Routes EN

MTB – The Springs of Serra, Sierra Calderona
MTB · SIERRA CALDERONA

MTB – The Springs of Serra (demanding)

A demanding and beautiful 38 km MTB loop in the heart of Sierra Calderona. The route connects historic springs, climbs through rugged forests and includes classic singletrack sections. Technically varied, physically challenging and one of the most scenic rides in the region.

38 km +1,175 m MTB / Gravel 40–45 mm Start: Serra

Route overview

The Fuentes de Serra route links several historic springs — L’Ombria, El Llentiscle, El Poll and La Gota — which were once vital to the traditional water carriers of the region. Expect steep forest climbs, technical singletrack and short connecting stretches of asphalt.

Starting at the Tourist Information Centre in Serra, you ascend towards L’Ombria and Gorrisa, follow sections of the long-distance trail GR-10 and reach some of the finest viewpoints in Sierra Calderona — with sea views on clear days.

MTB – Serra Springs trail, viewpoint Sierra Calderona MTB – Springs of Serra singletrack Sierra Calderona

What to expect

  • A challenging loop with steep climbs, technical segments and fun descents.
  • Historic heritage: traditional springs and routes once used by water carriers.
  • Mountain and sea views — on clear days the Gulf of Valencia is visible.
  • Remote forest tracks and well-marked local MTB sections.
MTB – Mirador de Abella, Sierra Calderona
MTB · SIERRA CALDERONA

MTB – Mirador de Abella (medium)

A popular and more accessible mountain bike circuit that includes the Mirador de l’Abella (Abella Viewpoint). The loop is around 34 kilometers with roughly 500 meters of elevation gain, making it a fantastic choice for riders with good fitness who are looking for a moderate challenge in the Sierra Calderona Natural Park.

34 km +500 m MTB / Gravel 40 mm Start: Bétera

Route overview

This shorter, well-established loop usually starts and finishes in Bétera. From there, you climb gradually on forest tracks towards the Mirador de l’Abella to enjoy wide, panoramic views over the Sierra Calderona. The route avoids the longest and most technical mountain bike itineraries, but still packs in enough climbing and off-road sections to feel like a proper adventure.

The circuit uses a mix of rolling forest roads, rocky doubletrack and smaller trails, with only short stretches of asphalt to connect the off-road sections. It’s a quick yet rewarding immersion into the natural beauty of the Valencian mountains and can typically be completed in under three hours, depending on pace and stops.

MTB trail near Mirador de Abella, Sierra Calderona Forest climb on the Mirador de Abella loop, Sierra Calderona

What to expect

  • A medium-difficulty loop with steady climbing and non-technical but rocky sections.
  • Big open views from the Mirador de l’Abella without committing to long 50+ km routes.
  • Mainly forest tracks and wide trails – ideal for confident MTB riders and solid gravel setups.
  • Easy access by train or car from Valencia to Bétera.
Gravel Route from Bétera to Porta Coeli, Sierra Calderona
GRAVEL · SIERRA CALDERONA

Gravel Route from Bétera to Porta Coeli

A scenic and moderate gravel loop connecting Bétera with the historic Porta Coeli Charterhouse. Covering around 38 km and roughly 430 m of elevation gain, this route offers smooth forest tracks, steady climbs and Mediterranean landscapes — ideal for gravel riders seeking a rewarding half-day adventure.

38 km +430 m Gravel / MTB Start: Bétera

Route overview

The loop begins in Bétera and follows wide, well-maintained forest tracks through the lower, accessible sections of the Sierra Calderona Natural Park. The terrain is generally smooth and fast-rolling, with a series of manageable climbs leading toward the highlight of the route: the magnificent Porta Coeli Charterhouse, an impressive architectural landmark dating back centuries.

Riders enjoy a blend of pine forests, open valleys and scrubland, with flowing gravel sections perfect for maintaining rhythm. This is a versatile route — suitable for intermediate riders, enjoyable year-round and easy to access from Valencia by train or car.

Gravel section approaching Porta Coeli, Sierra Calderona Forest gravel tracks near Bétera, Sierra Calderona

What to expect

  • Smooth, fast gravel tracks through Mediterranean pine forests.
  • Steady, manageable climbs — perfect for an intermediate gravel ride.
  • Historic highlight: the Porta Coeli Charterhouse, a unique architectural landmark.
  • A rewarding and scenic half-day loop suitable for most gravel riders.
Gravel route from Bétera to Font de Potrillos via Náquera, Sierra Calderona
GRAVEL · SIERRA CALDERONA

Gravel Route: Bétera to Font de Potrillos via Náquera

A diverse and engaging gravel circuit that starts in Bétera, climbs into the Sierra Calderona Natural Park to reach the Font de Potrillos, and loops back via the village of Náquera. The ride covers around 39 km with roughly 460 m of elevation gain, offering a great balance of effort, scenery and variety.

