Valencia, the land of contrasts 8 days
We’ve selected for you, places where you can immerse yourself in culture and history, learn about festivities, religious and secular, have the opportunity to experience a multitude of artesanal traditions, music and customs, explore small rural settlements, enjoy diversity of landscape and, of course, get to know the local people who’ll make your adventure a memorable and fulfilling experience. The journey starts in the Vinalopó River valley, taking in castles and mediaeval towns such as Biar and Bocairent. It’ll guide you through scenic valleys and the foothills of imposing mountains. You’ll be led into the district known as Terres dels Alforins, renowned for its vineyards, and will be able to marvel at the grand homes built by the aristocracy in the 18th Century. Here, you’ll be overwhelmed by stunning landscapes, sometimes referred to as “the Tuscany of Valencia”. And, last but not least, you can savour award-winning local wines and wholesome, traditional foods, many of which are particular to their village, town or district.
Carry on pedalling and you’ll come across towns and villages in the Benicadell valley as you enjoy magnificent views, Roman and Arab remains, archaeological sites, castles, palaces, natural springs, caves and such welcoming local inhabitants that you’ll feel very much at home.
Proceed through the fertile plains of the Vall d’Albaida, on the banks of its rivers, and you can take the stunning gorge road in order to reach the historic and imposing town of Xàtiva.
Enter the lush plain of orange groves and market gardens known as la huerta valenciana. Pedal along the River Xúquer and make your way towards the natural reserve known as the Parque Natural de la Albufera, which is of great ecological importance. Finish your journey in the vibrant city of València and explore the impressive old quarter, with its cathedral and central market – indeed, a cathedral of a market! Not to be missed are the narrow streets and squares that offer a wide variety of cafés, bars and restaurants. Lovers of good food will be delighted by the local fare on offer.
Day 1: Arrival in Biar
Your journey begins in Biar, a charming historic town crowned by its impressive 12th-century castle, a landmark that has witnessed centuries of history.
Take your time exploring the old quarter, wandering through its narrow, winding streets and discovering picturesque squares, historic churches and traditional architecture.
In the evening, enjoy your first taste of Valencian cuisine at one of the town's welcoming bars or restaurants.
Day 2: Biar – Bocairent | 27 / 32 / 46 km
Today's route follows part of a former railway line alongside the River Vinalopó, passing through orchards, peaceful countryside and small villages as you approach Banyeres de Mariola.
From here, you can choose between two routes:
Route 1 – Easier option: Continue along relatively flat terrain, skirting the edge of the Serra de Mariola Natural Park before reaching Bocairent.
Route 2 – Mountain option: Venture further into the Serra de Mariola, climbing into higher terrain and enjoying spectacular views, rich vegetation and the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains.
Both options lead to Bocairent, one of the region's most remarkable medieval towns. Its historic quarter, with narrow streets, traditional stone houses and distinctive architecture, is well worth exploring before settling in for the night.
Day 3: Bocairent – Ontinyent | 15–30 km
After breakfast, continue towards Ontinyent, the capital of the Vall d'Albaida district, known for its historic centre, architectural heritage and lively local atmosphere.
There are two routes to choose from:
Route 1 – Shorter option: Take the most direct route to Ontinyent, leaving plenty of time to explore Bocairent before setting off or to enjoy a relaxed afternoon at your destination.
Route 2 – Scenic option: Follow a longer route through La Valleta d'Agres, cycling past orchards and traditional villages at the foot of the Serra de Mariola. Along the way, discover places such as Alfafara and Agres, each with its own character and rural charm.
Once in Ontinyent, take a stroll through its historic streets and enjoy the local gastronomy at one of its many cafés and restaurants.
Day 4: Ontinyent – Salem | 30 km
Today's ride takes you through peaceful rural landscapes, along quiet country roads surrounded by cereal fields, olive groves and vineyards.
As you approach Fontanars dels Alforins, you'll discover an area renowned for its wine-growing tradition and elegant country estates, some of which have been transformed into wineries. The village also offers opportunities to discover local specialities and artisan products.
The route continues towards the villages around the Benicadell mountain range, where dramatic scenery meets centuries of history.
