At the start of the HERO UCI Marathon World Cup 2026 on February 21, 2026, the curtain will rise on the stage of Calpe-Benissa, the Spanish cycling destination on the Costa Blanca. The landscape is dominated by the majestic Peñón de Ifach, which rises above golden sandy beaches and turquoise sea.

The town

The historic center of Calpe enchants with its colorful, lively streets and numerous historical sights. They tell the long history of a small town by the sea, which is characterized by the different cultural influences of the peoples who have left their mark here over the centuries. Thanks to its festivals and fishing traditions, its rich history remains alive in the present day. A little further north, Benissa lies between the sea and the mountainous hinterland, in a landscape of alternating vineyards, almond trees and Mediterranean cliffs. Leaving the town and the sea behind, you come across the Sierra de Bèrnia, a limestone mountain range full of rocky ridges, pine forests and hidden valleys. The mixture of wild nature and panoramic views of the sea make the region ideal for mountain biking and other outdoor sports.

The race courses

In this scenario full of colorful life, the starting signal is given for the HERO Costa Blanca, the first stage of the HERO UCI Marathon World Cup 2026, with a supporting program and two race courses: one 82 kilometers long with 2.722 meters of elevation gain for the elite and master riders, and a 50-kilometre route with 1,400 meters of elevation gain for participants in the hobby category.

The longer route can be summarized as follows: It starts on an ascent on asphalt, immediately followed by the streets of Benissa, which is located in the hinterland, and then the ascent of Solana. From there, the route continues towards the Sierra de Bèrnia, with technical sections and sea views. The route through the Sierra de Oltrà with steep climbs and descents and then on to the finish back to Calpe is then decisive.

The young HEROes will also have their moment - at the HERO Kids Costa Blanca, which takes place on Saturday, February 21, at 9.30 am. A very special experience where the little ones can literally experience how much fun mountain biking can be.

The HERO Costa Blanca presents itself as a competition that is sure to test the participants in this first stage of the HERO UCI Marathon World Cup 2026 - and which will offer an exciting, rousing race.

herocostablanca.com