The Mediterranean climate makes for year-round cycling here, with mild, dry winters and warm summers. The roads are quiet; take a route inland and you'll soon see more cyclists than cars around you. Especially in winter, it is a big cycling mecca here, which makes the atmosphere cosy. You literally imagine yourself among the pro riders, whom you will regularly encounter during your ride. Of course, that gives a good dose of inspiration and motivation for your own training goals!

Motorists are used to cyclists and consider this, making cycling in this region feel safe.

In the north of the Valencia region, you will find Castellón, a province known for its mountainous terrain and spectacular views. Here lie challenging climbs such as the Desierto de las Palmas and the Pico Penyagolosa. Narrow, quiet roads wind through pine forests and past small, historic villages. For gravel riders, there are plenty of dirt tracks through the rugged interior.

Want to combine your cycling trip with a city trip? From the city of Valencia you can easily explore the coastline or dive inland. The Sierra Calderona, just a short bike ride from the city, offers challenging climbs and off-road trails for gravel riders. The quiet roads through orange groves and along the Turia river are ideal for giving the legs a rest. The city itself is buzzing with culture. Stop here at a cosy cafe for a cortado and sample the famous paella as a reward after a day of cycling.

To the south lies Alicante, a region known for its sunny climate and varied landscapes. This is the region where many cyclists head in winter. Here you will find a mix of mountainous areas such as the Sierra de Aitana and flat routes along the Mediterranean. Gravel riders can indulge here with a network of dirt roads through vineyards, olive groves and traditional Spanish villages. The quiet coastal roads offer more relaxed routes overlooking the beautiful blue sea.

The best period for a cycling holiday in Valencia is spring (March to May) and autumn (September to October). During these months you will enjoy pleasant temperatures between 15 and 25 degrees. you can be sure during this period that the temperature is pleasant and that all the peaks are passable, even deeper inland.

Winter is a lot cooler, which can make cycling in the north of the Valencia region uncomfortable. Fortunately, the Costa Blanca is just a bit warmer and sunnier during that period; a perfect and popular winter destination for cyclists to train.

In summer, temperatures in Valencia average between 25°C and 30°C, with peaks of up to 35°C or higher during heatwaves. Thanks to its location on the Mediterranean, there is often a refreshing sea breeze, especially along the coast. Inland, however, it can get considerably hotter, especially in the afternoon. So head out early in the morning and - like the Spanish - enjoy a good siesta in the afternoon.

Looking for fine, personal accommodation like a B&B? Bed & Breakfast Buena Idea is run by the hospitable Hans and Jolanda. The B&B is located in an authentic finca just outside Xaló in the Jalon Valley. This B&B offers seven double rooms, a conservatory for breakfast or relaxation, and bike storage is available. Ideal for cyclists who want to stay on the Costa Blanca! Read about our experience at Buena Idea here.

Prefer a hotel? Then you have plenty of Bike Friendly hotels to choose from. For example, near Valencia you have the Olympia Hotel and on the Costa Blanca, in Altea you can visit Hotel Cap Negret. In winter, many cyclists with groups also book houses. By the way, these are quite affordable in winter, especially with a group.