Riding as a family along this coast is easy, on one condition: pick the right places. The terrain is no obstacle, it is all flat. What matters is traffic, and as it happens Torrevieja and Orihuela Costa have two rides where you barely meet a car.
The two genuinely car-free rides
The first is the Torrevieja Vía Verde, a former railway line turned into a wide compacted-earth track. Seven kilometres, no climbs, no cars, and the pink lagoon alongside. It is the ride we suggest first to a family: you can turn back whenever you like, which is exactly what you want with children.
The second is the coast from Cabo Roig to Campoamor, alternating seafront promenade and quiet streets. It asks a little more attention than the Vía Verde because of the pedestrians, but you share the road with nobody else.
If your children like birds, add the La Mata lagoons: you ride there and finish on foot along the trails, which breaks up the day rather nicely.
Helmets, non-negotiable under sixteen
This is the point to know, and it leaves no room for interpretation: in Spain a helmet is compulsory on all roads, in town and outside it, for anyone under sixteen. Not only on the open road, and not only on holiday. The new rules in force since 1 October 2026 change nothing for them, though they do tighten things for adults outside built-up areas.
Every rental includes a helmet, child sizes included when we have them: tell us the ages when you book, which is the surest way to have the right kit ready.
Pavements, cycle lanes and promenades
Every family asks, and the answer is in the text. Cyclists may not ride on pavements, with one exception: children under twelve, where the town hall allows it. Bikes are allowed in other pedestrian areas, such as seafront promenades, subject to whatever limits the town hall sets and provided pedestrians keep priority and safety.
In practice, on a promenade: walking pace, one adult in front, one behind, and off the bikes as soon as the crowd thickens. That is as much courtesy as regulation.
Trailers and child seats
The regulation governs the equipment rather than the age. It allows trailers, semi-trailers and other devices for carrying people, animals up to fifteen kilos or loads, provided they meet the technical specifications set by ministerial order, and it leaves the town hall free to impose restrictions. Outside built-up areas the same rules apply, by day and in good visibility.
On our side, a child seat may be available as an option, as may a pannier. Ask for it when you book: it is the kind of accessory we cannot promise at the last minute.
Who can rent
The person renting must be at least eighteen and show valid identification. A minor can only rent when accompanied by a responsible adult. In other words a teenager rides their own bike, but a parent signs for it.
Three things that make the day
Start early, especially in summer. Midday heat spoils a family ride long before distance does.
Plan something shorter than you think you can manage. On the Vía Verde, a partial out-and-back beats the full route followed by a grim ride home.
And take water and sun cream, plus something to cover shoulders. Closed shoes for everyone: pedals and flip-flops do not get along.
What it means for your rental
A city bike is enough for both of these rides. Electric assistance only earns its keep if an adult is pulling a trailer or you are aiming at a longer day, in which case have a look at city bike or electric bike.
Our city bikes, our electric bikes, the frequently asked questions and our contact page are there for the rest.
