The best road cycling routes around Orba

beautiful views

In the village of Sagra there is a useful water refill point right on the main road. Coming from El Ràfol d’Almúnia it will be on your right-hand side, just at the entrance of the village. There is another fountain on the opposite side of the road, but that one is not filtered, so the main refill point is the recommended stop for cyclists and hikers. It’s an easy and reliable place to top up your bottles before continuing into the Vall de Laguar or towards the Vall de Gallinera.

The Puerto de Sorell is a quiet and under-the-radar ridge climb in the northern Costa Blanca, linking Pego and Ràfol d’Almúnia via the CV‑728. It’s not long, not high — but it’s a perfect connector on a peaceful inland loop. From Ràfol d’Almúnia, the climb is 2.7 km long at an average gradient of 3.1%. It’s a smooth, steady ascent through olive groves and farmland, ideal for keeping a light rhythm and soaking up the rural scenery. The road surface is good and traffic is almost nonexistent. From the Pego side, the climb is roughly the same length but considerably steeper, with sections reaching 6 to 8%. It’s a short but honest effort, and a nice little test when coming up from the coastal plain. The views are wide and open — toward the Segària range, the valley below, and even the sea in the distance. At the summit, you'll spot the blue "Puerto de Sorell – 170 m" sign, a modest but official col marker that makes the climb feel just a bit more special. From here, you can descend either way or continue inland toward Vall de Gallinera, Vall d’Ebo, or Coll de Rates. Puerto de Sorell is a local favourite: short, scenic, quiet — and perfect for linking bigger climbs on a longer ride.

👉 Tip: Alcalalí has a rich history dating back to around 1020, when it was part of the Moorish Kingdom of Dénia. Take a stroll through the narrow streets and discover traces of its medieval past, including the 14th-century tower and the church in the village centre. If you visit in February, the valley around Alcalalí is covered in pink and white almond blossoms — one of the most beautiful sights in the Costa Blanca. Afterwards, stop at one of the local cafés on the village square for a coffee or a snack before continuing your ride.

As you ride from Pedreguer toward Beniarbeig, take a moment to look up — the views of the Sierra de Segària and the surrounding mountains are spectacular. Especially in the morning light, the peaks rise above the orchards and farmland like a natural wall. It’s a tranquil stretch of road with panoramic scenery, perfect for spinning the legs and soaking in the Costa Blanca landscape.

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.

🌄 Viewpoint Tip: Port de Sorell – Overlooking the Marjal & the Mediterranean As you reach the upper slopes of Port de Sorell, don’t forget to look back over your shoulder – the view is worth every pedal stroke. From this quiet inland climb, you get a sweeping panorama over the Parc Natural de la Marjal de Pego-Oliva, a protected wetland area shimmering below. On clear days, your eyes can follow the landscape all the way to the Mediterranean Sea, with the coastline stretching out toward Dénia and Oliva. The contrast between the lush, flat wetland and the rugged inland terrain you're climbing through makes this one of the most rewarding viewpoints on the route – especially in late afternoon light. 📷 Photo tip: Pause just before the top on a left-hand bend – best angle, no cars.

In the center of the little village Benimeli you have a nice water refill point.