This week is based on the El Comtat holidays we have been running for 13 years. Once out of Cocentaina the roads we use will see very little traffic and are generally in very good condition. There are few flat roads, we will be either climbing or descending most of the time. We have a large library of routes to choose from, from easy and short to very long and challenging. Most of the climbs are well graded, but there are a few steep sections. There are long climbs, but of course that means long descents too with spectacular views. There are nevertheless plenty of opportunities to stop for a coffee and for lunch, with numerous bars along the way. It will be very important that you always have sufficient water, as it may be very warm or even hot. We will tell you where drinking water is available.
We will be staying in a comfortable, cycling friendly guest house Cocentaina, registered with the Valencian Tourist Office, with all amenities nearby.
Price:-
£552 (Single supplement, £70) Two single rooms are available which share a bathroom.
Included:-
7 nights’ accommodation with breakfast and evening meals.
Transfers from and to Alicante airport.
Route sheets, GPS files.
Not included:-
Lunches, drinks and snacks on the rides.
Flights to and from Alicante airport.
Travel Insurance.
Any other personal expenses.
Single occupancy.
Bike hire (if applicable).
Payment:-
Deposit on booking of £50. Balance of £502 (£572 for single occupancy) 10 weeks before the start date.
Cancellations:-
Should you need to cancel your booking you must notify us in writing.
Cancellation charges:-
More than 10 weeks before the start date:- deposit charged.
Once the balance is paid, between 10 weeks and 4 weeks before the start date:- 50% of tour price.
Less than 4 weeks before the start date:- No refund will be made and you will need to make a claim on your cancellation insurance.
It is strongly advised that you obtain trip cancellation insurance.
General Information:-
Terrain and roads. Most of the roads are good quality tarmac. Traffic will be light outside towns, at times almost non-existent. This is a hilly ride, there are no flat sections. Some of the climbs are very long, and some have short steep sections. There are many technical descents, and you should satisfy yourself that you have the skills to deal with these.
Accommodation and meals:-
Accommodation will be in a comfortable guest house. Price is based on two people sharing a room. All breakfasts and evening meals are included. There are numerous bars and restaurants throughout the area where lunch and coffees can be purchased. There are several supermarkets in Cocentaina should you wish to buy provisions.
Travel and transfers:-
Transfers will be arranged as soon as we know numbers and arrival/departure times. Your flight should be scheduled to arrive at Alicante by 16:00 at the latest on the Saturday. If your inward flight is delayed, we will endeavour to collect you when we can, but you may have to wait at the airport.
Weather and clothing:-
Early season dates could see cold weather. You should ensure you have appropriate clothing. It is compulsory to wear a hi-viz jacket in poor visibility, and helmets are compulsory in Spain.
Navigation:-
We will provide maps, route sheets and GPS files. Groups usually meet up at coffee stops, points of interest etc. If you wish to have your own map, the Michelin Zoom Series, number 123, Costa Blanca is usually available at W.H.Smiths etc. in the UK.
Bicycle and equipment:-
Ensure that your bicycle is in good condition, especially tyres and brakes. You should carry spares, a pump and a simple tool kit to cope with punctures and minor repairs. A road bike will be most suitable for this holiday although could be done on a light tourer or hybrid.
Health and insurance:-
As well as an EHIC (or new GHIC) card, you must have travel insurance. It is strongly recommended that you take out insurance on booking your holiday, so that if you need to cancel, you may be able to claim the cancellation charges.
Passports:-
N.B. Since Brexit passport requirements have changed. Please read the following carefully. Your passport must have at least three months to run after the last day of your holiday, excluding extensions, i.e. no more than 9 and 9 months since issue. Ensure that you apply for a new passport, if necessary, in good time.
Brexit:-
If you are a frequent traveller please be aware that UK citizens are now restricted to 90 days in a rolling 180 period in Schengen Zone countries, which includes Spain. Make sure that your visit does not exceed this limit as the penalties can be severe - a fine, deportation or even a ban from entering a Schengen country again! UK passports are now being stamped on the way in and out, or scanned to record your entry and exit dates.