Walking on the Costa Blanca – a Mediterranean delight
The Costa Blanca, Spain’s sun-kissed Mediterranean coastline, is a walker’s paradise. With its stunning beaches, rugged cliffs, and charming coastal towns, the Costa Blanca offers a diverse range of walking trails for all levels of experience.
Our guidebook to walking on the Costa Blanca helps you to discover the best that this region has to offer.
Below we have described some of our highlights of walking on the Costa Blanca.
Vuelta de Olta (Olta Circuit) (Walk 3)
This clockwise walk around the Oltá peaks undulates roughly between the 300m and 400m contours.
Each time you emerge from the shade of fragrant pine trees you will have spectacular views over Calp and the coastline or towards the serrated ridges of surrounding serras.
Serra Gelada – from Benidorm to Albir (Walk 5)
Despite its proximity to Benidorm, the Serra Gelada is no mean mountain and must be treated with respect.
From the landward side its undulating silhouette appears benign. But from the sea its sheer, stepped cliffs present a formidable picture.
This exhilarating hike follows the cliff edge, with fantastic views.
Serpis Gorge (Walk 6)
This pleasant riverside stroll through the picturesque Serpis Gorge can be enjoyed by anyone.
From the level track you can appreciate the marked contrast between the sheer cliffs surrounding the gorge and the gentleness of the river flowing through it.
The river valley provides an ideal habitat for wild flowers and birds. Allow a full day for picnicking, botanising and birdwatching.
Barranc de la Encantada and Ermita de Santo Cristo (Walk 8)
In addition to exceptional views, this delightful walk offers a peaceful stroll by a stream and deep pools under the imposing cliffs of an impressive gorge.
Plus, there’s an optional detour to Planes with its ancient aqueduct and Moorish castle, and an old pilgrimage trail to an ermita.
Autumn, when the heather is purple on the hillsides and trees in the valleys shine yellow and gold, is the best time of year.
Serra de la Carrasca and the Mozarabic trails (Walk 10)
If you are fit enough to tackle a really long, full-day walk, then do not miss some version of this one. The main walk takes you along the Vall de Laguar, over the barren Carrasca Ridge and into Vall d’Ebo for a break in one of the bars.
After crossing the Barranc del Infern, you return on a pair of Mozarabic trails, one plunging steeply down into the bed of the Ebo, the other thrusting back up again.
Vuelta del Somo (Somo Cicruit) (Walk 11)
For variety of terrain, overwhelming views and outstanding scenery, this walk comes near the top of the list.
While Somo itself is an unremarkable mountain, as you make this anti-clockwise circuit it becomes obvious why this is one of our favourite walks. Look out for golden eagles which hunt in the area and for the tracks of the wild boar so prized by hunters.
The best time of year for walking on the Costa Blanca
The ideal time to explore the Costa Blanca on foot is during the shoulder seasons, spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October).
During these months, the weather is pleasant, the crowds are smaller, and the region’s natural beauty is at its vibrant best.
Getting around the Costa Blanca
Buses connect major towns and cities, making it easy to reach popular hiking destinations.
However, renting a car provides flexibility to explore at your own pace, especially for venturing off the beaten path.
The Costa Blanca’s diverse landscapes, warm climate, and picturesque coastal towns make it a fantastic destination for walkers.
Whether you’re seeking a challenging mountain hike or a leisurely stroll along the beach, the region offers something for everyone. Buy a copy of our guidebook to walking on the Costa Blanca.
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