Training Rides Cycling
Bicycle trips
Spain
CK Øst cycling club invites you on a new training trip to the cycling paradise Altea and Calpe, along the Costa Blanca coast, north of Alicante in Spain! This is a trip for cyclists who want a pleasant, social spring trip right at the start of the season. Expa Travel is organizing the trip.
There will be wonderful long rides where we cycle through the finest cycling routes in the area. Expa Travel has organized many trips here in recent years. The temperatures in this area in April are usually very cycling-friendly.
We stay comfortably at Hotel Cap Negret right on the beachfront in Altea, a superb cycling hotel with all facilities and full board, with large, delicious buffets.
It is possible to rent top-standard bikes right next to the hotel.
What distinguishes Altea and Calpe from other well-known cycling destinations, such as Mallorca and Gran Canaria, are the steady and gentle climbs in the mountains. A gradient of around 5-6% is normal.
In addition, almost all of these routes offer a magical view towards the coast and the iconic seaside cliff Penon de Ifach (The Calpe Rock), which often graces postcards from the area.
With an average temperature of 15 degrees Celsius in the winter months, and 17-18 degrees in April, it is perhaps no wonder that many cyclists find their way here. And when Alicante airport is also just under an hour's drive away, it makes the area an easily accessible cycling mecca for us winter-weary Scandinavians. You will quickly understand why this is a cycling eldorado - not just for the pros, but for everyone who loves cycling!
The daily program and routes are adapted to the group. If necessary, we split into smaller groups so everyone can cycle at their own pace and choose a distance that suits their daily form and preferences. However, we still try to keep the group together as much as possible, as the social aspect is also an important part of the trip!
The stages vary from approx. 50 to 110 km, or from approx. 2 to 8 hours. The majority of the stages take place at a moderate pace, with individual cycling on the climbs.
For those who want more training, there is usually the option of extra sessions and longer routes.
Those who want less training can choose to have a rest day on the beach or by the pool. The tour guides from Expa Travel are well acquainted with the area and lead the group along carefully selected roads / show you places you might not have found on your own.
The area is hilly with very varied routes. Along the coast, it is less hilly but also has much more traffic. Further inland, we find fantastic roads for cycling with less traffic. Here, you must also expect more hilly terrain.
There are some routes you absolutely shouldn't miss on a trip like this, and many of these have been part of famous cycling races such as the Vuelta a España. The most famous climbs in the area are Coll de Rates, via Tarbena and Parcent.
In addition, cycling through the triangle of Calpe, Parcent, and Guadalest is a must.
If you want a short but steep challenge, you can cycle northeast along the beautiful Costa Blanca coast to Cumbre del Sol – and perhaps all the way to Denia. From Denia, you can also reach the beautiful climb up Vall d’Ebo.
To the south, you will find the charming old town of Altea, and perhaps the slightly less charming beach resort of Benidorm. These places are also great starting points for bike rides, including to Port de Tudons via Finestrat or Puerto Confrides.
So there are many opportunities, both for group tours and extra tours for those who want more of a challenge!
The daily program and routes are adapted to the group. If necessary, we split into smaller groups so everyone can cycle at their own pace and choose a distance that suits their daily form and preferences. However, we still try to keep the group together as much as possible, as the social aspect is also an important part of the trip!
The stages vary from approx. 50 to 110 km, or from approx. 2 to 8 hours. The majority of the stages take place at a moderate pace, with individual cycling on the climbs.
For those who want more training, there is usually the option of extra sessions and longer routes.
Those who want less training can choose to have a rest day on the beach or by the pool. The tour guides from Expa Travel are well acquainted with the area and lead the group along carefully selected roads / show you places you might not have found on your own.
The area is hilly with very varied routes. Along the coast, it is less hilly but also has much more traffic. Further inland, we find fantastic roads for cycling with less traffic. Here, you must also expect more hilly terrain.
There are some routes you absolutely shouldn't miss on a trip like this, and many of these have been part of famous cycling races such as the Vuelta a España. The most famous climbs in the area are Coll de Rates, via Tarbena and Parcent.
In addition, cycling through the triangle of Calpe, Parcent, and Guadalest is a must.
If you want a short but steep challenge, you can cycle northeast along the beautiful Costa Blanca coast to Cumbre del Sol – and perhaps all the way to Denia. From Denia, you can also reach the beautiful climb up Vall d’Ebo.
To the south, you will find the charming old town of Altea, and perhaps the slightly less charming beach resort of Benidorm. These places are also great starting points for bike rides, including to Port de Tudons via Finestrat or Puerto Confrides.
So there are many opportunities, both for group tours and extra tours for those who want more of a challenge!
The exciting, hilly landscape along the Costa Blanca. With fantastic views!
The coffee stops. Multiple coffee stops are important :)
The warm and dry climate
All the varying cycling routes you can choose from
The fine asphalt, perfect for cycling
Super cycling hotel, with a great location and service
Opportunity to wash sweaty cycling clothes - every day!
