Spain’s renowned cycling tour is set to return to the Alicante province for its 2023 edition, with the roads of Alicante taking center stage once again. If last year featured a time trial between Elche and Alicante that finished at the Alicante City Council Palace, the 2023 route introduces a stage starting in Dénia and ending at Alto de Xorret de Catí in Castalla, bringing a dramatic shift to the profile of the race.
Evenepoel powers through the Elche–Alicante corridor
JA galvanized
In 2023, the route will place up to 20 percent of the climb at Xorret de Catí within the Castalla municipality, replacing the flatter Marina Alta terrain with steeper mountains and rugged slopes. The Vuelta Ciclista a España has long been synonymous with spectacle, challenging riders with punishing ascents that highlight the sport’s physical demands and strategic artistry.
The 78th edition of the Vuelta a España is scheduled to begin in Barcelona on Saturday, 26 August and conclude in Madrid on 17 September, featuring the traditional circuit along Paseo del Prado and the Plaza de Cibeles. The stage linking Dénia and Xorret de Catí is slated for Saturday, 2 September. Official day-by-day details will be announced during the Barcelona presentation in January.
Stage coverage through Alicante will be supported by the Provincial Council of Alicante, which continues to back cycling and maintains strong relationships with Unipublic and its managing director, Javier Guillén. This collaboration ensures that La Vuelta returns to the province with renewed enthusiasm and regional engagement.
Carlos Mazón, head of the Alicante regional administration, confirmed the arrangement and emphasized the stage’s iconic finish at Alto de Xorret de Catí. He noted the climb’s demanding slope and the scenic surroundings that make it a favorite among cycling fans. The emphasis also highlighted Dénia as a start point, recognizing the town’s role in showcasing both sea and mountains to visitors. The province’s leadership stressed that La Vuelta’s presence helps attract international attention, boosts tourism, and creates economic opportunities through the influx of teams, staff, and fans.
The leadership of the Diputación reiterated the plan to leverage this internationally important sporting event to promote local municipalities, sustain tourism, and generate economic activity. The event’s impact extends beyond the race itself, drawing extensive media coverage from Teledeporte, TVE, and multiple international broadcasters. The route between Dénia and Xorret de Catí is expected to draw large spectator numbers, both along the roadside and in homes around the world, reinforcing the region’s appeal to travelers and cycling enthusiasts alike .