Calp - Puerto Vall D´Ebo - Puerto de Bernia - Calp

☀️ The Treasures of the Costa Blanca: Between Sea, Quarries, and the Bernia

Get ready for a grand cycling trip that encompasses everything that makes the Costa Blanca such a magical cycling paradise! This route of 127 kilometers takes you from the stunning coastline through fast roads in rugged quarries to deep within unspoiled mountain valleys. With the mythical Puerto Vall D'Ebo, a hidden 'goat path,' and the grueling Puerto de Bernia, serious elevation gains are on the menu. A ride for the cyclist who loves to suffer, blaze, and enjoy breathtaking panoramas! 🚴‍♂️🌴

📊 Ride Details & Difficulty Level

Distance: 127 km 📏

Elevation Gain: approx. 2300 hm 🏔️

Surface: Mainly excellent asphalt, with some narrow, steep mountain roads 🏎️

Condition: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (A tough ride; the 2300 elevation gain and steep sections require excellent climbing legs)

Technique: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (Supreme concentration required on the 'goat path' and the first very steep descent kilometers of the Bernia)

🗺️ Route Description

We smoothly clip in and depart from Calp along the coast towards Moraira 🌊. The sea breeze quickly gives way to the inland, where we warm up with a short but steep climb to Teulada. From here, the big wheel is on: we blast through the impressive quarries and race at high speed via Gata de Gorgos, Pedreguer, Benidoleig, Orba, Tormos, and Sagra. 💨

We initiate a short descent towards Pego, where we sharply turn left for the first real challenge of the day: the infamous Puerto Vall D'Ebo! 📈 After completing these delightful hairpin turns, we briefly descend into the village of La Vall d'Ebo.

Here's a significant surprise: we turn onto a 'goat path' of about 4 kilometers that starts immediately with heavy, very steep sections. 🐐 Once we've survived this, we are rewarded with a stunning descent through the Valley of Petracos, an undiscovered and utterly BEAUTIFUL piece of nature. 🦅

Back on the main road it's time to blast towards Benigembla, after which we arrive at the foot of the second major obstacle: the Puerto de Bernia. This climb squeezes the last remains of energy from your calves.

At the top, the reward awaits: a delightful, fun descent towards Benissa. 🎢 ATTENTION: the first kilometers of this descent are extremely steep and require prudent steering and braking. However, also keep an eye on the surroundings, as you are treated to a breathtaking view over Calp and the iconic rock, the Peñón de Ifach. 📸

Once safely arrived at the roundabout in Benissa, we turn onto the main road. The wind at our backs, the gear in the heaviest setting, and flying back to the finish in Calp! 🏁

✨ Highlights

💨 Blasting through the Quarries: A powerful, undulating course towards Gata de Gorgos where speed in the peloton can significantly rise.

⛰️ Puerto Vall D'Ebo: One of the most rhythmic and beloved climbs in the region, a true delight for climbers.

🌿 The Valley of Petracos: An absolute gem; the descent through this rugged, quiet area feels like an adventure.

🖼️ Panorama from the Bernia: The descent perhaps offers the most beautiful view of the entire Costa Blanca, with the Peñón de Ifach sparkling in the sea.

💡 Tips for the Route

Low Gear for the Goat Path: Don’t be surprised after La Vall d'Ebo. The beginning of this 4 km long path is incredibly steep; shift to your smallest gear in time to avoid coming to a stop! ⚙️

Descent Discipline: The first kilometers in the descent of the Puerto de Bernia are deceptively steep. Don’t let the beautiful view dazzle you, but keep your hands firmly on the brakes. 🛑

Save Your Strength: The way to Sagra is relatively easy, but remember that both the Ebo and Bernia are still ahead. Manage your energy while "blasting"! 🔋

Conclusion

This stage is a real rollercoaster of emotions and landscapes! With 127 kilometers and 2300 elevation gain, you get just the right mix of speed, technical climbs, and breathtaking nature. From hammering on the big gear through the quarries to struggling on hidden goat paths: this ride never gets boring. The majestic descent with a view of Calp is the ultimate cherry on top. Time to put that bike aside and toast with an ice-cold cerveza! 🍻💪