Valencia, Color and Contrasts

Day 1: Arrival in Biar
Day 2: Biar – Bocairent, 19 / 27 mi. (30 / 44 km)
Day 3: Bocairent – Ontinyent, 9 / 19 mi. (15 / 30 km)
Day 4: Ontinyent Loop, 0 / 25 mi. (0 / 40 km)
Day 5: Ontinyent – Xàtiva, 22 mi. (35 km)
Day 6: Xàtiva – Cullera, 34 mi. (55 km)
Day 7: Cullera – València, 29 / 35 mi. (46 / 56 km)
Day 8: València

Day 1: Arrival in Biar
You arrive in Biar, a charming town full of history and crowned by its impressive 12th-century castle, which has stood witness to many important events over the centuries. Take time to wander through its old quarter, with its maze of narrow streets, quaint squares, and centuries-old churches. Sample local specialties at one of the many traditional bars and restaurants scattered throughout the town.

Sample accommodation: Hotel Rural La Façana

Day 2: Biar – Bocairent, 19 / 27 mi. (30 / 44 km)
You’ll follow a scenic route along a former railway line that runs parallel to the River Vinalopó. Along the way, you’ll pass fruit orchards and several small villages before reaching Banyeres de Mariola, where you can choose between two routes: Route 1: Continue on relatively flat terrain, bordering the Paraje Natural de la Serra de Mariola, and reach Bocairent in just a few kilometers. Route 2: Venture into the heart of the Sierra de Mariola Natural Park, climbing higher for spectacular views and abundant Mediterranean flora and fauna. You then descend into the medieval town of Bocairent, where a stroll through its picturesque old quarter is a must.

Sample accommodation: Hotel Ágora

Day 3: Bocairent – Ontinyent, 9 / 19 mi. (15 / 30 km)
After a good breakfast, begin your ride toward Ontinyent, the district capital with a rich architectural and cultural heritage. The town features a beautiful historic center filled with cozy cafés and restaurants offering local specialties. There are two route options: Route 1: The shorter option takes you directly to Ontinyent, allowing extra time to explore Bocairent before departure. Route 2: Take the scenic greenway through La Valleta d’Agres, cycling past fruit groves beneath the dramatic peaks of the Serra de Mariola. Along the way, pass through charming villages like Alfafara and Agres, each with its own distinct personality.

Sample accommodation: Hotel Kazar

Day 4: Ontinyent Loop, 0 / 25 mi. (0 / 40 km)
Today offers an optional loop ride or a rest day. If you choose to cycle, you’ll follow a peaceful route past rolling fields of grains, olive groves, and vineyards on your way to Fontanars dels Alforins. Here, you’ll visit a nobleman’s house converted into a wine cellar and enjoy tastings of local wines. You may also stop at artisan shops offering handmade delicacies and crafts that reflect the region’s deep-rooted traditions.

Sample accommodation: Hotel Kazar

Day 5: Ontinyent – Xàtiva, 22 mi. (35 km)
Set out through verdant fields and fertile groves of almond, olive, and apricot trees, which create a colorful patchwork with persimmon plantations and vineyards. Pass through Albaida, where a fortified palace dominates its historic heart, before reaching the Bellús Dam. This area, known for its scenic beauty and ecological richness, features cultural landmarks such as old watermills, irrigation dams, and channels. Follow a path along the Albaida River gorge, where you can cool off with a dip in summer, and continue toward the noble town of Xàtiva, crowned by its majestic castle.

Sample accommodation: Casa Aldomar Guest House

Day 6: Xàtiva – Cullera, 34 mi. (55 km)
Depart Xàtiva and ride into the fertile hinterlands of Valencia, where the landscape is filled with lush orange groves nourished by the Mediterranean climate. Quiet rural roads and paths lead you through the green valley floor, where you’ll follow part of an old pilgrimage route connecting historic monasteries. Take time to visit the impressive Monastery of Simat de la Valldigna before continuing among rice fields to the coastal town of Cullera. Here, you can enjoy the sea breeze, stunning beaches, and the region’s signature rice dishes such as Valencian paella and arroz a banda.

Sample accommodation: Hotel El Chalet

Day 7: Cullera – València, 29 / 35 mi. (46 / 56 km)
If you opt for the longer route, begin along the River Xúquer, whose waters sustain the region’s farmlands. The route continues into the Parque Natural de la Albufera, one of the Mediterranean’s most important ecosystems, home to wetlands, lakes, dunes, and pine forests. Stop in the fishing village of El Palmar to enjoy a local meal or watch fishermen return from their daily work. Upon reaching Valencia, discover its historic old quarter, magnificent cathedral, and lively central market. End the day exploring the city’s cafés, restaurants, and vibrant nightlife.

