Framed by the shimmering Mediterranean and backed by rugged coastal cliffs, Javea—Xàbia in Valencian—is more than a sun-soaked paradise on the Costa Blanca. It is a living mosaic of history, nature, and tradition, quietly waiting to be discovered on two wheels.
For those who believe that cycling is not just a sport but a way to intimately connect with a landscape, Javea offers routes that are as rich in cultural depth as they are in scenic splendor. Here, every turn of the pedal is a journey through time, and every climb rewards with vistas—and stories—that linger far beyond the ride itself.
Where History Meets the Handlebars
Riding through Javea is a multidimensional experience. The town’s terrain—gentle countryside roads, shaded pine forests, and coastal cliffs—invites all kinds of cyclists, from seasoned explorers to families in search of gentle weekend outings. But what sets these routes apart is their seamless fusion of natural beauty and historical resonance.
The Route of the Miradores: Clifftop Guardians of the Past
Perhaps the most iconic of Javea’s cycling offerings, the Route of the Miradores charts a 27-kilometer circuit that strings together 13 of the region’s 15 historical viewpoints. Once essential elements of coastal defense, these elevated platforms served as early warning systems during times of maritime conflict, alerting residents to threats long before they made landfall.
Today, they stand as silent sentinels, overlooking a coastline etched with history. From Arenal Beach to Cala Blanca, and onward through Portitxol and the Meseta de la Guardia, the ride is a visual symphony. Riders are treated to uninterrupted views of Cap Prim, Cap Negre, Cap de la Nau, the Montgó Massif, and the forested sanctuary of Granadella.
The moderate-to-high difficulty of the route is softened by the shade of towering pines and the availability of scenic rest areas—ideal for reflection, hydration, or simply marveling at the unfiltered grandeur of the Mediterranean.
The Montgó Route: Through the Heart of a Natural Monument
Dominating the skyline at 753 meters, the Montgó is more than a mountain—it’s a monument to the region’s ecological and cultural wealth. The Montgó Route welcomes cyclists into the national park’s lush interior via forest trails, gentle inclines, and sweeping descents.
Starting again from Arenal Beach, riders ascend gradually toward the Montgó’s foothills. This steady climb is ideal for absorbing the area’s biodiversity—home to over 650 species of flora and countless native animals. Midway, a scenic viewpoint offers a panoramic embrace of both land and sea, before the trail pushes onward toward the summit.
For those seeking a more relaxed experience, an alternative loop around the base of Montgó connects the Port of Javea with Dénia’s harbor. This 26.5-kilometer route, classified as low difficulty, winds through tranquil agricultural zones and characterful villages like Jesús Pobre and La Xara. It’s a celebration of rural heritage, passed down through dry-stone walls, olive groves, and the rhythmic hum of a bike chain.
Tarraula Route: Vineyards, Forests, and a Ride Through Time
History and nature intertwine on the Tarraula Route, a 19-kilometer loop through pine-clad hills and fertile vineyards. The route cuts diagonally across the Javea region and brushes the borders of Benitatxell, offering a meditative ride through one of the most culturally resonant areas in the region.
The ride climbs gently toward Tossal Gros, revealing panoramas punctuated by wildflowers, stone terraces, and age-old paths. The return journey follows the Gorgos River, a peaceful stretch ideal for reflection and easy pedaling.
Divided into three segments of increasing difficulty, the first leg—up to Las Laderas Park—is perfect for families or those new to cycling. The second segment, to Pío Baroja, offers a slightly more challenging terrain, while the full loop becomes a moderate adventure suitable for riders seeking a fulfilling half-day tour.
Port–Cala Blanca Route: A Family-Friendly Passage Through Time
Short, flat, and full of wonder, the Port–Cala Blanca Route is a scenic 11-kilometer journey along the bay of Javea. Ideal for families and leisure cyclists, the route traces the town’s maritime heritage—passing fishing boats at rest, the ancient stone quarries of Les Tosqueres, and fascinating Roman-era relics like Els Banys de la Reina and la Séquia de la Nòria.
What makes this route truly special is its narrative quality: each kilometer tells a story, from seafaring traditions to Roman engineering ingenuity. The route culminates at Cala Blanca, a string of serene beaches where white rocks meet crystalline waters—a perfect spot for a post-ride swim or picnic.
Capsades Forest Route: A Wild Ride for the Experienced
Reserved for seasoned riders, the Capsades Forest Route is a rugged 18.6-kilometer loop that demands both stamina and skill. It begins gently enough, with smooth trails across the Pla region, but quickly morphs into an off-road challenge.
The ascent along Camí de la Sabatera is steep and often requires dismounting. But perseverance is rewarded with thrilling forest descents through the shaded Capsades woodland, where narrow paths and rocky terrain test both balance and courage. The route passes through the quaint village of Rafalet and traces the riverbanks back to the starting point, offering a full-circle adventure steeped in raw natural beauty.
More Than Just a Destination
To cycle in Javea is to experience a deeper kind of travel—one where the landscape speaks and the past whispers at every bend. These routes are not just about kilometers and gradients; they are pathways into a culture shaped by the sea, carved by history, and preserved by the people who call this coastline home.
Whether you’re chasing panoramic thrills, seeking a mindful escape into nature, or introducing your family to the joys of two-wheeled exploration, Javea welcomes you with open roads and open arms.
Ready to ride through history? In Javea, the journey is as enriching as the destination.
