The best traffic-free bike rides in Sierra Mariola

The Church (Hermitage) of Santa Eulalia, located in the Santa Eulalia Colony, between Sax and Villena (Alicante, Alto Vinalopó). It forms part of an agricultural colony built in the late 19th century, declared a Site of Cultural Interest (ethnological) in 2016. It is situated in an area between Sax and Villena, near the Acequia del Rey irrigation canal and the Vinalopó River. The hermitage is located in one of the colony's two main squares, surrounded by houses, factories (flour and alcohol), a theater, a casino, and a train station. The current hermitage was built in 1891, on the site of an earlier medieval one, commissioned by the Count of Alcudia (Antonio de Padúa Saavedra). It is a simple rectangular building with a double-arched bell gable built around 1900; each arch housed bells on its lower level.

The Ermita de San Blas in Sax is a small, historic chapel located in the heart of the old town, directly below the castle. It was probably built in the 13th or 14th century and is one of the typical "Ermitas de Reconquista" (reconquest hermitages) built after the Christian reconquest. The building has a simple rectangular floor plan with a later addition of a semicircular chancel and a baroque bell tower above the entrance. The statue of Saint Blas, the patron saint of the town, is venerated inside. The chapel continues to play a central role in the religious and cultural life of Sax. Of particular importance is the annual "Cabildo de San Blas" on December 26th, a traditional gathering that marks the beginning of the patron saint's festivities. In addition, masses are regularly held in honor of the saint. With its historic architecture and picturesque location below the castle, the Ermita de San Blas is an important symbol of Sax's identity and a worthwhile destination for visitors interested in culture.

Having lunch at the La Oliva bar in Beniarrés at the foot of the Benicadell is an experience that is nothing short of mystical. Here, breakfast is a religion.

good road, little traffic

After arriving a lorxa castle keep going do not turn left after 2km and cross the main road and head down to the river. There is NO bridge to cross a very deep river 26/3/25. Instead keep going along the top rural road till you meet the main road cross it directly drop left down the rural road and shoot through the long tunnel, arriving at village, then several options to get to the lake.

There are several points along this route from which you can admire the impressive silhouette of the Benicadell massif. The Alt de Benicadell, with a height of 1,105 metres, is a prominent peak in the Sierra de Benicadell, which forms a natural border between the provinces of Valencia and Alicante. The region around the Benicadell offers numerous opportunities for cycling tours that lead through varied landscapes with impressive views.

From here you can see the imposing Benicadell massif, made up of spectacular rock cliffs that rise above the Mediterranean landscape.

Spectacular view over the reservoir. Just take a short break, capture the perspectives and enjoy the great impressions. Top location!