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Landscape of Spanish, tree covered hills

CALPE RIDE GUIDE

Calpe. Arguably the best place to cycle from November through to February. Sunny skies, pleasant climbs and over half the pro peloton. I could go on and on about the picturesque countryside, the good company and the quaint coffee spots where you may or may not spot a world champion, but this ride guide is about a classic route which anyone who visits Calpe should do.It’s 8:15am on day 6 of 7, and I am sitting at the table opposite my flat mate Alex with my second cup of coffee and bowl of porridge. Both of us wishing we were still in bed, but needs must, with 6 hours of riding and 2800m of climbing ahead of us. Today is the day we climb Tudons. 

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Ride on 17/12/24, 151.3km route with 2,834m total elevation on a partly cloudy day

ROUTE DESCRIPTION

The route starts from Calp along the coast road to Altea before proceeding inland, climbing steadily through rolling hills and villages before reaching the foot of my personal highlight of the ride; the ascent of Tudons. A renowned climb with challenging gradients and rewarding views at the summit. The elevation profile is strong, it’s a steady climb to over 1,000 metres, with the toughest gradients in the midsection and twisty hairpins near the top. The warmth of the sun was greatly appreciated with a pleasant 16 degrees at the top.

The descent is fast and technical; it’s a lot of fun but does requiring focus as you navigate through sharp turns, marking the start of the return leg back towards the coast, these are rolling roads with picturesque views which slowly sap away at your legs if you aren’t topping up your energy stores. You wind your way along these for roads for 40k until you hit the bottom of the famous Col d’ Rates.  

Map of circular route

The steady but consistent gradient allows you to dictate the pain level before you make the sweeping but short descent down the other side towards Callosa D’en Sarria, a sleepy town on the edge of the mountains and final stopping opportunity before final stint into Calpe.  

Today’s choice of stop was a Supermercardo supermarket just off the main roundabout in town. Pitstop etiquette was observed as we quickly rummaged through the store, helmets strictly staying on. I emerge with a bottle of full fat coke, an Aquarius (the cloudy version, which is the best flavour) and 3 sugar doughnuts which was a bargain at €3.90. Alex went for a Ham and cheese croissant and an orange juice.

The quiet rumblings of this town where abruptly interrupted by sound of a slippery dutchman ending his perfect cx dismount on his back due to some polished tiles outside the store, much to the amusement of his riding mates. With energy levels restored we cracked on with the final few ks back into town down the coast road as the sun was gently descending. Not a bad way to finish such a spectacular ride. 

Two images, roadsign to Alcoleja and drinks and snacks
The day in numbers: 5:56 hours moving, 79km/h max speed and 25km/h average speed
Food consumed: bars, gels, electrolytes, doughnuts and coke

The classic Tudons loop is a ride that combines physical challenge with the beauty of Alicante’s landscapes. The effort put into the climbs is rewarded with stunning views and an exhilarating descent, making it an unforgettable cycling experience. Whether you’re training for an event or exploring Spain’s cycling culture, this route is sure to impress. Enjoy the ride! 

Looking down over a town amongst hills in evening light

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