Top 15 Mountain Passes around Xaló

At this point, it's as "secret" as the Secreto Ibérico (spoiler alert: post-Pogi, everyone knows it's there and wants to do it). Needless to say, it's HARD as few things are, but enjoyable, and you can climb without any rush at your own pace. The views are magnificent on each side/valley. It reaches its peak a few meters past the forest hut. Add to that, it's worth continuing along the trail (bike on shoulder) to the top of Carrascal for even more epic views.

Tough but with magnificent views. Relatively quiet road.

The Puerto de Sorell is a quiet and under-the-radar ridge climb in the northern Costa Blanca, linking Pego and Ràfol d’Almúnia via the CV‑728. It’s not long, not high — but it’s a perfect connector on a peaceful inland loop. From Ràfol d’Almúnia, the climb is 2.7 km long at an average gradient of 3.1%. It’s a smooth, steady ascent through olive groves and farmland, ideal for keeping a light rhythm and soaking up the rural scenery. The road surface is good and traffic is almost nonexistent. From the Pego side, the climb is roughly the same length but considerably steeper, with sections reaching 6 to 8%. It’s a short but honest effort, and a nice little test when coming up from the coastal plain. The views are wide and open — toward the Segària range, the valley below, and even the sea in the distance. At the summit, you'll spot the blue "Puerto de Sorell – 170 m" sign, a modest but official col marker that makes the climb feel just a bit more special. From here, you can descend either way or continue inland toward Vall de Gallinera, Vall d’Ebo, or Coll de Rates. Puerto de Sorell is a local favourite: short, scenic, quiet — and perfect for linking bigger climbs on a longer ride.

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.

The road from Pego to Sagra is a hidden gem for cyclists. With almost no traffic, it winds gently upward through shaded sections and rolling gradients — never too steep, but always engaging. Perfect for finding rhythm after the descent from Port de Sorell, this stretch offers a rare mix of quiet, flow, and relief from the sun on hot days.

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

Coll de Rates PLUS: after the moderate ascent to coll de rates pass, this extra climb offers incredible views to both valleys North and South and until the sea. You. It goes about 3km and 400hm with up to 12% up. The steep parts alternate with flat(ter) parts to catch some breath. its a clear challenge for body and mind. Tedej Pogačar went up here on on Jan 1st 2022 and is still under the Top 5. #worththe effort