Calp - Port of Tudons (Penáguila) - Calp

The route begins in Calpe, a well-known coastal town on the Costa Blanca. This route is particularly challenging, ideal for the seasoned cyclist who enjoys steep climbs and spectacular views. Departing from Calpe, you bike along the Mediterranean Sea and head inland, where the mountains of Alicante await you.

After leaving Calpe, you cycle towards Altea, a picturesque village by the coast. Here, you will pass the Temple de l'Arcàngel Miquel, a Russian Orthodox church that stands out with its beautiful golden domes. The serene atmosphere and unique architecture of this church make it a remarkable sight on this early part of the route. You then head towards Altea la Vella, a small and charming mountain village just outside the town of Altea.

From Altea la Vella, you make a slight climb towards Callosa d'en Sarrià, a village known for its fertile citrus orchards and the beautiful Algar waterfalls, which you pass on your right. From here, the road gets steeper, and the serious climb to Guadalest begins, one of the most picturesque villages in the region. The climb to Guadalest offers impressive views over the Guadalest reservoir and the surrounding mountains. This climb has an average gradient of about 5-6% and takes you to the famous castle El Castell de Guadalest.

After a short descent from Guadalest, you arrive in Benimantell, a quiet mountain village that marks the start of the climb to Benifato and Confrides. This section of the route is a mix of rolling roads and steep inclines as you cycle through pine forests and along deep ravines. The climb to Confrides is one of the highlights of the route, with steep sections and a beautiful view of the surrounding mountains. The landscape here is rugged and unspoiled, providing a unique experience for cyclists.

Once you arrive in Confrides, the climb to the top of the Puerto de Confrides begins, a challenging pass at an elevation of about 960 meters. The climb is steady, with an average gradient of 6-7%, and the views along the way are breathtaking. At the top of the pass, you are rewarded with panoramic vistas over the Sierra de Aitana, the highest mountain range in the region.

After the climb, a long descent follows towards Alcoleja and Penàguila, two small mountain villages deep in the Sierra de Aitana. The descent is smooth and offers spectacular views of the mountainous landscape. This section is technical, with many turns, but the roads are well-maintained and allow you to descend with confidence.

From Penàguila, the climb to the famous Puerto de Tudons begins, one of the most iconic climbs in the region. This climb, from the northern side, is longer and more challenging, with an average gradient of 5%. The climb traverses beautiful mountain landscapes with rock formations and pine forests. The Puerto de Tudons is a significant test of your climbing ability, and the summit lies at an altitude of 1,024 meters. This is a highlight of any cycling route through the Costa Blanca, with views worth stopping for.

After reaching the top of Puerto de Tudons, a long, fast descent to the village of Sella follows. This section of the route is technical, with sharp turns and beautiful views of the valley below. From Sella, you cycle on to Finestrat, a charming mountain village with views of the coast and the imposing Puig Campana rock.

From Finestrat, you make your descent towards the coast, passing through L'Alfàs del Pi, a lively town popular with international residents. You then head towards Altea, where you again enjoy the beautiful coastline. The final stretch takes you along the coast back to Calpe, where the route ends.

Distance and Difficulty:

Total distance: Approximately 118 km

Elevation gain: +2600 meters

Difficulty level: Very challenging, with several long and steep climbs. This route is suitable for experienced cyclists with strong fitness.

Conclusion:

This route through the mountains of Alicante offers an unforgettable experience for cyclists who love climbing and breathtaking views. From the steep climbs to Guadalest and the Puerto de Confrides to the iconic Puerto de Tudons, it is a route full of highlights. The varied landscape, peaceful mountain roads, and stunning views over the Costa Blanca make this one of the most beautiful and challenging routes in the region.