Cycling in Spain: Discovering the Coast between Barcelona and Valencia

For a significant chunk of British tourists, Spain is the summer holiday destination of choice. With a combination of sunshine, great food, and a wealth of culture and history, it ticks an array of boxes.

In particular, a city break in Spain might appeal. You might see Barcelona, and its inimitable Basílica de la Sagrada Família. On the other hand, you might take a trip to Valencia, and La Lonja de la Seda.

But you needn’t choose between these two locations. If you’ve got a little bit of cycling experience, then you might see both – along with all of the wonderful attractions and distractions along the intervening coastline.

Cycling holidays offer a chance to see the country in a way that other tourists could scarcely imagine. At the same time, you’ll be keeping yourself in good shape, and building up your appetite for a big dinner in a seaside restaurant.

This little stretch of the coast is among the best cycling routes that the country has to offer. Let’s take a look at what’s waiting to be discovered along the way.

Sitges

Just thirty minutes south of Barcelona, this little seaside town offers an impressive beach and a legendary nightlife. Here, you’ll get an opportunity to sample some quality, authentic Spanish seafood. There are also plenty of great museums and art galleries to uncover, as well as theaters, cinemas and outdoor events. If you head here at the right time, you might also enjoy a carnival or a film festival. Plan your adventure accordingly!

Sant Carles de la Rapita

You’ll find this fishing town nestled between the mountains and the sea, on the fringes of the Delta de l’Ebre. It’s the largest natural harbour anywhere on the continent, and its linked to the Delta itself via a long sandbar, Trabucador Isthmus, whose location is constantly shifting. This is a place that’s perfect if you’re looking to unwind and take it easy, perhaps after a long bike ride. There are little towers dotted along the sandbar, which are perfect for birdwatching. If you visit between July and September, then you might be able to enter on foot.

Alcocéber

Mediterranean tourist spots don’t get much better than this little corner of the Sierra de Irta Natural Park. Whether you’re looking for fun, sundrenched beaches, or a secluded little cove, there’s something to discover and enjoy here. Of particular interest to history aficionados is Xivert Castle, which sits atop the Sierra. It was built by Muslims in the 10th and 11th centuries, and later repurposed by Christians. Later, a lookout tower was built, right out by the sea. You can visit this, too: it’s called the Ebrí Tower.