Cyclists climbing the Coll de Rates with views over the Jalón valley.

For cyclists · CV-175

The Coll de Rates, from the top

For years we have welcomed clubs, couples and solo riders climbing up from Parcent on one of the most-loved ascents on the Costa Blanca. Here is what you will find at the summit — and why so many keep coming back.

The climb in numbers

628 m

Summit altitude

6 km

Length from Parcent

356 m

Total elevation

~8%

Average gradient · final

01

The approach through the Jalón valley

Before the ramp, there is the valley. Coming from the coast via Senija, Lliber or Xaló, you leave the noise of the seaside behind and roll onto an almost flat valley floor framed by mountains and vineyards. It is one of the most beautiful stretches of road in the area: small villages, churches, almond groves and orchards. You ride through Lliber, Xaló and Alcalalí, and at Parcent you turn left onto the CV-175. You are at the foot of the climb.

02

The climb from Parcent

The first kilometres are a long, honest ramp, not too steep, perfect to find your rhythm. Then the road twists upward for around 4 km, gaining height above the valley. A wide 180-degree switchback marks the start of the hardest section: a straight push to the summit at roughly 8% average gradient. On your left, the view opens over Parcent, the valley and the blue line of the Mediterranean far below.

Route profile

From Parcent to the summit, mapped

6.5 km · 356 m of elevation · 5.2% average gradient · 8.1% maximum. Start in Parcent (270 m), finish at the top of the Coll de Rates (626 m).

Illustrated silhouette of the Coll de Rates climb from Parcent: 6.5 km winding road up to the 626 m summit, with elevation profile, 356 m of climbing, 5.2% average and 8.1% maximum gradient.

03

At the top: the sign, the photo, the shade

Tradition says you stop for a photo at the Coll de Rates sign, covered in stickers from clubs across Europe. Right behind it is the restaurant: a terrace facing the valley, cold water, coffee, and a shaded place to pause before riding on to Tárbena or dropping back down to Parcent. If your legs still have something left, the final stretch up to Tossal dels Diners (927 m) starts higher up, with a short unpaved section and ramps around 10.5%.

Restaurant terrace at the top of the Coll de Rates overlooking Parcent.

For cyclists

What we offer riders

We have hosted clubs and guided tours for years. The routine is built so you can stop properly, eat fast and get back on the bike without losing the day.

Bike parking in view

An area watched from the terrace, so you can leave your gear and relax while you recover.

Water, isotonics, real coffee

Cold bottles, electrolyte drinks and proper espresso to start the descent with a clear head.

Shade and space for groups

A wide terrace overlooking the valley, with tables for clubs and rides of several dozen cyclists.

Fast energy menu

Sandwiches, omelette, pasta, salads and homemade desserts. Served quickly, no long waits.

We welcome cyclists from opening time every day. If you are arriving with a large group, drop us a line the day before and we will hold a table on the terrace.

04

A classic loop from Parcent

A well-ridden option: climb the Coll de Rates from Parcent, stop at the top, continue toward Tárbena, link onto the CV-752 for a little extra climbing, descend toward Castell de Castells and close the loop back to Parcent on the CV-720. A full road-bike day with scenery that changes valley by valley.

Riding up this week?

If you are coming as an organised group, a quick call or message helps us have your table ready when you reach the top.