Alicante: Private Bicycle Tour of the Beach and History

Planning a visit to Alicante and want to experience its stunning coastline alongside a dash of local history? This private bicycle tour offers an engaging way to explore the sunny Costa Blanca, covering San Juan Beach, the historic orchard landscape, and the revered Santa Faz Monastery—all in about two and a half hours. It’s perfect for those who enjoy active sightseeing with a personal touch, especially if you love scenic views, cultural insights, and a relaxed pace.

One of the most appealing aspects of this experience is how it combines natural beauty with stories from Alicante’s past—think orchard towers and religious relics—making it more than just a leisurely bike ride. However, keep in mind that the tour involves some cycling on potentially sunny days, so preparation with sunscreen and comfortable shoes is key.

This experience is well-suited for travelers who want a personalized, insightful look into Alicante’s history and coastal charm, without the rush of larger group tours. It’s a great choice for those who enjoy moderate activity and are comfortable riding a bike. If you’re traveling with children under 7 or have mobility issues, this tour might not be the best fit, but for most others, it offers a wonderful blend of outdoors, history, and local culture.

Key Points

• Scenic Coastal Route: Enjoy beautiful views of San Juan Beach, one of the most popular beaches on the Costa Blanca.
• Cultural Insights: Learn about Alicante’s historic orchards, protected by Torre de Huerta towers, and their significance.
• Religious Landmark: Discover the Santa Faz Monastery and its famous relic, along with its miracles and traditions.
• Flexible Pacing: Ride at your own pace, with stops for photos, sightseeing, and resting.
• All-Inclusive Rental: Bicycle, helmet, and water bottle are provided, simplifying your planning.
• Private Group: Experience personalized attention and a tailored narrative from your guide.

Exploring the Alicante Bicycle Tour in Detail

Starting Point and First Impressions

The tour kicks off at Avenida Holanda, an accessible meeting point in Alicante. From here, the guide—who, based on reviews, is both friendly and knowledgeable—begins with a safety briefing and a quick bike fitting session. You’ll be riding either an urban or mountain bike, depending on your preference, which influences the comfort and suitability for different terrains.

The Ride Along San Juan Beach

The first stretch is along San Juan Beach, known locally as one of the best beaches on the Costa Blanca. We loved the way the route hugs the shoreline, offering plenty of opportunities for photos of the golden sands and turquoise waters. The beach itself is lively but not overwhelming, making it an ideal backdrop for a relaxed ride.

The guide points out landmarks and shares snippets about why this beach remains a favorite among locals and visitors alike, adding context that enhances the visual experience. Expect a ride time of roughly 40 minutes along this stretch, which is perfect for stretching your legs and soaking in the scenery.

Exploring the Historic Orchards

Moving inland, the tour takes you through the orchard area of Alicante, an environment rich in agricultural history. Here, you’ll see the Torre de Huerta towers—small fortress-like structures built to protect the orchards—and learn how they played a vital role in safeguarding local produce.

Many reviews highlight the curious history of these orchards, once vital for Alicante’s economy. We appreciated the storytelling aspect; it’s not just about looking at trees but understanding how they shaped local life. The ride here is gentle, and the guide makes sure to stop periodically, allowing you to appreciate the landscape and ask questions.

The Santa Faz Monastery and Its Relic

The highlight for many is the visit to the Santa Faz Monastery, a religious site famous for housing a relic believed to have miraculous powers. The guide discusses the significance of the relic and shares stories about the miracles associated with it.

Stopping in a cozy square, you’ll have about 20 minutes to take photos, explore the exterior, or just soak in the atmosphere. The monastery’s setting is charming, with a sense of tranquility that contrasts nicely with the lively coast. The review mentions that the guide’s storytelling added depth to this stop, making it more than just a quick visit.

Return Journey and Scenic Descent

After the monastery, the route turns back towards the coast, descending gently along the same or similar roads. This part of the ride is leisurely, allowing you to enjoy the view and reflect on what you’ve learned. The final stretch is a slight descent back to Avenida Holanda, completing the loop.

What’s Included and Practical Tips

The tour fee covers bike rental, a helmet, water (500 ml), and a friendly guide. Remember to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and comfortable shoes. The tour is private, meaning your group size is small—ideal for personalized attention and a more intimate experience.

The activity lasts about 2.5 hours, but timings can vary depending on your pace and the time spent at each stop. It’s scheduled at different times, so check availability when booking. Since the tour may be canceled if the wind exceeds 30 km/h or if it rains, it’s wise to plan for good weather and have a backup plan just in case.

Authentic Insights from Participants

Reviewers consistently mention the friendly guide and their engaging storytelling, which enhances the experience. One noted, “The guide was so knowledgeable, and I loved learning about the orchards’ history while cycling through such a beautiful landscape.” Others appreciated the flexibility, saying, “It felt like a personalized tour, not just a cookie-cutter group activity.”

Some cautioned that cycling on hot days requires sun protection, as the sun can be intense along the coast and in the orchard area. Also, the ride isn’t suitable for children under 7 or people with mobility issues, as it involves some cycling and walking at stops.

Final Thoughts

This private bicycle tour offers a wonderful way to see Alicante with a mix of scenic coastlines, historic farmland, and spiritual landmarks. It balances active exploration with cultural storytelling, making it perfect for travelers who want a more intimate and educational experience without the rush of large tours.

The value lies in the personalized attention, the inclusion of bike gear, and the flexibility to enjoy each stop at your own pace. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking to enjoy Alicante’s outdoors in a relaxed manner, this tour adapts well to different interests.

While it’s not designed for very young children or those with mobility challenges, most active travelers will find this experience rewarding and insightful. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate a balanced mix of physical activity, scenic beauty, and local stories—delivered by a knowledgeable guide in a private setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a guided tour?
Yes, it is led by a live English-speaking guide who provides insights, safety instructions, and storytelling throughout the ride.

How long does the tour last?
The tour duration is approximately 2.5 hours, but the actual time may vary depending on stops and pacing.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers bicycle rental (urban or mountain bikes), a helmet, a water bottle (500 ml), and the guide.

Can I bring my own food or drinks?
While food and beverages are not included, you can bring your own water or snacks if desired. There are no stops specifically for eating during the tour.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 7 or for those who cannot ride a bike. The activity requires a certain level of cycling comfort.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, along with sunscreen and a hat, especially for sunny days.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour may be canceled if the wind exceeds 30 km/h or if it rains. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Avenida Holanda and finishes back at the same location, completing a loop through Alicante’s scenic and historic spots.

Is this tour private?
Yes, it’s designed for private groups, ensuring personalized attention and a tailored experience.

This bike tour is a real find for those wanting a relaxed, authentic look at Alicante’s coast and history—an activity that combines physical activity, cultural insights, and beautiful scenery all in one.