A bike park with a difference: La Fenasosa

THE SPOT

20 kilometres of DH trails in the Sierra Mariola National Park near Alicante. The park is located in a 1000-hectare private area with wildlife at an altitude of almost 1200 metres. There are no lifts, the bikes are shuttled in army trucks, each of which has space for up to twelve bikers. Except in August, it is always open. But only if at least ten people come together. A long-stroke enduro bike is the minimum requirement, as many of the jumps are huge and the descents are long and sometimes very rocky. If you can, take a downhill bike. Best time to visit: all year round (closed in August). www.lafenasosa.com

THE TRAILS

The park offers three rather natural, not too steep, but very rough DH trails. There are also three smooth and well-maintained trails, some of which have huge jumplines. There is also a very long and physically demanding enduro circuit and some cross and freeride trails with wooden elements, small berms and jumps spread across the terrain. The park's "flying zone" is located right next to the finca. A large gap (5 metres deep, 7 metres wide) and three gigantic double jumps (10-15 metres) are only suitable for experts. All trails are very well maintained and are in good condition all year round.

THE DRUMHERUM

The park owner's finca is actually a hunting lodge. Quaint and very privately furnished. The landlord is a former motorbike racer and excellent cook. The finca has six rooms and a total of twelve beds. There is no functional heating, so you should bring warm clothes in winter. You can book day tickets, weekends and whole weeks for the park and finca online. Group bookings for several days are recommended. You should allow at least two days to fully explore the area. Travelling: Fly to Alicante and then take the shuttle to the park for another 1 hour.

FOR WHOM?

La Fenasosa is a park for advanced riders and experts. The terrain is rough and requires concentration and riding technique. Some jumps and the surface are borderline with the enduro. You can have maximum fun on a downhill bike, but only if you feel safe in the air. Most of the jumps in La Fenasosa are built as doubles and the signposting is sparse to non-existent. You can tell from the course layout that ambitious motocrossers are part of the construction team. What's more, the park was advised by jump monster Andreu Laconeguy. No joke.