The best MTB trails around El Ràfol D'Almúnia

The building complex consists of a former Franciscan monastery and the associated church, which is dedicated to the Holy Family. The complex was built towards the end of the 19th century. The church is built in the neo-Gothic style and is characterized by pointed arches, high windows and a striking bell tower. Surrounded by the tranquil landscape of the Marina Alta, the place is today both a religious center and an interesting historical building in the region.

Description The Ermita de la Sangre in Murla is a small church located in the heart of the town. Behind its walls lies a long history. The building's history stretches from the Middle Ages to the present day, resulting in various uses and changes to its appearance. The Ermita de la Sangre in Murla was restored in 1979. It is a semi-detached building with a vaulted ceiling and two transverse arches, above which, from the altar, stands the image of Ecce Homo. To one side is the old Chapel of San Francisco de Borja, which has housed the image of the town's patron saint, the Divine Aurora, since 1856. History The Ermita de la Sangre in Murla has a centuries-old history. Although the exact date of its construction is unknown, all indications point to around 1591. The building was formerly the city's old women's hospital, which, like these rooms in the Middle Ages, was converted into a hermitage invoking the Blood of Christ. However, it had been used as a prison long before that. In 1600, the prison was located within the hospital, but the diocese at the time decided to separate them. Documents indicate that the old prison was located where the image of the divine Aurora is currently situated.

The Església Parroquial de l’Assumpció de Nostra Senyora in Pego is considered the city's most important Catholic church. Its construction began in 1599 on the ruins of an earlier church, which itself had been built on the site of a former mosque. Completion continued into the late 17th century, while the distinctive bell tower was added between 1700 and 1725. Stylistically, the church combines elements of Gothic and Renaissance architecture, representing the so-called "Gótico-Renaissance" style. Inside, one finds significant works of art, such as the 14th-century Double Veronica, the 15th-century altarpiece of the "Mare de Déu de l’Esperança," and a processional cross from the same period. After the Spanish Civil War, frescoes and paintings were restored, including works by the Valencian artist Rafael Cardells. Historically, the church served as the center of the archpresbytery of the region and is today an outstanding testament to the religious and artistic history of Pegos.

The Portal de Sala is located in the town of Pego and is the only fully preserved of the three original entrances to the town's medieval fortifications. Situated on Calle Sant Domènec, the gate once served to provide daytime access to the fields and gardens outside the town and to protect the inhabitants from attack at night. Attached to the portal is a square tower, one of the few remaining towers of the original sixteen town fortifications. The Portal de Sala is now an important historical monument and a testament to Pego's medieval urban architecture.

Just off the road between Sagra and Pego, the small turnoff toward Vall d’Ebo leads into one of the most beautiful and tranquil climbs in the Costa Blanca mountains. It may not be famous outside of cycling circles — but pros know it well: Tadej Pogačar holds the Strava KOM on this climb. From the Pego side, the ascent runs for about 8 km, gaining 400 metres at a steady average of 5%. The road is smooth, quiet, and beautifully engineered — with a flowing rhythm and wide, elegant curves. The landscape is peaceful and wild, with cliffs, pines, and far-reaching views. At the top, just before you descend into Vall d’Ebo, you’re rewarded with a spectacular view in both directions: looking back, the coastline and the Mediterranean Sea; looking ahead, the lush green valley of Vall d’Ebo, framed by rugged ridges and rocky outcrops. It’s a rare and stunning double panorama. If you continue past the village, you can create a magnificent loop via Pla de Petracos, riding through remote canyons and ancient rock formations before descending into Benigembla and back to the Vall de Pop. If you're riding from Vall d’Ebo toward Pego, the climb is shorter — about 3 km at 6% — but still very scenic, especially as you rise above the valley with dramatic views behind you. Vall d’Ebo may be quiet, but it’s world-class: pure road, total calm, and the kind of climb you’ll want to ride again and again.

short videos about hiking and cycling in area around Coll de Rates could be found on my YouTUBE Channel under following links: - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RiUgVTg041U (cycling) -https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kfHMhDC-C0U (hiking)

short videos about hiking and cycling in area around Coll de Rates could be found on my YouTUBE Channel under following links: - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RiUgVTg041U (cycling) -https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kfHMhDC-C0U (hiking)

Nice climb on a quiet road.