The program is preliminary; changes may occur. Expa Travel AS reserves the right to correct any typographical errors, as well as modifications to prices and/or exchange rates.
The program is preliminary; changes may occur. Expa Travel AS reserves the right to correct any typographical errors, as well as modifications to prices and/or exchange rates.
Our own private transport awaits us at the airport. Approx. one hour transfer. Lunch on your own (not included).
After checking in to the hotel, you have the opportunity to pick up your rental bike for adjustments and fitting.
Group dinner at the hotel (included). Right after dinner, we will gather to go through the week's program.
The first day we plan an easy warm-up ride of approx. 70 km / 900 meters of elevation gain.
The route goes north along the coast. We visit Calpe before cycling slightly inland towards Xalo - and then heading home to the hotel.
For those who wish, there is an option to cycle over Puerto Bernia. (extra approx. 25 km / approx. 1000 meters of elevation gain).
Breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet at the hotel (included). Any meals we eat outside the hotel are not included.
[elevation]Approx. 900 m
Today we choose an inland route, on some fantastic cycling roads with limited traffic.
Great climbs up to Tarbena, and then further into the mountain landscape towards the small town of Castell de Castells, where we get a wonderful descent towards Parcent.
From here we can choose to head directly back to the hotel, or if we want to climb the legendary Col de Rates. Perhaps one of the cycling world's most famous climbs.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet at the hotel (included). Any meals we eat outside the hotel are not included.
[elevation]Approx. 1320 m
Today's main goal is to cycle over Puerto Tudons and Puerto Confrides. Perhaps the longest climb in the area. Many kilometers up the valley but also approx. 40 km downhill back to the coast. Wonderful climbing and magical descents.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet at the hotel (included). Any meals we eat outside the hotel are not included.
[elevation]Approx. 1700 m
After four days where most of the stages take place in the mountains, today we cycle along the coast southwards towards Villajoyosa. A beautiful and colorful little beach town, perfect for a coffee break on the beach.
From here we then cycle inland, up towards Finestrat before cycling back to Altea.
For those who want more kilometers, there will be several opportunities along the way to extend the ride with an extra loop. We will assess the group and split up in Finestrat if needed. Many options!
Breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet at the hotel (included). Any meals we eat outside the hotel are not included.
[elevation]Approx. 500 m
This will likely be the longest, but perhaps also the most spectacular ride of the week: we are going to cycle Vall d'Ebo. Another classic climb that has been featured in many major races in the past.
A rolling route, with magical views all the way up to the highest point of Vall d'Ebo (394 m above sea level).
Along the way we can choose whether we also take on the climb up Coll de Rates, or if we opt for the easiest way back to Altea.
On this day, we expect to have lunch along the route (not included).
Breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet at the hotel (included). Any meals we eat outside the hotel are not included.
[elevation]Approx. 2200 m
This day we choose a route based on preferences and energy levels. Some will certainly want a long ride inland to gather many kilometers and great cycling experiences, while others might prefer a shorter ride to also have time to enjoy some sun/beach.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet at the hotel (included). Any meals we eat outside the hotel are not included.
[elevation]Approx. 300 - 2500 m
Breakfast before departure to the airport for return journey.
Lunch and dinner on your own (not included).
The program is preliminary; changes may occur. Expa Travel reserves the right to make corrections for spelling mistakes, as well as modifications to exchange rates and/or prices.
Our own private transport awaits us at the airport. Approx. one hour transfer. Lunch on your own (not included).
After checking in to the hotel, you have the opportunity to pick up your rental bike for adjustments and fitting.
Group dinner at the hotel (included). Right after dinner, we will gather to go through the week's program.
The first day we plan an easy warm-up ride of approx. 70 km / 900 meters of elevation gain.
The route goes north along the coast. We visit Calpe before cycling slightly inland towards Xalo - and then heading home to the hotel.
For those who wish, there is an option to cycle over Puerto Bernia. (extra approx. 25 km / approx. 1000 meters of elevation gain).
Breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet at the hotel (included). Any meals we eat outside the hotel are not included.
[elevation]Approx. 900 m
Today we choose an inland route, on some fantastic cycling roads with limited traffic.
Great climbs up to Tarbena, and then further into the mountain landscape towards the small town of Castell de Castells, where we get a wonderful descent towards Parcent.
From here we can choose to head directly back to the hotel, or if we want to climb the legendary Col de Rates. Perhaps one of the cycling world's most famous climbs.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet at the hotel (included). Any meals we eat outside the hotel are not included.
[elevation]Approx. 1320 m
Today's main goal is to cycle over Puerto Tudons and Puerto Confrides. Perhaps the longest climb in the area. Many kilometers up the valley but also approx. 40 km downhill back to the coast. Wonderful climbing and magical descents.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet at the hotel (included). Any meals we eat outside the hotel are not included.
[elevation]Approx. 1700 m
After four days where most of the stages take place in the mountains, today we cycle along the coast southwards towards Villajoyosa. A beautiful and colorful little beach town, perfect for a coffee break on the beach.
From here we then cycle inland, up towards Finestrat before cycling back to Altea.
