Cycling Holiday in Benicassim

Upon arrival at Valencia Airport, you will be picked up and transferred to your hotel. We recommend staying near Benicassim, a small but gorgeous town on the coast of Costa del Azahar, famous for its amazing beaches. Here, you have instant access to incredible climbs, as well as a wonderful promenade and nearby restaurants and bars.

Depending on your arrival time, your bikes can be delivered today. Spin out your legs and test your bikes along the Via Verde Del Mar, a converted railway line that takes you to nearby Oropesa del Mar.

Benicassim isn't a favourite of professional teams without reason: today's ride will see you onto the famous Desierto de las Palmas climb (7.8km at 4.5%) mere minutes after leaving your hotel. Upon reaching the summit you'll be treated to magnificent views of the town below as well as being able to glimpse your destination for today, the Sierra de Espadán Natural Park.

After a pedal-free descent, skirt the towns of Castellon and Vila-real before heading towards Onda, a historic village famed for its ceramics. From there, you'll quickly be into the beautiful parkland, home to natural springs, lush ravines, woodlands -- and climbs. Both the Puerto de Almedíjar and Port d'Eslida can be ticked off before you head back down to the coast and enjoy a relaxing last stretch of flat roads as you make your way back to Benicassim via the port of Castellon, an excellent stopping place for fresh seafood.

Today's ride will provide the perfect introduction to the Castelló province: in fact, the roads covered are commonly used as part of the annual Volta a La Comunitat Valenciana stage race. After digesting breakfast, jump on your bikes and head north along the coastline. Enjoy the famous 'miramar' points dotted along the way before you turn westwards inland, and start climbing. Your first challenge will be the Puerto de Cabanes from la Torre de la Sal -- a 9.3km climb that bridges 355 meters of elevation gain (avg. 3.9%), from which you'll soon be able to enjoy incredible views up and down the coastline. After a short valley, then turn your attention towards Sierra Engarcerán -- a small town that lends its name to the mountain range that surrounds it. The road up to where we suggest you make a coffee stop is 8.6km at a steady 4.6%, and with little traffic and well-surfaced, a great place to test your legs. The descent and subsequent flats will see you visit towns typical of the region, such as Vilafames and Borriol, as you wind your way back to Castellon. Enjoy some time in the sauna (or sea!) this afternoon, or visit the bars and restaurants of the town centre for some delicious local fare.

If today is your last day in Benicassim, a transfer will take you back to Valencia Airport. Spend some time off the bike walking the promenade and glimpse the several stunning villas that earn the town its reputation as the “Valencian Biarritz”.

Of course, if you choose to extend your trip, we can provide you with more incredible routes and recommendations. Just let our cycling team know when you enquire.