Route 99 is a project launched by the Generalitat Valenciana to spotlight the small municipalities with fewer than 100 inhabitants in Valencian society. At present, 24 towns participate in this route, four of which are located in Alicante. Through these towns visitors can discover a rich tapestry of gastronomic and cultural offerings, unveiling the curiosities tucked away in these hidden, intimate places across the Valencia region.
Similar to the Camino de Santiago, visitors can stamp an identification document at each stop along the route to prove they have visited. This holiday plan in Alicante invites travelers to choose one of these tiny towns, soak up its unique charm, and make lasting memories.
Today’s featured town is Tollos, a municipality in the comarca of Comtat. Tollos holds the distinction of having the smallest population in the province, with about 56 residents. Nestled in the Seta River valley near the Sierra de Alfaro, it offers a scenic gateway for walkers. A typical route runs roughly 20 kilometers and takes more than five hours on foot. Hikers will encounter a climb in the Sierra de Alfaro followed by a descent into the Malafi valley. By car, the journey follows CV-720 and then CV-713 to reach Tollos.
Explore Famorca, one of Alicante’s four towns on Route 99
Patron saint festivities begin on July 25 in honor of San Antonio de Padua and the Virgin of the Rosary. Traditionally, the local economy leaned on agriculture and animal husbandry, but today the service sector—especially restaurants—and care for the elderly drive daily life. Olive groves and cherry orchards remain among the most cultivated crops.
What to do in Tollos?
In Tollos, visitors can engage with the town’s culture in diverse ways and enjoy a peaceful break from city life:
- Visit the church of San Antonio de Padua. The town’s community stands out not only for its age but also because it was built on Islamic ruins during the reconquest. The bell tower, with Serrella in the background, offers one of the most beautiful sunsets in the Vall de Seta.
- Spend the night in a rural house nearby. A simple escape from urban stress, staying in a country house in the area provides a tranquil experience with a breathtaking sunrise.
- Sample the local gastronomy. Tollos is known for two distinct dishes: peppermint meatballs and Muller, a ratatouille-style dish that can include unsalted cod and is delightfully flavorful. La Olleta de Blat, a dish featuring shredded wheat instead of rice, is another notable specialty.
- Join Tollos Road. For runners and cycling enthusiasts, Tollos offers a remarkable route. The town is also part of the Vuelta a España route, and many professional teams train on these roads.