3 Days in Valencia: An Unforgettable Spanish Adventure
Treat yourself to a short trip to the trendiest European city of Valencia; mixing history with contemporary culture!
With its mild climate and flat terrain, Valencia is the perfect destination for a cycling adventure. Whether you're an experienced cyclist or a leisurely rider, there's a route in Valencia that's perfect for you.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll take you through the best cycling routes in Valencia, from scenic coastal paths to historic city streets. We'll provide practical information on bike rentals, safety considerations, and recommended accommodations and dining options. And we'll include local insights and insider tips to help you get the most out of your cycling adventure in Valencia.
Before we dive into the routes, let's cover some basic information to help you plan your trip. Valencia has a well-developed cycling infrastructure, with dedicated bike lanes and paths throughout the city. The city also has a bike sharing program, Valenbisi, which allows visitors to rent bikes at stations throughout the city.
When it comes to safety, it's important to always wear a helmet and use lights when cycling at night. Be aware of traffic and always follow the rules of the road. And, of course, don't forget to bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as Valencia can get quite hot in the summer months.
Now that you're ready to hit the road, let's take a look at some of the best cycling routes in Valencia.
Scenic Coastal Routes
Valencia's location on the Mediterranean Sea means that there are plenty of scenic coastal routes for cyclists to explore. Here are a few of the best:
La Malvarrosa Beach to El Saler Beach
This scenic route takes cyclists along Valencia's stunning coastline, with views of the Mediterranean Sea and plenty of opportunities to stop for a swim. The route starts at La Malvarrosa Beach and heads south towards El Saler Beach, passing through the Albufera Natural Park. The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including flamingos and herons.
The Valencia Coastal Path
The Valencia Coastal Path is a dedicated cycling and walking path that stretches along the coastline for 25 kilometers. The path starts at the port of Valencia and heads south towards the town of Cullera. Along the way, cyclists will pass through the charming beach towns of El Perellonet, El Palmar, and Mareny Blau.
Albufera Nature Park
The Albufera Nature Park is a wetland area located just south of Valencia. The park is home to a variety of plant and animal species, as well as a number of cycling routes. Cyclists can explore the park on their own, or join a guided tour to learn more about the history and ecology of the area.
Historic City Streets
Valencia's historic center is a labyrinth of winding streets, plazas, and grand monuments. While these streets can be crowded and busy, they are also perfect for a leisurely bike ride. Here are a few routes to explore:
The Turia Gardens
The Turia Gardens is a 9-kilometer park that stretches through the heart of Valencia. The park was built on the site of a former riverbed, and features gardens, fountains, and sculptures. The park is perfect for a relaxing bike ride, with plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy the scenery.
The City of Arts and Sciences
The City of Arts and Sciences is a stunning complex of futuristic buildings designed by the renowned architect Santiago Calatrava. The complex is located at the end of the Turia Gardens and is easily accessible by bike. Cyclists can explore the complex's museums, theaters, and aquarium, and enjoy stunning views of the park and the city.
The Old City
Valencia's Old City is a maze of narrow streets, historic buildings, and charming plazas. While the streets can be busy and crowded, they are also perfect for a leisurely bike ride. Cyclists can explore the city's many landmarks, including the Cathedral of Valencia, the Central Market, and the Plaza de la Reina.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Routes
For those looking for a more unique cycling experience in Valencia, there are plenty of off-the-beaten-path routes to explore. Here are a few options:
El Garbí
El Garbí is a mountain peak located just outside of Valencia, and it offers a challenging and rewarding cycling experience. The route to El Garbí is about 70 kilometers round-trip and includes steep inclines and beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
Benicassim Beach
Benicassim is a charming beach town located about 90 kilometers north of Valencia. The route to Benicassim takes cyclists along the coast, passing through small villages and beautiful natural scenery. Once in Benicassim, cyclists can relax on the beach or explore the town's many attractions.
La Sierra Calderona
La Sierra Calderona is a natural park located about 30 kilometers north of Valencia. The park features a variety of cycling routes, from easy paths through forests to challenging climbs up steep hills. The park is also home to a number of historic landmarks, including castles and watchtowers.
Cycling Through Valencia's Wine Country
Valencia is home to a number of wineries and vineyards, and cycling through the region's wine country is a unique and unforgettable experience. Here are a few routes to explore:
Utiel-Requena Wine Route
The Utiel-Requena Wine Route takes cyclists through the vineyards and wineries of the Utiel-Requena region, located about 80 kilometers west of Valencia. The route is about 40 kilometers round-trip and includes beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
Serra Grossa Vineyard Route
The Serra Grossa Vineyard Route takes cyclists through the vineyards of the Serra Grossa region, located just outside of Valencia. The route is about 20 kilometers round-trip and includes stops at local wineries for tastings and tours.
The Moscatel Wine Route
The Moscatel Wine Route takes cyclists through the vineyards and wineries of the Marina Alta region, located about 100 kilometers south of Valencia. The route is about 40 kilometers round-trip and includes stops at local wineries and charming towns along the way. VI. Practical Information
Before you hit the road on your cycling adventure in Valencia, it's important to have some practical information at your fingertips. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Bike Rentals and tours
There are a number of bike rental shops in Valencia, including Valenbisi, the city's bike sharing program. Many shops offer a variety of bikes to choose from, including road bikes, mountain bikes, and electric bikes. Prices range from around €10-€20 per day. You can also go on a biking tour around Valencia, where a local guide will take you through the best of what to see in the city - all on your own bike! It’s easy to book here, for either solo travellers or group travels to experience Valencia in a fun, local way.
Safety Considerations
When cycling in Valencia, it's important to always wear a helmet and use lights when cycling at night. Be aware of traffic and always follow the rules of the road. And don't forget to bring plenty of water and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
Recommended Accommodations and Dining Options
Valencia has a variety of accommodations and dining options that cater to cyclists. Many hotels and guesthouses offer bike storage and maintenance facilities, and some even provide guided cycling tours. Valencia is also home to a number of excellent restaurants and cafes, serving up everything from traditional Spanish cuisine to international fare.
Some recommended accommodations for cyclists include the Ad Hoc Monumental Hotel, which offers bike rental and storage facilities, and the Casual Valencia Vintage Hotel, which provides guided cycling tours. For dining, be sure to check out La Mas Bonita, a popular cafe that offers healthy breakfast and lunch options, and El Huerto, a vegan and vegetarian restaurant located in the heart of Valencia.
Valencia is a beautiful and exciting city to explore by bike, with a variety of routes and experiences to suit every type of cyclist. Whether you're looking for a leisurely ride along the coast, a challenging climb up a mountain peak, or a unique wine-tasting experience, Valencia has something for you. With the practical information and local insights provided in this guide, you're sure to have an unforgettable cycling adventure in Valencia. So what are you waiting for? Grab a bike and hit the road!
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