The Land of Contrasts - Valencia Cycling Holiday

Day 1: Individual arrival in Biar

After checking into your hotel take the time to explore Biar, a city full of heritage sites and crowned by its 12th Century castle. Wander around the old quarter with its maze of narrow streets and discover the quaint squares and churches or try some local food in one of the many bars and restaurants.

Day 2: From Biar to Bocairent.

Cycle along the old railway line running parallel to the Vinalopó River.  Pass orchards and small villages on the approach to Banyeres de Mariol.  Here there are a choice of 2 routes:
Route 1: Continues on flat terrain and borders the Paraje Natural de la Sierra de Mariola (a mountain range, most of which is included in a natural park of17,257 ha).  After a few more kilometres you will arrive at your destination, the medieval town of Bocairent.
Route 2: Venture into the Paraje Natural de la Sierra de Mariola, and cycle to higher ground. Marvel at the stunning views, the flora and the fauna. Then head to the imposing medieval town of Bocairent. 

Its worth taking a stroll around the old quarter.

Approx Distance 15, 20 or 28.5 miles (24, 32 or 46 Km )

Day 3: From Bocairent to Fontanars.

After breakfast, set out towards vineyard country.  Follow the green route that leads to La Valleta d’ Agres, a ride conducive to a peaceful frame of mind as you pedal past orange groves at the foot of the impressive Serra de Mariola mountain range. Pass through villages such Alfafara and Agres, each with their own distinctive characters.Tonight you’ll be privileged and stay in a truly rural setting.

Approx Distance 13 or 21 miles (21 or 34 Km)

Day 4: A Circular Route From Fontanars 

Cycle along quiet lanes,  past fields sown with cereals, olive groves and vineyards. Look out for grand  buildings that blend sympathetically into the landscape, as you make your way to Fontanars dels Alforins. Some of the former noblemen’s houses have been converted into wineries and in the village you can visit  speciality shops that offer delicacies and craft items.  If you choose the longer route, you will have the opportunity to visit “La Bastida”, the Iberian town with magnificent views.

Approx Distance 17 - 27 miles (28 - 44 Km)

Day 5: From Fontanars to Xàtiva.

Pedal through lush fields, olive groves and plantations of almonds and apricot trees all making a patchwork with persimmon plantations and old vineyards.  Venture into the historic heart of Ontinyent passing tiny villages and hamlets as you head to the shores of the Bellús dam.  The area around the dam is of great scenic and ecological value.  Discover cultural artefacts such as old watermills, azuts (water diversion dams) and elements of irrigation infrastructure. The lands around here are the most fertile in the district and not surprisingly, market gardens are plentiful.Take a path bordering the gorge of the Albaida River, in spring and summer take a dip in its waters to cool off. Then head to the noble town of Xàtiva, a place steeped in history and crowned by an imposing castle.

Approx Distance 27 miles (43 Km)

Day 6: From Xàtiva to Cullera.

Leave the city of Xàtiva into the hinterland of València with its lush market gardens and orange groves. The area is renowned for the quality of its oranges which are blessed by the climatic conditions of the Mediterranean. Follow a pretty little valley and head along part of the pilgrimage route that linked different monasteries.  Take time to explore the imposing monastery of Simat de la Valldigna.  Continue cycling through rice fields to Cullera where you can taste some of the rice specialties of the area.  Cullera is a coastal town with beautiful sea views, there are plenty of beaches that you can enjoy even in winter if the sun is shining.

Approx Distance 34 miles (55 Km )

Day 7: From Cullera to València.

For the longer option start off along the banks of the River Xúquer, the waters of which irrigate the many, prolific fields and groves of the district. Venture into  Parque Natural de la Albufera, a nature reserve consisting of a freshwater lagoon and estuary set in 21,120 hectares.  It is one of the most valuable ecosystems in the Mediterranean. Take in the different natural environments such as lakes, marshes, sand-dunes and pinewoods that border the seafront. All of these ecosystems have their corresponding flora and fauna. It is well worth enjoying one of the typical dishes of this rather special district.  Also, go for a stroll by the port and see the fisherman at work before they return home to picturesque El Palmar.  On reaching Valencia, explore the old quarter with its cathedral and central market, its narrow streets and squares with cafés, bars and restaurants to suit all tastes. The city’s nightlife is also famous.

Approx Distance 28.5 - 35 miles (46 - 56 Km )

Day 8: València

Individual departure.

Key Details:

• Eight day, seven night itinerary.
• This tour will start Biar and end in Valencia.
• The total distance of this cycling tour is approximately 289km / 180 miles.

Essential Information:

• Tour operates all year round.
• Sunday departures.
• These two cities are connected with many European cities as well as the rest of Spain. The airports in both cities are quite close to the centre and are serviced by ample public transport.
• (Further information)
• For all tours, we have endeavoured to offer the highest comfort possible and hence we have carefully selected accommodation options.  These include: 3*** and 4**** hotels, charming rural houses or farmsteads and high-grade B&Bs
• Nature of the route has been designed to take advantage, as far as possible, of downhill slopes along valleys that start in the interior and wind their way towards coastal plains and the sea. The route hence does not demand a high level of fitness; notwithstanding this, we have different alternatives that can either shorten or lengthen a day’s ride.
• For the first two days, the route follows a former railway line, which is traffic free. For the others we have chosen small quiet roads where cars are seldom seen.

There are many places to visit and things to enjoy during your cycling holiday in Spain including:

• Scenic routes
• Lovely views
• History
• Mostly traffic free or light traffic
• Walled City of Valencia
• Old and new culture
• Orange and olive groves
• Locally produced foof
• Sunshine
• Rugged mountain ranges 
• Lush green valleys

Getting to Spain:

By Rail/Bus – There are a number of public transport operating in Spain.

By Car – Spain can be reached by car via ferry and well-maintained motorways.

By Air – There are a number of flights available to Spain and a number of airports including Valencia Airport.