Cycling Private Tour in the Little Venice and Sagunto Castle

If you’re looking for a way to experience Valencia beyond its bustling city center, this cycling tour through Valencia’s North Region offers a wonderful mix of coastal scenery, historic sites, and authentic local flavors. Designed for those who enjoy a relaxed pace and scenic views, this roughly 9-hour adventure takes you through lush farmland, charming villages, and ancient ruins—all on two wheels.

What we love about this experience are two key things: first, the diverse landscape—from beautiful beach promenades to verdant orange groves—and second, the historical richness of sites like Sagunto Castle and El Puig. One potential drawback might be the length—though the ride is mostly flat, a full day on a bike isn’t for everyone, especially if you’re not used to cycling for several hours.

This tour is best suited for moderate fitness level travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, history buffs eager to connect with local heritage, or anyone looking for an authentic, active way to explore outside Valencia’s tourist hotspots.

Key Points

• Diverse landscapes: Beach, farmland, historic towns, and wetlands.
• Historical sites: Sagunto Castle and El Puig offer deep insights into regional history.
• Local flavor: Tasting traditional Horchata and discovering Valencian agriculture.
• Comfort options: E-bikes available for an extra fee.
• Suitable for: Those with average fitness levels comfortable with ~40 km mostly flat cycling.
• Value: Includes bicycle, helmet, lunch, drinks, and private bike transport for a reasonable price.

The Itinerary in Detail

Sagunto Castle: A Walk Through 2,000 Years of History

Our journey begins at Sagunto Castle, a fortress with roots stretching back over two millennia. As you walk around its ramparts, you’ll see the layers of history—from the Iberians and Romans to Islamic and Medieval influences. The panoramic views from the castle are spectacular, offering vistas over the surrounding landscape. Although the ticket is free, the opportunity to stand amid such historical grandeur is priceless.

A review mentions, “We loved the way the castle’s history is layered, and the views are spectacular,” which resonates with how visitors often feel at this ancient site. Expect to spend about an hour here, soaking in the scenery and imagining the centuries of stories told by these stones.

Cycling Between Sagunto and El Puig

Next, we cycle through the picturesque countryside, passing fields of vegetables—including Tigernuts, which are a key ingredient in the local Horchata. The route between Sagunto and El Puig is mainly flat, making it suitable for most riders, and provides a peaceful ride with glimpses of rural life and agriculture.

El Puig: A Historic Town with Panoramic Views

A highlight of the tour is El Puig de Santa Maria, a historic town famous for its battle for Valencia’s reconquest from the Moors. It’s also home to Spanish Civil War bunkers, offering a glimpse into more recent conflicts. The town’s vantage point provides sweeping views of the region, making it a perfect spot for a refreshment break. You’ll have about two hours here, including time for a relaxed lunch in the village, which is a chance to sample local cuisine in a traditional setting.

Riding the Green Ring: Valencia’s North Garden

From El Puig, we hop onto the new bike path called the Green Ring, a dedicated cycling route that takes you through the North Garden of Valencia. Here, you’ll pass through fields of vegetables and Tigernuts, giving you a flavor of the local agricultural landscape. Cycling along this green corridor, you’ll appreciate how well-planned the route is for cyclists, with plenty of scenic spots to stop and appreciate the rural beauty.

Exploring Meliana and the Roman Road

The journey continues through Meliana, where a disused train line has been converted into a greenway—a peaceful corridor for cyclists—passing through olive groves and orange orchards. You’ll also ride along Spain’s Longest Roman Road, a fascinating reminder of the region’s ancient connectivity. This part of the ride offers a quiet, contemplative atmosphere, away from traffic and noise.

Port Saplaya: “Little Venice”

The final major stop is Port Saplaya, often called Little Venice because of its colorful houses lining canals. Here, you’ll cycle along the beach promenade, enjoying views of the Mediterranean and small boats moored outside. The chance to taste Horchata—a sweet, refreshing drink made from Tigernuts—adds a delightful local touch to the ending of the day. Expect to spend about an hour at this charming neighborhood, with time for photos and relaxing by the water.

What’s Included and What to Expect

The tour’s price of around $48 per person offers good value, especially considering the inclusions: a professional bicycle, helmet (if requested in advance), lunch in El Puig, Horchata tasting, a train ticket, and private transport of bikes to the start point. For those who prefer a little extra boost, E-bikes are available at an additional cost of $30—perfect for those concerned about the length or terrain.

The group size is limited to 9, ensuring a more intimate experience with plenty of space to cycle comfortably, chat with guides, and ask questions. The tour lasts about 9 hours, with 4-5 hours of actual cycling, making it suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness who enjoy outdoor activities but don’t want to be overly exhausted.

Practical Considerations

A key factor is the flat terrain, making the route accessible for most riders, including occasional cyclists. The ride covers approximately 40 km, mainly along coastlines and country roads, which adds to the scenic appeal without overly strenuous climbs. The itinerary is flexible enough for some breaks, and the stops at historical and natural sites provide a meaningful context to the ride.

The pickup point at the Bike Well Rental Shop in Valencia is convenient for those staying in or near the city, and the tour begins promptly at 10:00 am. Participants should arrive prepared with comfortable clothing, sun protection, and water. The tour’s non-refundable policy is worth noting, so plan ahead if your schedule might change.

Authentic Experiences and Real Traveler Insights

A reviewer who enjoyed similar bike tours highlighted how well the experience balances fun and exercise while offering opportunities to meet other travelers. They said, “It’s a good mix of fun and exercise while getting to meet other cyclists as well,” echoing what many find appealing about small-group guided rides.

Another traveler appreciated the scenic views, noting that the tour offers “stunning vistas from the castle,” and that cycling through the countryside provides a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle. The combination of history, nature, and local flavors seems to resonate with many, making this tour a well-rounded choice for those interested in authentic regional experiences.

This cycling tour in Valencia’s north offers a well-organized, immersive experience that combines scenic coastal views, lush farmland, and historic sites. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want to see beyond the city’s core, enjoy some light exercise, and indulge in local flavors like Horchata. The inclusion of stops at Sagunto Castle and El Puig adds a layer of cultural depth, while the scenic bike paths and countryside make for a relaxing yet engaging day.

For anyone with average fitness who enjoys outdoor adventures and cultural sites, this tour delivers great value and memorable sights. Its small group size and knowledgeable guides ensure a personal touch, whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply looking to discover Valencia from a different perspective.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the route is mostly flat, covering about 40 km, which is manageable for most people with moderate fitness. The presence of E-bikes at extra cost can help if you want an easier ride.

What’s the starting point?
The tour begins at Bike Well Rental Shop, located at Pg. de l’Albereda, 54, in Valencia. It’s near public transportation, making it easy to access.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee includes a bicycle, helmet (if requested), lunch in El Puig, a taste of authentic Horchata, train tickets, and private bike transportation to the start.

Can I upgrade to an E-bike?
Yes, E-bikes are available for an additional €30 if you contact the provider beforehand.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 9 hours, with 4-5 hours of cycling, plus stops for sightseeing, lunch, and sampling local drinks.

What kind of terrain will I encounter?
Mostly flat routes along coastlines, country roads, and dedicated bike paths, including a converted greenway and scenic rural areas.

Are helmets provided?
Helmets are optional but available if requested in advance; you’ll need to specify your head size.

What if I want to cancel?
The booking is non-refundable and cannot be changed once confirmed, so plan accordingly.

This guided cycling journey through Valencia’s north region offers a satisfying blend of natural beauty, history, and local flavor—all on two wheels. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just in search of a unique way to explore, it’s a memorable adventure waiting to happen.