Sample accommodation: Hotel Silken Puerta Valencia

Day 8: València
After breakfast, your tour comes to an end, or you may choose to extend your stay to further enjoy the charm of this Mediterranean city.

Day 1: Arrival in Biar
Day 2: Biar – Bocairent, 15 / 20 / 29 mi. (24 / 32 / 46 km)
Day 3: Bocairent – Ontinyent, 19 mi. (30 km)
Day 4: Ontinyent – Salem, 19 mi. (30 km)
Day 5: Salem – Xàtiva, 21 / 25 mi. (33 / 40 km)
Day 6: Xàtiva – Cullera, 34 mi. (55 km)
Day 7: Cullera – València, 29 / 35 mi. (46 / 56 km)
Day 8: València

Approx. 109 - 162 mi. (175 - 260 km) by bike 

Day 1: Arrival in Biar
You arrive in Biar, a city rich in heritage and crowned by its remarkable 12th-century castle that has witnessed countless historic events. Take time to wander through its old quarter, exploring the maze of narrow streets, charming squares, and historic churches. You can sample local cuisine at one of the many traditional bars and restaurants scattered throughout the town.

Sample accommodation: Hotel Rural La Façana

Day 2: Biar – Bocairent, 15 / 20 / 29 mi. (24 / 32 / 46 km)
After breakfast, set out following a former railway line that runs parallel to the River Vinalopó. You’ll pass fruit-tree orchards and several small villages before approaching Banyeres de Mariola, where two route options await:

Route 1: Continue on relatively flat terrain bordering the Paraje Natural de la Serra de Mariola, reaching Bocairent in just a few kilometers.
Route 2: Venture into the heart of the Paraje Natural de la Sierra de Mariola, climbing to higher ground for stunning panoramic views and abundant flora and fauna.

End your day in the medieval town of Bocairent, whose picturesque old quarter is best explored on foot.

Sample accommodation: Hotel Ágora

Day 3: Bocairent – Ontinyent, 19 mi. (30 km)
After a hearty breakfast, begin cycling toward Ontinyent, the district capital, known for its architectural charm and lively historic center. The route passes through La Valleta d’Agres, offering tranquil scenery framed by fruit groves and the impressive Serra de Mariola mountains. You’ll ride through villages such as Alfafara and Agres, each with its own distinct character and welcoming atmosphere.

Sample accommodation: Hotel Kazar

Day 4: Ontinyent – Salem, 19 mi. (30 km)
Ride along peaceful country lanes bordered by fields of cereals, olive groves, and vineyards. As you explore the Benicadell area, enjoy breathtaking views and fascinating traces of history, including ancient snow pits (pozos de nieve) and remnants of Roman and Arab irrigation systems. This region is dotted with castles, fountains, palaces, and caves, reflecting centuries of human ingenuity and adaptation to the land.

Sample accommodation: Hotel Granja San Miguel

Day 5: Salem – Xàtiva, 21 / 25 mi. (33 / 40 km)
Today’s journey takes you through towns, hamlets, and fertile farmland rich in architectural heritage and local craftsmanship. You’ll reach the shores of the Bellús Dam, a scenic and ecologically significant area, where ancient watermills, diversion dams, and irrigation channels still stand as a testament to the region’s agricultural history.

Route 1: The shorter option goes directly to the Bellús Dam.
Route 2: The longer route passes through the villages of the Benicadell Valley, ending at the dam for optional exploration.

Sample accommodation: Casa Aldomar Guest House

Day 6: Xàtiva – Cullera, 34 mi. (55 km)
Depart Xàtiva and head into the lush hinterlands of Valencia, where Mediterranean sunshine nourishes the region’s famous orange groves. Follow a peaceful valley and sections of an ancient pilgrimage route connecting monasteries, with a chance to visit the magnificent Monastery of Simat de la Valldigna. Continue through rice fields to reach the coastal city of Cullera, known for its stunning beaches and delicious rice dishes such as Valencian paella and arroz a banda.

