Cyclists are a familiar sight across Spain and the Costa Blanca. From the mountain roads around Calpe and Altea to inland climbs near Guadalest and coastal routes around Torrevieja.
Now, new Spanish road regulations could change how some of those roads look in the future.
The updated rules, published in Spain’s Official State Gazette, allow authorities to reduce or even remove hard shoulders on certain interurban roads to create segregated cycle lanes beside the carriageway.
Safer roads for cyclists and drivers
The aim is not to stop cyclists using roads. Instead, the changes focus on improving safety for both riders and motorists.
Under the new regulations, some roads could replace traditional hard shoulders with protected cycling lanes physically separated from vehicle traffic.
Authorities believe these changes could reduce serious accidents involving cyclists, especially on busy roads where space is currently limited.
As a result, the legislation forms part of Spain’s wider push towards safer cycling infrastructure and more sustainable transport.
Why it matters
The Costa Blanca has become one of Europe’s top cycling destinations.
Every year, professional cycling teams and thousands of amateur riders travel to Alicante province thanks to the mild climate, mountain climbs and scenic coastal routes.
Large groups of cyclists regularly share roads with vehicles, particularly during the busy spring and winter training seasons.
Consequently, local and regional authorities may now redesign some roads to better separate cyclists from fast-moving traffic, especially on routes considered dangerous or heavily used.
No general cycling ban
The changes have already triggered debate online. Some people fear cyclists could eventually face bans from certain roads.
However, the legislation does not introduce any general prohibition on cycling on public roads.
Instead, it gives authorities the option to adapt specific routes with infrastructure designed to improve coexistence between cyclists and drivers.
For now, officials have not announced exactly which Costa Blanca roads could eventually see these changes.
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