January arrives with chilly air and bright days, inviting walkers to escape the everyday grind for a weekend. The following route offers a memorable experience in the Banyeres de Mariola area, combining scenic canyons, historic mills, and easy access for families and serious hikers alike. This walk through Molins route can be enjoyed any time of year, and this winter Sunday presents a perfect chance to explore it.
Route through Mascarat canyon: tour the most spectacular valley in Alicante
The Mascarat canyon route unfolds along a valley that has long captivated those who love outdoor adventures. The path reveals a landscape where clear streams, shaded banks, and the distant mountains create a compelling setting for a day outdoors. It is a route that respects any pace, from a light family stroll to a more rugged hike for those who want a bit extra. The journey through the canyon emphasizes the changes that seasons bring, offering dramatic light and color that define this stretch of Alicante’s interior.
Ruta dels Molins is the most beautiful route to follow in autumn in the province of Alicante
The Molins route stands out as a standout experience during the autumn months in Alicante. Beyond its natural charm, the trail passes by three historic paper mills that symbolize an important era for the region. The impression is of a tranquil, reflective landscape where industrial heritage meets pastoral scenery, making it a compelling choice for walkers who enjoy stories along the way as much as scenery. The route invites visitors to slow down, observe the textures of aging masonry, and savor the serenity of the surrounding countryside.
You can leave the car beside the road to begin the journey at Molí l’Ombria recreation area, where two paths diverge: the Route dels Molins and the Mirador Route, each offering unique viewpoints and moments of pause for photos or a quiet moment of rest.
Near the starting point sits the Vinalopó riverbed. The route is straightforward enough to be enjoyable for children, and the recreation area features a playground and several picnic tables for families planning a day out.
Seven natural parks to visit in Alicante this autumn
The journey begins beside Molí l’Ombria and follows the Molí del Sol riverbed, where the remains of a once bustling paper industry tell a quiet history. The path eventually leads to Molí Pont, and along the way the landscape showcases willows and poplars that turn rich browns as leaves drift over the lanes. The scenery feels romantic in autumn, inviting slow exploration and easy breaks to take in the seasonal colors.
Other things to do in Banyeres de Mariola
Visitors can deepen their experience by exploring the town, known as the highest municipality in the inland part of the province. The area boasts a rich cultural and gastronomic heritage that complements the outdoor routes. Museums in Banyeres offer a window into local industry and history and lend themselves to a rewarding half day after a long walk.
Two notable museums in the town are the Valencia Paper Museum and the l’Espardenya Museum, linked to the industrial tradition of Banyeres and housed near Villa Rosario Park. Nearby is the Pharmacy Museum, situated close to the tourist office, and the Archaeological Museum housed in the Font Bona tower. These sites add a cultural layer to a day spent outdoors, illustrating how the town evolved over the centuries.
For those who love panoramic city views, a climb to the Santo Cristo castle or the nearby hermitage offers striking overlooks from the highest points in the municipality. The vantage points provide opportunities to pause, reflect, and absorb the landscape that surrounds Banyeres de Mariola.