39 km +460 m Gravel / MTB Start: Bétera

Route overview

The first part of the loop heads out from Bétera on smooth forest tracks and established gravel roads, gently climbing the lower slopes of the Sierra Calderona. These fast, flowing sections lead to the remote and refreshing Font de Potrillos, a quiet spring surrounded by pines and scrubland.

The return leg offers a different feel, often using quieter rolling roads or less-technical gravel paths that descend towards Náquera before crossing more open terrain back to Bétera. Together, these two halves create a complete gravel experience: firm, fast surfaces, steady climbs to test the legs, and the cultural highlight of passing through a picturesque mountain village that makes it easy to stop for water, coffee or a snack.

Gravel climb with views near Font de Potrillos, Sierra Calderona Gravel track through pine forest on the Bétera–Náquera loop

What to expect

  • Varied loop combining forest tracks, established gravel roads and quieter lanes.
  • Steady, manageable climbs with rewarding views over the lower Calderona ridges.
  • Remote spring at Font de Potrillos plus village atmosphere in Náquera.
  • Ideal half-day gravel ride for riders with solid fitness and basic off-road skills.
Road cycling towards Puerto del Garbí, Sierra Calderona
ROAD · SIERRA CALDERONA

Puerto del Garbí – Balcony of the Calderona

Puerto del Garbí is one of the most spectacular road climbs near Valencia, winding up through the heart of the Sierra Calderona to a panoramic viewpoint over the Mediterranean and the inland mountains. Often combined with the Puerto del Oronet, Garbí is steeper, more dramatic and a true highlight for climbers visiting the region.

Climb ≈ 7–9 km Steep ramps · 8–10% Road bike · Asphalt Viewpoint: Mirador del Garbí

Climb overview

Depending on the chosen approach, the road to Puerto del Garbí usually starts on quiet country lanes before narrowing into a classic Mediterranean mountain road. The gradients are more irregular than on Oronet: gentle sections are broken up by steeper ramps that can touch double digits, especially near the top.

As you climb, the landscape changes from olive groves and low scrub to dense pine forest and rocky outcrops. The final kilometres towards the Mirador del Garbí reward your effort with sweeping views over the Gulf of Valencia, the Serra Calderona ridges and, on clear days, all the way to the distant mountains of Castellón.

Bike on the road near the top of Puerto del Garbí View over Sierra Calderona from the Garbí climb

What to expect

  • Steeper and punchier than Oronet, with changing gradients and short, demanding ramps.
  • Well-paved mountain road with light traffic outside of busy weekend hours.
  • Classic Mediterranean scenery: pine forests, rocky cliffs and wide coastal views.
  • Can be climbed from several sides and easily linked with Puerto del Oronet for a big day out.

Route ideas

  • Valencia → Garbí → Valencia · 70–90 km – approach via Náquera and Serra, return on quiet back roads.
  • Oronet & Garbí combo · 80–100 km – classic loop for strong riders, two major climbs, big-ride feeling.
  • Short local loop from Serra / Náquera · 35–50 km – focus on the climb and the viewpoint, then roll back down.
The Calderona Classic – Chirivilla & Oronet road cycling loop
ROAD · SIERRA CALDERONA

The Calderona Classic: A Two-Pass Challenge (Chirivilla & Oronet)

The Calderona Classic is a revered road-cycling route that begins and ends near Valencia, linking two iconic ascents in the Sierra Calderona Natural Park: Puerto de Chirivilla and Puerto del Oronet. The full loop spans around 80 km with a total elevation gain of roughly 1,000 meters – a balanced test of climbing strength, endurance and descending skill.

≈ 80 km +1,000 m Road / Asphalt Start: Valencia

Route overview

Riders begin on smooth, well-maintained roads before heading into the lower slopes of the Sierra Calderona. The first major ascent, Puerto de Chirivilla, is considered the steeper and more demanding climb, with punchy gradients winding through Mediterranean pine forest.

After a rolling mid-section of quiet backroads, the route leads to the second summit: Puerto del Oronet. Slightly longer and more consistent, Oronet is the classic and most ridden climb in the region, offering rhythm, views and a perfect contrast to Chirivilla.

Road cyclist on ascent of Chirivilla in Sierra Calderona Views from the Calderona Classic two-pass loop

What to expect

  • Two distinct climbs: Chirivilla steeper and punchier, Oronet longer and steady.
  • Smooth asphalt and quiet mountain roads just minutes from Valencia.
  • A true endurance test combining climbs, rolling terrain and fast descents.
  • Immersive views of Mediterranean ridgelines and pine-covered mountains.

Easier option

For riders seeking a shorter day, you can focus solely on Puerto de Chirivilla and loop back directly, skipping the long extension required to incorporate Oronet.

Dmitry Blatov – Valencia Mountain Enthusiasts

Guided by Dmitry Blatov

These routes have been designed together with Dmitry Blatov and can also be fully guided by him. With more than eight years of experience in the Valencia mountains, Dmitry ensures a safe and unforgettable ride.

valenciamountainenthusiasts.com