Alicante is a province in our country known for its stunning natural landscapes and a wealth of outdoor experiences. With mild weather even in January, many hiking routes stay inviting, making weekend strolls a real possibility. This article highlights some of the best hiking trails Alicante has to offer and gives a sense of what to expect on each route.
1.- Ecological tour of Benissa, a route between cliffs and magnificent bays
This coastal walk follows a coastal road starting at the Les Bassetes yacht club and winds past several coves along rocky sections. The path offers multiple access points, so you can tailor the route to your pace and energy, rather than committing to a fixed loop.
10 wonders of the state of Alicante to visit this December bridge
The route delivers sweeping views of the Mediterranean and is suitable for families. It is easy to reach and navigate, with a track length of about 2.5 kilometers. Depending on pauses and pace, completion times typically range from one to one and a half hours. Along the way, information panels illuminate local flora and fauna, enriching the walk with natural history insights.
Shaded spots and benches are scattered along the route, making it ideal for a relaxed break and a snack mid-journey.
2.- Walking route through the Cathedral Barranc de l’Infern
Marina Alta hosts several natural spaces where visitors can breathe fresh air, engage in mountain activities, or simply revel in the scenery. Barranc de l’Infern, located near Laguar Valley, stands out as a premier destination for hikers and climbers alike.
It is a geological and archaeological treasure, renowned for panoramic vistas and sculpted slopes. Its deep gorges and natural arches evoke a sense of ancient grandeur that invites steady, careful exploration.
The route is demanding, with an estimated 4-5 hours to complete. It is a circular path that encircles the ravine and features more than 6,800 stone steps of Moorish origin. Hikers should pace themselves, appreciate the vistas, and move slowly when ascending.
The most emblematic site in the region is a high, inaccessible pass between deep wells and sheer rocks. At the canyon’s exit, river erosion has created a vast natural vault of monumental size. Are you ready to encounter it on foot this December?
3.- The Road to Albir Lighthouse
Among Alicante’s trails, this one is celebrated for its simplicity and scenery. A quiet walk between sea and mountains leads from Serra Gelada Nature Park to Albir Lighthouse.
The route begins near Albir Beach, near the end of Paseo de las Estrellas, where a cinematic touch greets visitors with names of Spanish actors and directors honored at the local Film Festival. Behind the tourism office in Alfaz del Pi, the path advances toward the lighthouse.
Movies to watch this December bridge
Along the ascent, a cabin marks two route options: a more challenging path across the mountainous spine and a paved route that echoes the old coastal path to the lighthouse.
Walking through the vast pine forest reveals a range of flora including Aleppo pine, carob, and honeysuckle. The view of Altea and its entire bay unfolds from different vantage points, highlighting the coast’s clash with the mountains. Benches along the way invite rest and reflection as the path winds through a tunnel, offering ever-changing perspectives.
Continuing onward, visitors encounter the Ochre Mines, a reddish clay long used by Phoenicians and Romans. Nearby lies Cala de la Mina, a small cove worth a pause for a breather.
Further ahead, a rocky crest marks the entrance to a cave reached via a scrubby path known as Boca de la Balena. The climb rewards explorers with high-altitude scenery, and inside the lighthouse, once restored as a museum, visitors can learn how the tower functioned and its role in coastal defense against pirates.
4. The route through Peñón de Ifach
Peñón de Ifach is one of the province’s most recognizable rock formations. This vast limestone mass rises 332 meters above sea level and covers around 45 hectares as part of Penyal d’Ifach Natural Park.
The route suits climbers and explorers who want a challenge while enjoying stunning views. It is a two-kilometer circuit that typically takes under two hours, though a brisk pace can shorten the time.
The path has a cumulative roughness around 291 meters. The first segment is more approachable, while from the tunnel onward the terrain becomes steeper and more demanding. The incline is notable, with significant elevation gain over a short distance.
5.- Banyeres mills route
Banyeres de Mariola sits high in the interior, part of the Sierra Mariola Natural Park. It is renowned for its cultural and natural heritage linked to the Vinalopó River, aromatic and medicinal plants, fountains, and historic paper mills.
The Molins route highlights the town’s industrial past, guiding visitors to the three most iconic paper mills. This cultural trail pairs historical insight with scenic landscapes and the lush natural surroundings of the valley.
In addition to cultural heritage, the natural setting offers ample opportunities for walking, discovering diverse routes, and soaking in striking views that never fail to impress. One popular starting point is Molí l’Ombria, from which multiple trails depart, including the Ruta dels Molins and the Ruta dels Miradors.
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