Bar Cantonet are local favorites with outdoor seating and good beer selections. Nothing tastes better than a cold drink after conquering Puig Campana!

Comparing to Other Costa Blanca Trails

Puig Campana stands out even among the many great off-road mountain biking trails in Costa Blanca. It’s bigger, more technical, and offers more variety than most other trails in the region.

Here’s how it compares to some other popular routes:

What makes Puig Campana special is how it combines elements from all these other trails. You get the flow sections like Sierra Bernia, the big mountain feel of Aitana, some beginner-friendly parts like Guadalest, and amazing views similar to Sierra Helada.

I’ve ridden all these trails, and while each has its charm, Puig Campana feels the most complete. It’s like getting a full Costa Blanca mountain biking experience in one trail.

That said, if you’re new to the area or to mountain biking in general, you might want to start with something easier like the Guadalest Valley routes. They’ll give you a taste of the terrain without the technical challenges of Puig Campana.

For experienced riders looking for more after conquering Puig Campana, the Super Enduro Benidorm route offers a bigger day out at 40 miles. It’s less technical but requires more endurance.

Safety Considerations and Preparation

Let’s talk safety, cuz Puig Campana isn’t a place to take chances. The remote sections and technical terrain mean you need to be prepared for anything.

First, never ride alone if possible. The buddy system isn’t just for swimming – it’s for mountain biking too! If you do ride solo (I’ve done it), make sure someone knows your route and expected return time.

Essential gear to bring:

• Helmet (full-face recommended for the descents)
• Knee and elbow pads
• Plenty of water (minimum 2 liters, 3+ in warmer months)
• High-energy snacks
• Basic first aid kit
• Multi-tool and spare tube/repair kit
• Fully charged phone with emergency numbers
• Light jacket (even in summer, the summit can be windy)
• Sunscreen (the Mediterranean sun is stronger than you think)

Weather awareness is super important. The mountain creates its own weather patterns, and conditions can change rapidly. Check forecasts specifically for Puig Campana, not just Benidorm or Finestrat.

If you’re not confident in your skills or navigation, consider using a local guide. Several bike support services in Costa Blanca offer guided rides with people who know the mountain like the back of their hand.

In case of emergency, Spain’s emergency number is 112. They have English-speaking operators. For minor mechanical issues, there are bike repair shops in Costa Blanca that can help get you rolling again.

One last tip from personal experience: start earlier than you think you need to. This gives you plenty of daylight if something goes wrong or if you want to take your time enjoying the views. I always aim to be back at the trailhead at least 2 hours before sunset, just to be safe.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to complete the Puig Campana mountain bike trail?

Most intermediate to advanced riders complete the full 14.9-mile loop in 3-5 hours, depending on fitness and how often you stop for photos or breaks. If you’re pushing hard, it’s possible in under 3 hours, but you’ll miss out on enjoying the views!

Is there a shorter option for riders who don’t want to do the full loop?

Yes! You can ride just the lower half of the figure-eight loop, which cuts the distance to about 7 miles and avoids the most technical upper sections. This still gives you great views and a good taste of the trail.

Are there places to refill water on the trail?

No reliable water sources exist on the mountain. You must carry all the water you’ll need. I recommend at least 2 liters per person, more in hot weather.

Can beginners ride Puig Campana?

Honest answer? Not really. The technical sections and exposure make it unsuitable for true beginners. However, intermediate riders with good fitness can manage it if they’re willing to walk the most difficult parts.

What’s the best bike for riding Puig Campana?

A full-suspension trail or enduro bike with 140-160mm travel is ideal. Good brakes and grippy tires are essential. While you could ride it on a hardtail, you’ll have a much better experience on full suspension.

Are there guided tours available for this trail?

Yes, several local companies offer guided mountain bike tours of Puig Campana. This is a great option if you’re unfamiliar with the area or want to maximize your experience with local knowledge.

What wildlife might I encounter on the trail?

You might see eagles, mountain goats, foxes, wild boar, and various reptiles. None are typically dangerous, but it’s best to observe from a distance and never feed wildlife.

Is the trail well-marked?

Parts of the trail are marked with cairns (small rock piles) and occasional signs, but navigation can be tricky in some sections. I recommend downloading an offline map or GPS track before your ride.