The soaring rugged mountains of the Costa Blanca are interspersed
with lush green valleys with orange, almond and olive groves as well
as the countless vineyards this area is renown for. The area offers
walks with spectacular scenery, whilst the attractive mountain villages
provide hospitality and character. The development of the coastal
strip has not reached the countryside, which remains unspoiled.
The walks fall in an area to the north of Alicante
in the Valencia province, a region of the country where despite past
government attempts to prohibit the local Valenciano language and
culture there is now a strong revival of both.
The wonderful walks are centred on the rugged mountain
terrain of the eastern Costa Blanca and include the Sierra Olta, Sierra
Bernia, Sierra Toix, Montgó, Val de Jalon, Val de Llosa, Val de Laguart
and Val de Gallinera. You will walk through glorious scenery, dotted
with ruined Moorish castles dating back to the 13th C and beyond,
so numerous that many are not even marked on the local maps.
If you are lucky you may spot the local wildlife, wild
boar and lynx can still be found and it is not uncommon to spot eagles
soaring high in the mountains.
The paths can be rocky underfoot but are never dangerous
although of course a good pair of walking boots is essential. The
walks can be enjoyed at your own pace but we will provide guide times
for your convenience. They include everything from gentle strolls
through the valley to mountain scrambles taking anything between 2
hours to a full 8 hour day.
VALENCIA
Valencia is an ancient kingdom with its own language and customs and
indeed flag and despite the best efforts of previous Spanish kings
and of course the recent dictatorship to abolish it, the area has
recently undergone a revival. The Valencia province is now autonomous
and even boasts its own government. When venturing around the local
villages don’t be surprised to hear the local Valenciano language,
which is widely spoken and still taught in many schools (indeed our
daughter Sophie is currently grappling with it in our local school).
You will also notice that most road signs and place names are written
in Valenciano.
JALON VALLEY
Set in this beautiful valley the villages of Jalon, Lliber, Alcalali
and Parcent have much to offer. Surrounded by orange, almond and olive
groves, vineyards and mountains the scenery is spectacular. Cycling
is very popular here but the twisting mountain roads can prove a challenge.
The valley is famous for its wine production and there are three bodegas
in Jalon alone. A weekly rastro(flea market) is held every Saturday
in Jalon and is very popular with locals and visitors alike.
The area is also well known for its large number and
variety of restaurants and village tapas bars, ranging from sophisticated
to well lets just say basic! Some of which are within walking distance
of the accommodation. Higher in the mountains are many picturesque
villages, Castell de Castells and Guadalest being among the more interesting.
Should you wish to visit the beach the following resorts are between
25 – 35 minutes drive.
JAVEA
The main beach at Javea is the Arenal, set in a wide bay with golden
sands and safe swimming and none of the high rise buildings that tend
to spoil some of the other resorts. The beach is backed with a huge
variety of bars and restaurants to suit every taste and budget. The
Port area is particularly popular with visitors.
CALPE
The resort of Calpe is just 20 minutes away with three sandy beaches.
The town beach is at the end of the main shopping street, a large
beach with safe swimming, football and volleyball nets. The harbour
retains its fishing heritage and has a small sandy beach and is renowned
for its outstanding seafood restaurants. The main beach is set in
a large bay with safe swimming and a variety of restaurants, bars
and shops overlooked by the Penon d’Ifach or Rock of d’Ifach. You
can walk to the summit of the rock and visit the Nature Park and museum
about half way up.
BENIDORM AND TERRA MITICA
For those wanting to explore further we are only 35 minutes drive
from the bright lights of Benidorm, the water park Aqualandia and
the theme park Terra Mitica. NB. The parks are not open all year round
please see our links page for more information.
The beautiful cities of Valencia and Alicante are not too far away.
Valencia is 90 minutes drive with historic buildings and great shopping.
Alicante is 75 minutes drive and enjoys beautiful buildings, shopping
and lovely sandy beaches.
We can provide transport to all of the above places if required.
