Costa Blanca’s Best Cycling Climbs
Not only is the Costa Blanca popular with many world tour teams, it also features many classic cycling climbs.
While the climbs aren’t as high as those in the Alps or the Pyrenees, Costa Blanca’s smooth tarmac, low traffic and spectacular views make it a top choice for professional teams and amateur riders seeking winter training camps and cycling holidays
Inland of resorts such as Benidorm, Altea and Calpe are a series of low mountains which often feature in the Vuelta a Espana.
Below is our comprehensive guide to the area’s top climbs, including distances, average gradients, elevation gains, and climb profiles.
Col de Rates
The Col de Rates is famed for its steady gradients and smooth switchbacks which are frequented by Grand Tour professionals.
This is one of the most popular climbs in the region and one not to be missed!
- Starting Point: Parcent
- Length: 6.5 KM/ 3.7 Miles
- Elevation Gain: 360m
- Average Gradient: 5.5%
- Max Gradient: 8%
- Altitude at Summit: 625 m
- Road Surface: Excellent
Puerto de Bernia
For those seeking a quieter, more scenic challenge, the Puerto de Bernia climb is a fantastic choice.
This route winds through dramatic limestone cliffs and rugged terrain, offering a truly remote feel. It’s a challenging but rewarding climb with stunning views, perfect for riders looking to escape the crowds.
Length: 9.5 km
Elevation Gain: 620 m
Average Gradient: 6.5%
Max Gradient: 10%
Altitude at Summit: 700m
Road Surface: Good but narrow and remote
Castel de Guadalest
One of the most picturesque cycling routes in Alicante takes you to the stunning hilltop village of Castell de Guadalest.
The climb is steady and scenic, surrounded by dramatic rock formations and citrus groves leading to one of the most Instagrammable spots around.
- Starting Point: Callosa d’en Sarrià
- Length: 6 KM/ 3.5 Miles
- Elevation Gain: 510 m
- Average Gradient: 4.7%
- Max Gradient: 8%
- Altitude at Summit: 650 m
- Road Surface: Excellent
Val d’Ebo
A gentle but scenic ascent through a narrow gorge with sweeping views and little traffic. A local favourite for both training and leisure rides
- Starting Point: Pego
- Length: 8 KM/ 5 Miles
- Elevation Gain: 425 m
- Average Gradient: 5.3%
- Max Gradient: 10%
- Altitude at Summit: 540 m
- Road Surface: Very good
| Climb | Length (km) | Avg Gradient | Elevation Gain (m) | Max Gradient | Altitude (m) |
| Coll de Rates | 6.5 | 5.5% | 360 | 8% | 625 |
| Puerto de Bernia | 9.5 | 6.5% | 620 | 10% | 700 |
| Port de Tudons | 16.3 | 5.2% | 850 | 10% | 1,020 |
| Xorret de Catí | 4.1 | 9% | 370 | 24% | 1,080 |
| Carrasqueta | 11.3 | 5.4% | 610 | 9% | 1,020 |
| Vall d’Ebo | 8.0 | 5.3% | 425 | 10% | 540 |
| Guadalest | 9.0 | 5.6% | 510 | 8% | 650 |
| Puerto de Confrides | 6.8 | 6% | 410 | 9% | 965 |
Plan Your Climb
Most climbs are accessible from popular cycling bases such as Altea, Calpe, Benidorm and Jalón. The variety of terrain makes Costa Blanca perfect for both short hill repeats and long endurance climbs. Many routes can be combined for multi-climb loops – ideal for serious training ride or sportive simulation.