For those who want more kilometers, there will be several opportunities along the way to extend the ride with an extra loop. We will assess the group and split up in Finestrat if needed. Many options!
Breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet at the hotel (included). Any meals we eat outside the hotel are not included.
[elevation]Approx. 500 m
This will likely be the longest, but perhaps also the most spectacular ride of the week: we are going to cycle Vall d'Ebo. Another classic climb that has been featured in many major races in the past.
A rolling route, with magical views all the way up to the highest point of Vall d'Ebo (394 m above sea level).
Along the way we can choose whether we also take on the climb up Coll de Rates, or if we opt for the easiest way back to Altea.
On this day, we expect to have lunch along the route (not included).
Breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet at the hotel (included). Any meals we eat outside the hotel are not included.
[elevation]Approx. 2200 m
This day we choose a route based on preferences and energy levels. Some will certainly want a long ride inland to gather many kilometers and great cycling experiences, while others might prefer a shorter ride to also have time to enjoy some sun/beach.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet at the hotel (included). Any meals we eat outside the hotel are not included.
[elevation]Approx. 300 - 2500 m
Breakfast before departure to the airport for return journey.
Lunch and dinner on your own (not included).
The program is preliminary; changes may occur. Expa Travel reserves the right to make corrections for spelling mistakes, as well as modifications to exchange rates and/or prices.
Our own private transport awaits us at the airport. Approx. one hour transfer. Lunch on your own (not included).
After checking in to the hotel, you have the opportunity to pick up your rental bike for adjustments and fitting.
Group dinner at the hotel (included). Right after dinner, we will gather to go through the week's program.
The first day we plan an easy warm-up ride of approx. 70 km / 900 meters of elevation gain.
The route goes north along the coast. We visit Calpe before cycling slightly inland towards Xalo - and then heading home to the hotel.
For those who wish, there is an option to cycle over Puerto Bernia. (extra approx. 25 km / approx. 1000 meters of elevation gain).
Breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet at the hotel (included). Any meals we eat outside the hotel are not included.
[elevation]Approx. 900 m
Today we choose an inland route, on some fantastic cycling roads with limited traffic.
Great climbs up to Tarbena, and then further into the mountain landscape towards the small town of Castell de Castells, where we get a wonderful descent towards Parcent.
From here we can choose to head directly back to the hotel, or if we want to climb the legendary Col de Rates. Perhaps one of the cycling world's most famous climbs.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet at the hotel (included). Any meals we eat outside the hotel are not included.
[elevation]Approx. 1320 m
Today's main goal is to cycle over Puerto Tudons and Puerto Confrides. Perhaps the longest climb in the area. Many kilometers up the valley but also approx. 40 km downhill back to the coast. Wonderful climbing and magical descents.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet at the hotel (included). Any meals we eat outside the hotel are not included.
[elevation]Approx. 1700 m
After four days where most of the stages take place in the mountains, today we cycle along the coast southwards towards Villajoyosa. A beautiful and colorful little beach town, perfect for a coffee break on the beach.
From here we then cycle inland, up towards Finestrat before cycling back to Altea.
For those who want more kilometers, there will be several opportunities along the way to extend the ride with an extra loop. We will assess the group and split up in Finestrat if needed. Many options!
Breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet at the hotel (included). Any meals we eat outside the hotel are not included.
[elevation]Approx. 500 m
This will likely be the longest, but perhaps also the most spectacular ride of the week: we are going to cycle Vall d'Ebo. Another classic climb that has been featured in many major races in the past.
A rolling route, with magical views all the way up to the highest point of Vall d'Ebo (394 m above sea level).
Along the way we can choose whether we also take on the climb up Coll de Rates, or if we opt for the easiest way back to Altea.
On this day, we expect to have lunch along the route (not included).
Breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet at the hotel (included). Any meals we eat outside the hotel are not included.
[elevation]Approx. 2200 m
This day we choose a route based on preferences and energy levels. Some will certainly want a long ride inland to gather many kilometers and great cycling experiences, while others might prefer a shorter ride to also have time to enjoy some sun/beach.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet at the hotel (included). Any meals we eat outside the hotel are not included.
[elevation]Approx. 300 - 2500 m
Breakfast before departure to the airport for return journey.
Lunch and dinner on your own (not included).
The program is preliminary; changes may occur. Expa Travel reserves the right to make corrections for spelling mistakes, as well as modifications to exchange rates and/or prices.
Eric is the founder of Expa Travel and has over 25 years of experience in the travel industry, including roles as destination manager for Star Tour and purser for SAS. He has worked all over the world and speaks fluent Italian, English, and Swedish. With his commitment and local knowledge, he creates safe and memorable travel experiences.
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This is only a recommendation – feel free to borrow gear from friends or use what you already have. Look at the list as a starting point, and adapt it to your needs and what you feel you will need on the trip.
This is only a recommendation – feel free to borrow gear from friends or use what you already have. Look at the list as a starting point, and adapt it to your needs and what you feel you will need on the trip.
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