The best traffic-free bike rides around Benimantell

Sella is a picturesque mountain village nestled in the southern Sierra de Aitana. It is distinguished by its impressive mountain scenery and is a popular destination for cyclists. The surrounding area is particularly appealing, with its striking limestone formations of the Aitana Mountains, as is the popular Ruta del Agua, a scenic route for hikers and cyclists. The village itself retains its authentic Spanish atmosphere with traditional bars, shops, and bakeries, and offers numerous opportunities to experience the region's nature and culture. Furthermore, the Festa Major in October reflects Sella's vibrant cultural life.

Tollos is a peaceful mountain village along the Ruta 99, a scenic route connecting the smallest villages of the Valencian Community. It’s a perfect turnaround point for cyclists riding from Alcalalí or the Vall de Pop. The approach from Fageca offers a quiet, steady climb, mostly shaded in the morning. Tollos itself is small but charming, and cyclists love stopping here for a classic bocadillo at the local bar — simple, delicious and authentic. For those looking to add an extra challenge, you can continue from Tollos to the Muro de Tollos, a steep climb that rewards you with stunning views. From the top, you can descend towards Beniaia, opening up loop options through the Vall d’Alcalà.

Just off the main CV‑720 near Benimassot but still on the roadside, you’ll find a traditional stone fountain serving as a convenient water refill point for cyclists—no detour needed. It offers fresh mountain spring water, ideal for topping up your bottles on a hot ride, adding a simple yet charming break to your journey along this scenic interior valley route.

Ruta 99 – An Ode to Alicante’s Forgotten Villages ⚠️ Ruta 99 is not an official cycling route, but many sections can be explored by road bike or gravel bike. Ideal for cyclists seeking quiet, off-the-beaten-path roads through inland Alicante. Ruta 99 is a circular long-distance hiking route connecting the 24 smallest villages in the province of Alicante — each with fewer than 100 inhabitants. Created by the regional government of Valencia, the route draws attention to the cultural and historical value of these remote communities, and promotes sustainable rural tourism. Whether on foot or by bike, Ruta 99 is a journey into silence, heritage, and raw Mediterranean landscapes. ⸻ 🏞 What to Expect The route weaves through the lesser-known inland regions of Marina Alta, El Comtat, L’Alcoià, and Vall d’Albaida, taking you through rugged mountains, almond groves, and centuries-old villages clinging to the hillsides. Highlights include: • Tollos – with fewer than 40 residents, one of the quietest villages in Spain • Fageca, Benimassot, Famorca, and La Vall d’Alcalà – rich in Moorish heritage • Sempere – the smallest village in the entire Valencian Community • Castell de Castells, Alcoleja, and Quatretondeta – with breathtaking views of the Serrella and Aitana mountain ranges ⸻ 🚶 For Hikers • Total distance: Approx. 450 km, divided into 20 stages • Waymarked: Yes, with distinctive Ruta 99 signage • Passport: Available to collect stamps in each village, similar to the Camino de Santiago • Accommodation: Local guesthouses, small hotels, and rural lodges ⸻ 🚴 For Adventurous Cyclists While Ruta 99 is designed for hiking, many of its paved segments are ideal for road or gravel biking. The route offers: • Quiet roads with almost no traffic • A chance to discover authentic inland villages • A mix of long climbs, rolling hills, and open landscapes Keep in mind: • Services (shops, cafés) are sparse — bring water, snacks, and tools • Some segments are unpaved or in poor condition, so check your route in advance • A gravel bike offers the most flexibility ⸻ 🌿 More Than a Route Ruta 99 is not just a trail — it’s a tribute to resilience, memory, and slow travel. These villages may be small, but they are full of stories. Whether you’re hiking or cycling, you’ll experience a different side of Alicante — one of silence, tradition, and raw natural beauty.

A magnificent view! Steep cliffs and lush vegetation stretch into the distance, while the sun bathes the rugged terrain in a play of light and shadow. The clear blue sky completes the peaceful and majestic atmosphere. A perfect place to enjoy the beauty of Spanish nature.

Slowly and with good handwriting

Quiet road and great places

we have done this section as the last one during our hike in vicinity of Relleu area. Despite the fact that we were very tired, we really enjoyed the view of twilight falling on the city. In general was the great hike!