Valencia

They follow the route of a former railway line that runs parallel to the Vinalopó River. On the way to Banyeres de Mariola, you will pass orchards and many small villages; in this town, you have a choice between two routes: 

Route 1: The route continues along flat terrain, passing the natural enclave Paraje Natural de la Serra de Mariola, which brings us to Bocairent in a few kilometers. 

Route 2: You'll travel to the Sierra de Mariola Natural Park and ascend to higher altitudes. Here, you'll be captivated by the breathtaking views and the diverse flora and fauna. Afterwards, you'll continue to the impressive medieval town of Bocairent, where you'll spend the night. A stroll through the old town is an absolute must.

Elevation difference: 235 m/550 m

Hotel example: Hotel Agora

After a healthy and hearty breakfast, we set off by bicycle to Ontinyent, the district capital with its architecturally interesting historic center. There, numerous cafés and restaurants await you, where you can savor the variety of local cuisine. The route takes us to La Valleta d'Agres, where, as we cycle past orchards at the foot of the impressive Serra de Mariola mountain range, we can enjoy a tranquil atmosphere. You will pass through villages such as Alfafara and Agres, each with its own unique character.

Difference in altitude: 268 m

Hotel example: Hotel Kazar

You cycle along a quiet path past peaceful fields of grain, olive groves, and vineyards. You end the day exploring the small villages around Benicadell. Admire the magnificent views and the rugged beauty of the landscape. Discover interesting historical structures such as the snow pits (Pozos de Nieve) and the remains of an irrigation system.ems, which was begun by the Romans and later perfected by the Arabs. The area also contains archaeological sites, castles, palaces, ancient wells and caves.

Difference in altitude: 513 m

Hotel example: Hotel Granja San Miguel

Explore the small towns, villages, and hamlets of this region and enjoy the welcoming atmosphere with its outstanding architectural heritage. Admire traditional crafts and sample delicious regional specialties. Your route takes you through the area along the shores of the Bellús Reservoir, an exceptional region known for its breathtaking scenery and diverse ecology. You will discover numerous cultural artifacts, including old watermills, azuts (water diversion dams), and remnants of the old irrigation infrastructure. The soils here are among the most fertile in the region, so it's no surprise that there are many vegetable gardens. You have two options to choose from: 

Route 1: the shorter route, where you drive directly to the Bellús Dam.

Route 2: To conclude, you will visit the villages of the Benicadell Valley and later in the day, if you wish, you can explore the shores of the Bellús Dam.

Elevation difference: 448 m/540 m

Accommodation: Casa Aldomar guesthouse

Starting in Xàtiva, you'll delve deep into the Valencian hinterland, with its verdant gardens and orange groves. The region is renowned for its high-quality oranges, which thrive in the Mediterranean climate. Another advantage is the year-round sunny and pleasant weather. You'll hike into a picturesque valley, following a section of the pilgrimage route that connects various monasteries. There, you'll have the opportunity to visit the imposing Simat de la Valldigna Monastery. Passing through rice paddies, you'll reach Cullera, a coastal town with stunning sea views, where you can sample some of the region's rice specialties. The town boasts numerous beaches that can be enjoyed even in winter when the sun is shining.

Difference in altitude: 570 m

Hotel example: Hotel el Chalet

If you choose the longer route, you'll start along the Xúquer River, whose waters irrigate the many fertile fields and groves of the entire region. You'll enter the Albufera Natural Park, one of the most valuable ecosystems in the Mediterranean. Marvel at the diverse natural landscapes, including lakes, marshes, dunes, and pine forests along the coast. Each of these ecosystems is home to its own unique flora and fauna. It's well worth trying one of the typical dishes of this special area. You can stroll along the harbor and watch the fishermen at work before returning to picturesque El Palmar. Upon arrival in Valencia, explore the impressive old town with its cathedral and central market – a truly cathedral-like market! The narrow streets and squares with their countless cafes, bars, and restaurants are a must-see. Food lovers will be in their element here. The city's nightlife is also renowned.

Elevation difference: 161 m / 147 m

Hotel example: Hotel Silken Puerta Valencia

After a good breakfast, the trip officially ends; departure is at your own discretion.

Overnight stay in Valencia