Sample accommodation: Hotel El Chalet

Day 7: Cullera – València, 29 / 35 mi. (46 / 56 km)
For the longer option, begin along the banks of the River Xúquer, whose waters sustain the region’s fertile groves and fields. Enter the Parque Natural de la Albufera, one of the Mediterranean’s most important wetlands, home to lakes, marshes, sand dunes, and pine forests. Enjoy a local meal in El Palmar, a picturesque fishing village within the park. Upon reaching València, explore its magnificent old quarter, cathedral, and bustling Central Market before enjoying the city’s vibrant dining and nightlife scene.

Sample accommodation: Hotel Silken Puerta Valencia

Day 8: València
Enjoy breakfast before your departure, or extend your stay to continue exploring this dynamic coastal city.

Day 1: Arrival in Altea
Day 2: Altea – Xàbia, 12 / 18 mi. (20 / 30 km)
Day 3: Xàbia – Denia, 15 mi. (25 km)
Day 4: Denia – Gandia, 25 mi. (40 km)
Day 5: Gandia – Cullera, 18 / 29 mi. (29 / 46 km)
Day 6: Cullera – València, 29 / 34 mi. (46 / 55 km)
Day 7: València

Day 1: Arrival in Altea
Transfer from Alicante Airport to Altea (included in the price). Enjoy this seaside city known for its charming old town and peaceful seafront in winter, which transforms into a lively promenade in summer with many beach bars called “chiringuitos.” The historic quarter of Altea sits on a hill crowned by the parish church of the Virgin of Consuelo, featuring a striking blue-and-white tiled dome and cupola. From the square in front of the church, you can take in panoramic views of the entire region.

Sample accommodation: Hotel Tossal d’Altea or Hotel Cap Negret

Day 2: Altea – Xàbia, 12 / 18 mi. (20 / 30 km)
Today you’ll experience the beautiful contrast between the coast and the inland fields and mountains. Enjoy views of the Alicante coastline and the mountains rising more than 1,400 meters behind it. You’ll cycle through an area known for its traditional wine-making, passing vineyards and “Riu Raus,” arched buildings where grapes were once dried to make sultanas and raisins. Your destination is the historic town of Xàbia, home to some of Alicante’s best beaches. Those taking the longer option will visit Cabo la Nao for its spectacular views.
Elevation gain: 394 ft (120 m) for 20 km / 1,608 ft (490 m) for 35 km

Sample accommodation: Hotel Sol

Day 3: Xàbia – Denia, 15 mi. (25 km)
Your route follows the slopes of Montgó mountain until reaching Denia. Along the way, you’ll see more of the historic “Riu Raus” buildings, once used for grape drying and now sometimes serving as markets or community spaces. Denia offers beautiful, quiet beaches and a lively culinary scene. Designated a UNESCO Creative City in 2015, it’s a paradise for food lovers.
Elevation gain: 558 ft (170 m)

Sample accommodation: Hotel El Raset

Day 4: Denia – Gandia, 25 mi. (40 km)
Leaving Denia, you’ll encounter small wetland areas known as marjals, a birdwatcher’s paradise. The route includes sections of an old 19th-century British-built railway line. Continue toward the elegant coastal city of Gandia, famous for its historic center and Ducal Palace.
Elevation gain: 525 ft (160 m)

Sample accommodation: Hotel Gandia Palace

Day 5: Gandia – Cullera, 18 / 29 mi. (29 / 46 km)
Today you’ll ride through orange groves and small valleys, following part of a pilgrimage route that connected various monasteries. You can visit the impressive monastery of Simat de la Valldigna. Continue through rice fields to Cullera, a coastal city known for its stunning sea views and rice-based cuisine. Enjoy local dishes such as paella or “arroz a banda.”
Elevation gain: 295 ft (90 m) for 29 km / 394 ft (120 m) for 46 km

Sample accommodation: Hotel El Chalet or Hotel Cullera Holidays

Day 6: Cullera – València, 29 / 34 mi. (46 / 55 km)
For those choosing the longer option, the route begins along the banks of the River Xúquer, whose waters nourish the fertile fields of the region. You’ll enter the natural reserve of Parque Natural de la Albufera, a vital Mediterranean ecosystem of lakes, marshes, dunes, and pinewoods. Savor a local dish in El Palmar, a fishing village surrounded by rice paddies. Upon arrival in Valencia, explore its magnificent old quarter, cathedral, and central market, or relax in its lively cafés and restaurants.
Elevation gain: 262 ft (80 m) for 42 km / 312 ft (95 m) for 52 km

Sample accommodation: Hotel Silken Puerta Valencia

Day 7: Valencia
After breakfast, your trip officially ends, or you may choose to extend your stay.

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