Font Roja is the classic climb of the Sierra Mariola mountains, and is very popular with cyclists from the Alcoy and Cocentaina area. It begins with a tough 500m ascending out of Alcoy, before a gently rolling section. The climb
then begins in earnest around 4km from the top. A series of hairpin bends begin, with some steep corners, although the steep sections don't last especially long.
The scenery here is pleasant, cycling through the Font Roja Natural Park, but it is mostly in forest, with few spectacular panoramic views. Don't let this put you off, however, because it is an enjoyable ascent and
the forest provides some nice shade when the temperatures are high.
Font de Roja is open throughout the year.
View of Alcoy from half way up the climb
Roads & Traffic
The road surface is very good throughout the climb. There is some traffic in the first 300m, but it thins out quickly as you leave Alcoy. On weekends there can
be traffic with hikers driving into the Natural Park, but nothing particularly bothersome for cycling.
You can take a detour to visit Barxell Castle
Alternative Routes
Font Roja can also be climbed from the west, joining this route around 3km from the top. It is more rolling than sustained climbing from this side though.
Spain
