Alicante stands out among the country’s provinces for its stunning natural settings. It isn’t surprising that some of the best hiking trails in Spain are found here. The autumn and spring climates are an ideal match for these routes, which wind through forests and caves. Planning a walking trip during the December bridge? Here is a guide to the best hiking trails in Alicante.
The Benissa Ecological Walk showcases remarkable scenery and a route that highlights coastal cliffs and crystal clear bays.
1.- Ecological tour of Benissa, a route between cliffs and magnificent bays
This coastal stroll is a coastal road that begins at the Les Bassetes yacht club and threads along several coves, following paths between rock formations. It offers multiple access points along the way, so the circuit can be tailored without retracing large sections.
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The route treats walkers to sweeping views of the Mediterranean. It is an easy itinerary suitable for families, including children. The 2.5 kilometer track features steps, and with pauses and slower pace it can take one to one and a half hours. Information panels along the way explain the flora and fauna of each area.
There are shaded spots and benches and tables for a rest or a light snack halfway along the route.
2.- Walking route through the Cathedral Barranc de l’Infern
Marina Alta hosts several natural areas where visitors can breathe fresh air, practice mountain sports, or simply admire the area’s dramatic scenery. Barranc de l Infern sits in the Laguar Valley and is one of the region’s great places.
This natural spectacle, carved by the Girona river, attracts hikers and climbers for its stunning panoramas and steep slopes. The canyon features majestic natural slides whose depth feels almost limitless.
The trail is challenging, with an estimated 4 to 5 hours to complete. It is a circular route that surrounds the ravine and is famed as the Cathedral of Walking, thanks to more than 6,800 stone steps of Moorish origin. Climbers should stay calm and enjoy the vistas throughout the ascent.
The emblematic site within the region features an inaccessible mountain pass framed by deep wells, rocks and cliffs. At the canyon’s exit, river erosion created a vast natural vault of impressive proportions. December invites visitors to see it up close via the nearby bridge.
3.- The Road to Albir Lighthouse
A spectacular and accessible option in Alicante. A quiet path that links sea and mountains from the Serra Gelada Nature Park to the Albir Lighthouse.
Starting from Albir beach at the end of Paseo de las Estrellas, where floor inscriptions honor Spanish actors and directors who have won awards at the town’s annual Film Festival, hikers follow a route behind the tourism office toward the Albir Lighthouse.
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Along the ascent, a signposted fork reveals two paths. One route climbs through the mountain ranges, while another travels along a paved road formerly used as a path to the lighthouse.
In the vast pine forest, visitors can observe a diverse mix of vegetation, including Aleppo pines, carob and honeysuckle. From different angles, Altea and its bay can be seen, showing the contrast between coast and mountain. Benches along the path offer places to rest and enjoy the views.
Continuing, visitors encounter the Ochre Mines with reddish clay once used by ancient civilizations for pigments. A nearby cove called Cala de la Mina awaits.
Further along, a rock feature marks the entrance to a cave reached via a scrubby trail known as Boca de la Balena.
Near the destination, high-altitude scenery unfolds. Inside the lighthouse, restored and turned into a museum, one can learn more about its operation. The tower, also known as the Bombarda tower, is part of a series of coastal defense structures built to deter looting by Barbary pirates.
4. The route through Peñón de Ifach
Peñón de Ifach rises as one of the most recognizable rock formations in Alicante. This vast calcareous mass stands 332 meters high, located in Marina Alta and spanning 45 hectares within Penyal d’Ifac Natural Park.
This landmark attracts climbers and offers a natural setting often chosen for iconic journeys. The route is 2 kilometers round trip and typically takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes, though faster hikers can complete it in around two and a half hours.
The trail covers rough sections with an overall ascent of 291 meters. The difficulty varies: the initial part is easier along a marked path while the second part near the tunnel and the geodesic peak is steeper. About one kilometer reveals a notable rise.
Any season is suitable for the ascent on Peñón de Ifach, but rain or fog should be avoided. Spring and fall showcase flowers and seabirds at their best.
5.- Banyeres mills route
Banyeres marks the highest inland town in Alicante, located in the l’Alcoià region within the Sierra de Mariola Natural Park. The area is rich in cultural and natural heritage tied to the Vinalopó River, aromatic and medicinal plants, fountains, and old paper mills.
The Molins route reveals the town’s industrial past, focusing on the three most emblematic paper mills in Banyeres. Visitors can explore trails that lead through nature and reveal landscapes that continually amaze.
Its natural setting invites exploration, with paths that weave through scenery and show off the area’s beauty. Molí l’Ombria is a starting point for several routes, including the Ruta dels Molins and the Ruta dels Miradors.
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