The best cycling routes around La Vall D'Ebo

not meant to be drinking water.

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.

sandwich with the Alkmaar tour club

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.

The road from Pego to Sagra is a hidden gem for cyclists. With almost no traffic, it winds gently upward through shaded sections and rolling gradients — never too steep, but always engaging. Perfect for finding rhythm after the descent from Port de Sorell, this stretch offers a rare mix of quiet, flow, and relief from the sun on hot days.

Komoot Tip: Velosol Cycling Bar in Jalón – a favorite stop for Evenepoel and Van der Poel Tucked away in the cycling paradise of Jalón, beneath the Bernia and close to the legendary climb of Coll de Rates, Velosol Cycling Bar is a must-stop for any rider on the Costa Blanca. Run by a friendly Belgian couple, this cozy spot is a true hub for cyclists — including pros like Remco Evenepoel and Mathieu van der Poel, who often swing by for a well-earned coffee ☕ or one of their famous pancakes 🥞.

Tip for fellow cyclists: Velosol isn’t just a great cycling café – they also have a well-equipped bike shop and workshop with top-notch service and real expertise. Our road bikes are always happy to stay there for a little pampering, whether it’s getting fresh tires or sparkling clean drivetrains!

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)