This area is rich in cultural heritage, from ancient snow wells once used to store ice to historic irrigation systems developed and improved over successive civilisations. Archaeological sites, castles, traditional fountains and caves add further interest to the landscape.
Your day ends in Salem, a peaceful village surrounded by the natural beauty of the Vall d'Albaida.
Day 5: Salem – Xàtiva | 33–40 km
Explore the picturesque villages and rural landscapes of the Vall d'Albaida, a region known for its well-preserved heritage, traditional craftsmanship and local gastronomy.
The route takes you towards the Bellús Reservoir, an area of outstanding natural beauty and ecological interest. Along the way, you'll encounter traces of the region's agricultural history, including old watermills, traditional water-diversion structures known as assuts, and historic irrigation channels.
The fertile surrounding countryside is dotted with orchards and cultivated fields, reflecting the area's long agricultural tradition.
You can choose between two routes:
Route 1 – Shorter option: Head more directly towards the Bellús Reservoir, following a shorter route through the countryside.
Route 2 – Extended option: Explore more of the villages in the Benicadell Valley before continuing towards the reservoir, with the opportunity to enjoy its scenery later in the day.
Your destination is Xàtiva, a historic city famous for its imposing hilltop castle, medieval streets and connections to the influential Borgia family.
Day 6: Xàtiva – Cullera | 55 km
Leaving Xàtiva behind, cycle through the fertile Valencian countryside, where orange groves, orchards and traditional farmland stretch across the landscape.
The region's mild Mediterranean climate has made it particularly well known for its citrus production, and today's route offers a wonderful introduction to its agricultural traditions.
Continue through a picturesque valley along part of an old pilgrimage route linking several monasteries. One of the day's highlights is the impressive Royal Monastery of Santa María de la Valldigna, located in Simat de la Valldigna, an important landmark in the region's religious and architectural history.
As you approach the coast, the scenery gradually changes from orchards to rice fields, before reaching Cullera on the Mediterranean Sea.
Here, you can relax by the beach, enjoy the coastal atmosphere and sample some of the area's famous rice dishes. With its beautiful coastline and mild climate, Cullera is a pleasant destination throughout much of the year.
Day 7: Cullera – València | 46 / 56 km
Your final cycling day takes you from the Mediterranean coast towards the vibrant city of València.
If you choose the longer route, you'll begin by following the banks of the River Xúquer, whose waters have supported the region's fertile agricultural lands for centuries.
Continue towards Albufera Natural Park, one of the Mediterranean's most important wetland ecosystems. This remarkable landscape brings together freshwater lagoons, marshes, rice fields, sand dunes and coastal pine forests, providing habitats for a wide variety of plants and wildlife.
Along the way, consider stopping in El Palmar, a traditional village closely associated with the Albufera and its fishing and rice-growing heritage. It is an excellent place to enjoy authentic Valencian cuisine, particularly the region's famous paella.
As you approach València, the peaceful natural surroundings gradually give way to the energy of the city.
Once you arrive, take time to explore its magnificent historic centre, including the Cathedral, the Central Market and the charming network of narrow streets and lively squares.
With its excellent gastronomy, cultural attractions and vibrant nightlife, València provides a memorable setting for the final evening of your cycling holiday.
Day 8: València — Departure
After breakfast, your cycling holiday comes to an end.
Depending on your travel arrangements, you may have some free time to enjoy València before your departure.
We hope you've enjoyed discovering the remarkable landscapes, historic towns, local traditions and Mediterranean charm of the Valencian Region.
Thank you for travelling with Lazypedals, and have a safe journey home!
This includes
- 7 nights accommodation.
- 7 Breakfasts buffet style or substantial.
- Detailed tour documentation: maps of the tour, route description, points of interest (English, Italian, German, French and Spanish).
- Welcome meeting.
- Local assistance on call.
- Transfer from Villena railway station to Biar.
- Luggage transfer service between your accommodations.
- Travel insurance.
- GPS with the tracks.
