BikeAlao

BikeAlao is a Valencia bike rental and tour company with two bases. BikeAlao Maritim is in the Grau district, next to the Cabanyal, close to the sea, the port and the cruise terminal, while BikeAlao City is a few steps from the City of Arts and Sciences and the Turia garden. Both are well placed for cycling, as the coast and the riverbed park are the two great flat routes of the city.

The company's guided bike routes are led by local guides and cover monuments, parks and less obvious corners of Valencia. Its rides also head out of the city: the El Saler beach, the Albufera lagoon and the Huerta Norte, the market gardens north of Valencia, are all within roughly 30 minutes to an hour by bike. Riding to the Albufera along the coast, past dunes and pine woods, is one of the most rewarding day trips from Valencia, and going with a guide takes the guesswork out of the route.

For groups and companies, BikeAlao can put together wider programmes, including paella classes, walking tours, tapas routes, boat trips and graffiti routes through the street art of El Carmen or the Cabanyal. These are useful for families or friends travelling together who want an organised day out.

If you prefer to go alone, both shops rent equipment. The Maritim branch rents bicycles and electric bicycles, and the City branch rents city bikes and electric scooters. Bikes come with lights and a lock, scooters with lights and a charger, and the company also offers bike repairs and luggage storage, which is handy for cruise passengers or travellers between check-out and departure. Contact the company by phone or email to confirm tour times, languages, prices and the meeting point before you go.

BikeAlao suits active travellers, families with older children, cruise visitors with a day in port and anyone who wants to see the Albufera or the huerta under their own steam. In summer, start early to avoid the heat, carry plenty of water and use sun protection. Valencia's bike lanes are extensive, but take care on shared stretches with pedestrians, especially along the seafront promenade at busy times.