The best traffic-free bike rides around Vilallonga / Villalonga

IF… you are going here, I recommend having something like 50/34 11-34 and disc brakes, there are steep angles up and down. The gravel part is short and on 28 mm road tyres is manageable. And one more, ride only from Lorcha towards Villalonga, otherwise you’ll hate your life.

Forna is a small, very quiet village in the municipality of L’Atzúbia, in the hinterland of the Costa Blanca. It lies nestled in a hilly, Mediterranean landscape characterized by orange groves and unspoiled valleys. With fewer than one hundred inhabitants, the village has an almost familial atmosphere and has retained its traditional, rural character: narrow streets, whitewashed houses, and flowers adorning doorways. Above the village rises the impressive Castillo de Forna, a fortified palace dating from the late Middle Ages. Its towers and walls define the village's appearance and are a reminder of the region's Moorish past. Later, the castle served as a lord's residence and remains a central landmark of Forna. The village's history stretches far back, as the area was already settled during the Islamic period. Even after the resettlement of new inhabitants in the 17th century, Forna remained a small, agricultural village that has preserved its historical structure. Visitors to Forna will experience a tranquil and charming place. The tranquility, the surrounding nature and the immediate proximity to the mountains make it an ideal destination for anyone seeking an authentic atmosphere and historical architecture away from mass tourism.

The Church of Santa María la Mayor in Gandia stands on the site of an earlier 13th-century temple, of which a Gothic chapel and a Mudéjar pointed arch still remain. In the 17th century, the Communion Chapel was added, and an initial remodeling project began, but remained unfinished. The bell tower was completed in 1695. Construction of the current church began in 1705 but was interrupted during the War of the Spanish Succession. In 1754, a large part of the roof, dome, and nave collapsed, necessitating further remodeling. Following the completion of this work, the church was consecrated in 1787. Today, Santa María la Mayor combines Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque elements and represents both a spiritual center and an important testimony to the architecture and history of Gandia.

Numerous small fishing and pleasure boats are anchored in the Barranco de Sant Nicolau. The seawater extends far into the urban area of Gandia, shaping the landscape. The bridge offers a particularly beautiful view of the boats and the houses situated directly on the water.

Nautilus in Forna is the perfect spot for a break during your ride. Located in the heart of this charming village, its cozy terrace offers a relaxed atmosphere and beautiful views of the surrounding hills. Whether you’re in the mood for a good coffee, a refreshing drink, or a tasty lunch, this is the ideal place to recharge before hitting the road again.

On the CV-675 after Barx and leaving the La Drova development towards Gandía we find a recreational area where we can stop to rest or eat something, there is a fountain where you can refill water for the journey.

The climb from Gandia to Drova i Barx has some sections with cycle paths, like this one.

There are few options to achieve TOP of the Maneuver mauntain. The easiest one is just follow road for the special vehicles. Even if you have selected this option - you will have many challenging alternatives sections during hiking up. Better to make a hike by the good weather (no clouds). 360 degree view from the top is spectacular and one is able to see Ibiza/Formentera islands.