PRICES (per person)
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Regular nights |
Price |
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Basic price season 1 (double/twin) |
995 € |
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Basic price season 2 (double/twin) |
1015 € |
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Basic price season 3 (double/twin) |
1060 € |
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Half board X3 |
145 € |
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Surcharge single room |
325 € |
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Bicycle rental |
100 € |
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Electric bike |
290 € |
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Extra nights |
Price |
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Biar double room |
60 € |
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València double room |
80 € |
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Biar surcharge single room |
38 € |
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València surcharge single room |
55 € |
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These include 3*** and 4**** hotels, charming rural houses or farmsteads and high-grade B&Bs.
DATES
The tour is available from 17.01 – 18.12.2027 (except 19.07 – 28.08), with departures on Sundays.
Departures on any day: 17.01 – 17.04 | 20.06 – 18.07 | 07.11 – 18.12
Season 1: 17.01 – 13.03 | 05.12 – 18.12
Season 2: 04.04 – 19.07 | 29.08 – 04.12
Season 3: 14.03 – 03.04
Discounts:
- Children under 5 sharing a room with 2 adults have a discount of 80%.
- Children under 12 sharing a room with 2 adults have a discount of 40%.
- Children under 15 sharing a room with 2 adults have a discount of 25%.
How to fly into València or Alicante
- Countries and cities with flights to Alicante: Click here
- Countries and cities with flights to València: Click here
How to get to Biar (starting point)
We recommend a private taxi transfer from Alicante-Elche Airport (40 minutes).
- If you fly to Alicante:
By train: By train: from Alicante Railway Station to Villena Railway Station (45mins. and 10 € per person), where we will pick you up. You can check the timetables and prices in here.
- If you fly to València:
By train: from València Railway Station (Estació del Nord) to Villena Railway Station, where we will pick you up. (1hr. 15mins. and 15€ per person). You can check the timetables and prices in here.
Hotel la Façana
A country hotel located in the church square. It has a particularly traditional atmosphere. Good restaurant.
Hotel L'Agora
A 3-star hotel located in the town, very close to the old town. It is located in the picturesque town of Bocairent.
Hotel Kazar
An impressive 4-star hotel located in the centre of the capital of the region, Ontinyent. Neo-Mudejar in style and reminiscent of late Valencian modernism, it dates from 1925. It has both a swimming pool and a restaurant.
Granja San Miguel
Excellent rural accommodation located in the municipality of Salem, at the foot of the Benicadell Natural Park. A cosy and peaceful place with a swimming pool and an excellent restaurant.
Casa Aldomar
Lovely rural accommodation to be found in the historic quarter of Xàtiva. From it you can contemplate outstanding views of the castle within its extensive walls.
Hotel El Chalet
A 3-star hotel, located in a tranquil spot beside the beach at Cullera, with a fabulous terrace and sea views. It has a restaurant and swimming pool.
Silken Puerta Valencia
A 4-star hotel located just 10 minutes from the City of Arts and Sciences and only a 20-minute stroll from the old town. It has all amenities, including secure parking for bicycles.
We use hybrid aluminium bicycles very comfortable and reliable. Our bikes are specifically for touring.
Our bicycles have been specially chosen based on our long experience of medium and long distance cycling trips. We use touring bikes, with 28-inch wheels and strong aluminium frames. We aim for maximum comfort and pedalling efficiency to give you the best experience. All bikes are checked every week by our mechanics to ensure optimum performance.
Characteristics
- Good quality components.
- Anti-puncture tires.
- 24 gears.
- Front and rear light with a hub dynamo.
- Comfortable sitting position and adjustable handlebars.
- Bike stand, mudguards and bottle holder.
- Sizes from XS to XL.
Equipment provided
- GPS
- Speedometer
- Rear pannier
- Handlebar bag with map carrier
- Helmet
- Lock
- Pump
- Puncture repair kit
- Multitool set
Touring bike
Touring bike (Unisex)
Electric bikes
W
- Good quality components.
- Mid Motor
- Anti-puncture tires.
- 9 to 12 gears.
- Good quality display (4 levels of power)
- 500 - 625 - 750 Watt. battery (long distances). 80 - 150 km
- Front and rear light.
- Comfortable sitting position and adjustable handlebars.
- Bike stand and mudguards.
