Dénia is building a new 2.5km cycling circuit for mountain bikers and cyclocross riders

Cyclists in Dénia are getting a major new facility, with construction underway on a permanent 2.5-kilometre circuit designed for mountain biking and cyclocross.

The purpose-built course is taking shape in the Madrigueres Nord area, next to Dénia’s popular Vía Verde, and is expected to be completed around September.

Rather than being limited to casual riding, the project has been designed with both everyday training and organised competition in mind. The town hopes the facility will give local cyclists a dedicated place to develop their skills while putting Dénia in a stronger position to host regional cycling events.

A permanent home for cyclists

The project responds to a long-standing request from Dénia’s two cycling clubs, which have been involved in discussions with the town’s Sports Department over the new facility.

Until now, riders practising these disciplines have not had a permanent specialist circuit in the municipality.

Once completed, the new course will measure approximately 2.5 kilometres, with the main track around four metres wide.

Its design incorporates several obstacles and surfaces associated with mountain biking and cyclocross, giving cyclists the chance to practise different techniques within one dedicated area.

Among the features planned are a sand section and an artificial mound with steps, while a pit area will provide space for the assistance and equipment needed during competitive events.

Designed with competitions in mind

Accessibility is also being considered as part of the development. The site will have an entrance from the nearby paved road as well as an area where vehicles can be parked.

Its position beside Dénia’s existing municipal sports facilities could prove particularly useful when competitions are staged.

Cyclists and event organisers will be able to benefit from infrastructure already available nearby, including changing rooms, rather than requiring an entirely separate complex to be constructed.

Dénia’s Councillor for Sports, Valen Alcalà, has indicated that the council wants the circuit to serve both local riders and the wider competitive cycling community.

One of the longer-term ambitions is to bring regional-level cyclocross and mountain bike events to Dénia, potentially attracting competitors and spectators from elsewhere in the Valencian Community.

More than a bike track

The council is already looking at ways the space could have uses beyond cycling.

Its layout means the area could potentially accommodate other outdoor sporting activities, with school cross-country running among the possibilities being considered.

The permanent circuit will also add another dimension to an area already associated with cycling thanks to the neighbouring Vía Verde.

That traffic-free route, created along the former railway line, is popular with cyclists, walkers and runners and provides a largely flat recreational route through the countryside surrounding Dénia.

With construction progressing and completion expected around September, the new circuit should give the town’s cycling community something very different: a dedicated venue where riders can train regularly, tackle technical features and, if Dénia’s plans come to fruition, compete on home ground.