가장 멋진 산길 20곳

Tough but with magnificent views. Relatively quiet road.

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If there’s one climb that defines cycling on the Costa Blanca, it’s Coll de Rates. Starting from the village of Parcent, this legendary ascent has become a must-ride for cyclists from around the world — from weekend warriors to Tour de France champions. The climb is just under 7 km long, with an average gradient of around 5%, making it both accessible and rhythmical. The road surface is excellent, the curves are elegant, and the views just keep getting better as you rise above the valley. This is no secret among the pros. Riders from Jumbo-Visma, INEOS, UAE Team Emirates and others regularly use Coll de Rates for winter training. Tadej Pogačar currently holds the Strava KOM, which says a lot about the kind of names that have tested themselves here. On clear days, the view from the top is simply breathtaking — stretching all the way across the coastline, and if you’re lucky, even Ibiza shimmers faintly on the horizon. There’s a café at the summit (seasonal), and the descent toward Tarbena or Castell de Castells is just as rewarding. With its mix of scenery, steady gradients and cycling history, Coll de Rates is one of the most climbed — and most loved — ascents in the world. If you ride only one climb in the region, make it this one.

Tucked away in the mountains between Tàrbena and Castell de Castells, the Puerto de Sa Creueta offers two distinct climbing experiences — and both are worth riding. From Tàrbena, the climb is friendly and scenic. You’ll face about 4 km of steady climbing at around 5%, followed by a rolling 3.5 km section with gentle ups and downs. Just before the top, a short final ramp kicks up sharply to around 12%, but overall this side is rhythmical and not too demanding. The road is wide, smooth and virtually traffic-free, ideal for a relaxed climb. Approaching via the Castell de Castells side, from Tollos or from Benigembla and the Vall de Pop, is a whole different story. After a relatively calm start, the climb hits hard with a 2 km stretch averaging around 10% — sustained, steep, and guaranteed to get your legs burning. This side is definitely more challenging, and a great test for climbers. No matter which direction you choose, you’ll be rewarded with expansive views over the valley near Tàrbena, the rugged peaks of the Marina mountains, and — on a clear day — even the Mediterranean Sea and the skyline of Altea shimmering in the distance. Puerto de Sa Creueta is a hidden gem: peaceful, beautiful and tougher than it looks, especially if you come at it from the inland side. Combine it with Coll de Rates for an unforgettable day in the heart of the Costa Blanca.

A beautiful, long, not-too-steep climb. Nevertheless, you gain over 800 meters in elevation. Quiet roads, hardly any traffic. Very beautiful scenery.

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The Puerto de Confrides is the longest—and one of the highest—climbs in the area, stretching nearly 25 km from base to summit. It's not overly steep, with a moderate average gradient that keeps it rider-friendly, but the real challenge comes from its length. Expect a sustained ascent through pine forests, olive groves, and sweeping valley views. Pace yourself early, stay hydrated, and enjoy the gradual rhythm—this is a true endurance climb that rewards consistent effort rather than explosive power.

The 7.5 km climb to Sa Creueta from the Tàrbena junction is a scenic and steady ascent with an average gradient of 3.5%, ideal as part of a longer route through the Costa Blanca mountains. Most of the climb is gentle, but the final 500 meters kick up steeply, with gradients well over 10% — a real sting in the tail! At the top, there’s no monument or sign — just a quiet mountain road and an incredible reward: panoramic views over the Mediterranean Sea, with Altea, Albir, and Benidorm visible on clear days. It’s one of those peaceful spots that feels like a secret. ⚠️ Be cautious on the descent toward Castell de Castells: several steep, narrow hairpin bends demand full attention. The road surface can be variable, so keep your speed in check and your line smooth.

The Coll de Rates consistently ranks in the top ten of the most ridden mountains every year. Pro riders compete for the best times.

Puerto de Confrides is a very popular route among cyclists on the Costa Blanca, known for its stunning scenery and challenging slopes. This climb is a category 2 climb, with a length of 9 km and an average gradient of 5%. The initial altitude is 550 m and the final 960 m, with a total gradient of 410 m. The last 1.5 km are the most challenging, with an average gradient of over 7%.

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