4.5
(929)
37,367
riders
132
rides
Touring cycling around Tàrbena is characterized by picturesque mountains, offering views of the Mediterranean Sea and the La Marina Baixa region. The landscape features dramatic peaks and rolling hills adorned with almond and olive groves, alongside natural springs and pine forests. The region's quiet mountain roads and varied terrain provide a suitable environment for year-round cycling.
Last updated: August 20, 2026
4.7
(40)
2,055
riders
61.5km
04:26
1,360m
1,360m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
107
riders
14.2km
01:04
360m
360m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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92
riders
26.5km
01:58
630m
630m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
103
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
58
riders
23.7km
01:39
450m
450m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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here is the view in nice weather. today it was quite cloudy, but it's definitely worth it
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nice break spot with shade and great panoramic view of the Vall del Pop
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Great climb and the second one is even better.
1
1
Tough but with magnificent views. Relatively quiet road.
2
0
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.
10
3
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.
5
0
The apple strudel is fantastic, you should try it
1
0
The 7.5 km climb to Sa Creueta from the Tàrbena junction is a scenic and steady ascent with an average gradient of 3.5%, ideal as part of a longer route through the Costa Blanca mountains. Most of the climb is gentle, but the final 500 meters kick up steeply, with gradients well over 10% — a real sting in the tail! At the top, there’s no monument or sign — just a quiet mountain road and an incredible reward: panoramic views over the Mediterranean Sea, with Altea, Albir, and Benidorm visible on clear days. It’s one of those peaceful spots that feels like a secret. ⚠️ Be cautious on the descent toward Castell de Castells: several steep, narrow hairpin bends demand full attention. The road surface can be variable, so keep your speed in check and your line smooth.
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Tàrbena offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 100 different options to explore. These routes cater to various skill levels, including 18 easy, 27 moderate, and 56 difficult trails.
Thanks to its mild, Mediterranean climate with over 300 sunny days per year, Tàrbena is ideal for touring cycling year-round. Many cyclists, including professionals, use the area for winter training. For a particularly picturesque experience, visit between January and March when the almond trees are in full blossom, transforming the hillsides into a vibrant spectacle.
The terrain around Tàrbena is diverse, featuring picturesque mountains like the Sierra de Bernia, rolling hills adorned with almond and olive groves, and quiet mountain roads. You'll encounter challenging ascents, such as the famous Coll de Rates, as well as more gentle sections through valleys. The landscape also includes natural springs and pine forests, offering varied scenery.
Yes, Tàrbena's touring cycling network caters to all abilities. You can find routes ranging from easy, gentle rides to moderate challenges, and even difficult paths with significant climbs and technical sections. For example, La Vall de Laguar – Circular from Benigembla is a difficult route, while other options provide a more relaxed experience.
The routes around Tàrbena offer stunning natural beauty and historical landmarks. You can encounter dramatic peaks, almond and olive groves, natural springs, and pine forests. Notable attractions include the Algar Springs Waterfalls, the impressive Mascarat Canyon, and the historic Juvees d'Alt. The Guadalest Reservoir area also offers scenic views and historical sites like El Castell de Guadalest.
Absolutely. The region is known for its panoramic vistas. Many routes pass through or near famous viewpoints, such as the Bridge viewpoint and the West Viewpoint near Guadalest. The Sa Creueta Pass (780 m) – Coll de Rates Viewpoint loop from Xaló specifically highlights the renowned Coll de Rates Viewpoint, which offers spectacular views stretching across the coastline and even to Ibiza on clear days.
The touring cycling routes in Tàrbena are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 700 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the quiet mountain roads, the diverse and stunning landscapes, and the challenging yet rewarding ascents like Coll de Rates. The well-maintained roads and minimal traffic contribute to a peaceful and safe cycling experience.
Yes, many touring cycling routes in the Tàrbena area are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. An example is the Velosol Café – Castell de Castells loop from Xaló, which offers a varied circular journey through the region.
The Tàrbena region is cyclist-friendly, and you'll find various cafes and establishments catering to riders. The famous Coll de Rates climb, for instance, is home to the Café de Rutes, a popular stop. Routes like the Café de Rutes (Coll de Rates) – Font del Llavador de Parcent loop from Alcalalí incorporate such refreshment points into their design, ensuring you have places to rest and refuel.
While popular routes like Coll de Rates attract many, the extensive network around Tàrbena also offers quieter alternatives. The Port de Bèrnia, for example, is noted for being a quiet, technical, and scenic climb. Exploring routes that venture deeper into the Vall d'Ebo or the rolling terrain of the Jalón Valley can also lead to less crowded and equally rewarding cycling experiences.
While specific designated cycling parking areas are not detailed, Tàrbena and surrounding villages like Xaló, Benigembla, and Alcalalí, which serve as starting points for many routes, typically offer public parking facilities. It's advisable to check local parking regulations upon arrival, especially during peak seasons.
Tàrbena is a mountain village, and direct public transport options might be limited, especially for carrying bicycles. While local bus services connect some towns in the Alicante province, it's best to verify if they accommodate bikes. Many cyclists prefer to drive to a starting point in the region and then cycle from there, or arrange for cycling-friendly transfers.
While many outdoor areas in Spain are dog-friendly, specific regulations for cycling routes can vary. Generally, if routes pass through natural parks or private land, there might be restrictions or requirements to keep dogs on a leash. It's always recommended to check local signage or park regulations for the specific route you plan to cycle with your dog.


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