Cycling Tour of Valencia

Welcome to your cycling adventure in Spain and the enchanting mountain town of Mora de Rubielos, nestled high at the crossroads of Valencia and Aragon regions. This town, steeped in history, is crowned by a grand Medieval castle and features a compact old town that echoes tales of its past as a strategic frontier garrison.

Mora de Rubielos is not only a feast for the eyes but also for the palate, renowned for its exquisite truffles and the celebrated Teruel Ham produced in the surrounding countryside. We encourage you to indulge in these local delicacies at one of the town’s outstanding restaurants, offering a perfect introduction to the culinary delights that await you on this journey.

Today’s route takes you on a breathtaking journey from Aragon into the province of Valencia, tracing a path through a stunning gorge that promises awe-inspiring views throughout the day. The ride unfolds on extremely quiet roads, offering a serene blend of mountainous and forested landscapes that capture the essence of this region’s natural beauty.

Your destination, Montanejos, is famed for its therapeutic thermal springs, a legacy of its time under the Muslim caliphate of Al-Andalus during the Medieval period. These natural baths, free to visit and conveniently located near our hotel, provide a tranquil retreat for relaxation and rejuvenation after the day’s ride.

Beyond its therapeutic waters, the old town of Montanejos invites exploration, with an array of tapas bars and charming cafes nestled within its historic streets. This town, rich in both natural wonders and culinary delights, offers a perfect end to a day filled with scenic beauty and physical challenge.

Departing from Montanejos, today’s route meanders eastward towards the Mediterranean, beginning with a journey through open scenery that boasts spectacular valley views. The ride transitions onto an off-road cycling greenway, descending gently through the Sierra Espadán Natural Park, enriching your experience with the park’s natural beauty.

The path leads through the historic town of Jérica, eventually reaching Navajas, known for its stunning waterfalls. The day culminates in Segorbe, a town of significant historical importance since Roman times, featuring a charming historic centre, a hilltop castle, and remnants of Medieval walls.

Today’s circular ride offers a breathtaking loop through the Sierra Espadán Natural Park. The shorter route meanders through serene landscapes adorned with pine forests, cherry orchards, and almond trees, passing several castles, including the notable Almonecir fortress from the 12th century.

The longer route delves deeper into the park, challenging riders with climbs on roads that have featured in the Vuelta a España, offering a closer connection to cycling’s competitive spirit amidst the park’s natural splendour.

Continuing on an off-road greenway, the journey heads downhill towards the historical city of Sagunto, a crucial site in ancient history. Here, the legacy of Hannibal and the Second Punic War unfolds, with the Roman citadel and Arabic castle remnants standing as testaments to the town’s rich past.

Finish your ride at a hotel in Valencia’s historic heart, steps away from significant sites like the UNESCO-listed Silk Exchange and the vibrant El Carmen district.

On this final day of cycling, we venture to the serene Albufera Natural Park, a stunning wetland reserve just south of Valencia, renowned for its vast lagoon and rich biodiversity. The day kicks off with a leisurely ride through Valencia’s lush Turia Gardens, leading us towards the city’s vibrant beach and marina area.

Exiting the urban landscape, we transition onto coastal cycle lanes, paving the way to the natural beauty of Albufera. This park is a haven for birdwatchers, hosting a plethora of resident and migrating bird species, making it a perfect spot for nature enthusiasts.

Riding through Albufera’s picturesque rice fields, we arrive at El Palmar, an ideal lunch spot celebrated for offering Spain’s finest paellas. This culinary stop provides not just a taste of traditional Spanish cuisine but also a moment to appreciate the local culture and the natural surroundings.

As the morning light bathes Valencia in its warm glow, we bid farewell to the roads that have led us through ancient towns, over lush mountains, and along the vibrant coast. Our journey may end, but the memories of pedalling through the Albufera’s tranquil wetlands, the historic streets of Valencia, and the picturesque landscapes of Aragon and Valencia will linger.

Though we part ways, the spirit of our adventure remains a reminder of the beauty we’ve shared and the paths yet to be explored. Safe travels until we meet again on another road, under another sky.