The best cycling routes around Tàrbena

here is the view in nice weather. today it was quite cloudy, but it's definitely worth it

The medieval tower of Alcalalí stands in the Plaça de l'Ajuntament and was for a long time the tallest building in the city, until a church was built in front of it in the 18th century. Even today, they remain the two tallest buildings in Alcalalí, and no modern construction has detracted from the charm and essence of the historic center. The medieval tower of Alcalalí was built at the end of the 14th century. At that time, Alcalalí and La Vall de Pop were frequently attacked by pirates and bandits; the tower served as a watch post and a refuge in case of invasion. Later, at the behest of the Ruiz de Lihory family, a palatial residence was built, connected to the tower by a drawbridge. This family ruled Alcalalí until 1837, which is why the building is also known as the Torre y Palacio Señorial de Rois de Liori (Torre and Palace of the Kings of Lihory). Since 1992, the tower has belonged to the Alcalalí city council, which restored it and transformed it into a viewpoint that visitors can climb to enjoy the incredible panorama of the Vall de Pop. The tower's original five-story structure has been preserved, and the first and second floors now house a museum. On the third floor, you can admire engravings and graffiti from the 16th to 18th centuries, offering a glimpse into the customs and traditions of Alcalá's inhabitants during that period.

sandwich with the Alkmaar tour club

Great climb and the second one is even better.

Tough but with magnificent views. Relatively quiet road.

If there’s one climb that defines cycling on the Costa Blanca, it’s Coll de Rates. Starting from the village of Parcent, this legendary ascent has become a must-ride for cyclists from around the world — from weekend warriors to Tour de France champions. The climb is just under 7 km long, with an average gradient of around 5%, making it both accessible and rhythmical. The road surface is excellent, the curves are elegant, and the views just keep getting better as you rise above the valley. This is no secret among the pros. Riders from Jumbo-Visma, INEOS, UAE Team Emirates and others regularly use Coll de Rates for winter training. Tadej Pogačar currently holds the Strava KOM, which says a lot about the kind of names that have tested themselves here. On clear days, the view from the top is simply breathtaking — stretching all the way across the coastline, and if you’re lucky, even Ibiza shimmers faintly on the horizon. There’s a café at the summit (seasonal), and the descent toward Tarbena or Castell de Castells is just as rewarding. With its mix of scenery, steady gradients and cycling history, Coll de Rates is one of the most climbed — and most loved — ascents in the world. If you ride only one climb in the region, make it this one.

Tucked away in the mountains between Tàrbena and Castell de Castells, the Puerto de Sa Creueta offers two distinct climbing experiences — and both are worth riding. From Tàrbena, the climb is friendly and scenic. You’ll face about 4 km of steady climbing at around 5%, followed by a rolling 3.5 km section with gentle ups and downs. Just before the top, a short final ramp kicks up sharply to around 12%, but overall this side is rhythmical and not too demanding. The road is wide, smooth and virtually traffic-free, ideal for a relaxed climb. Approaching via the Castell de Castells side, from Tollos or from Benigembla and the Vall de Pop, is a whole different story. After a relatively calm start, the climb hits hard with a 2 km stretch averaging around 10% — sustained, steep, and guaranteed to get your legs burning. This side is definitely more challenging, and a great test for climbers. No matter which direction you choose, you’ll be rewarded with expansive views over the valley near Tàrbena, the rugged peaks of the Marina mountains, and — on a clear day — even the Mediterranean Sea and the skyline of Altea shimmering in the distance. Puerto de Sa Creueta is a hidden gem: peaceful, beautiful and tougher than it looks, especially if you come at it from the inland side. Combine it with Coll de Rates for an unforgettable day in the heart of the Costa Blanca.

The apple strudel is fantastic, you should try it