A Guide to the Best Hiking and Walking Tours in the Valencian Community

The Valencian Community, located on the eastern coast of Spain, is renowned for its beautiful Mediterranean beaches, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage. But beyond the urban charm and sunny shores lies a landscape perfect for hikers and nature lovers. The region is home to diverse terrain, from mountains and forests to natural parks and coastal paths, making it an ideal destination for hiking and walking tours.

In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best hiking and walking routes in the Valencian Community, suitable for all levels of ability, from beginners to experienced trekkers. Whether you’re seeking scenic coastal views, historical landmarks, or challenging mountain trails, the Valencian Community has something for everyone.

1. The Sierra de Espadán Natural Park

Located in the province of Castellón, the Sierra de Espadán Natural Park is a haven for hikers who want to experience a mix of dense forests, rugged mountains, and picturesque villages. The park covers more than 31,000 hectares and is known for its cork oak trees, a rarity in this part of Spain.

• Recommended Route: The "Circular de la Mosquera" route is a must for those wanting a moderate hike through some of the most scenic parts of the park. This 15-kilometer loop takes about 5-6 hours to complete and offers spectacular views, including ancient cork trees and traditional Valencian farmhouses.
• Difficulty Level: Moderate
• Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn, when the weather is pleasant, and the landscape is lush and green.

2. El Garbí Peak

El Garbí, located near the city of Valencia, is one of the most iconic hiking spots in the region. The hike is relatively short but offers stunning panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding countryside. On clear days, you can even see as far as the Balearic Islands.

• Recommended Route: Starting from the town of Serra, this hike follows a well-marked trail to the summit of El Garbí. The trail is about 7 kilometers long and takes around 3 hours to complete, making it suitable for beginner to intermediate hikers.
• Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
• Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early summer, when the wildflowers are in bloom.

3. Ruta de los Acantilados (Route of the Cliffs)

For those who prefer coastal walks, the Ruta de los Acantilados, located in the town of Benitatxell, offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean cliffs and turquoise waters. This route follows the coastline and is particularly famous for its stunning cliffside views and hidden coves.

• Recommended Route: The route begins at Cala del Moraig and takes you along a 4.5-kilometer path to Cala Llebeig. Along the way, you’ll pass through ancient fishermen’s huts and hidden beaches. Although short, the steep terrain makes this trail more suitable for experienced hikers.
• Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult
• Best Time to Visit: Summer and early autumn, but start early to avoid the midday heat.

4. Serra Gelada Natural Park

Serra Gelada Natural Park, located near the coastal town of Benidorm, is a unique destination for those looking to combine hiking with seaside scenery. The park boasts towering cliffs and a variety of flora and fauna, including native plants and birds.

• Recommended Route: The route from Benidorm to Albir Lighthouse is a popular option for those seeking a moderately challenging hike. The trail is about 8 kilometers round trip and takes around 3-4 hours to complete. You’ll be rewarded with stunning sea views and a chance to spot marine wildlife such as dolphins.
• Difficulty Level: Moderate
• Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn, when the weather is cooler, and the skies are clear.

5. Montgó Natural Park

Montgó Natural Park, located near the town of Dénia, offers some of the most diverse landscapes in the Valencian Community. With its towering limestone massif, Montgó stands at 753 meters and offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea, the surrounding valleys, and the nearby island of Ibiza.

• Recommended Route: The "La Cova Tallada" trail is a favorite among hikers. This 10-kilometer route takes about 4 hours to complete and leads to a stunning cave carved into the cliffs. Along the way, you’ll encounter a variety of landscapes, from rocky paths to coastal cliffs.
• Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult
• Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn, as the summer heat can be overwhelming.

6. Peñagolosa Natural Park

Peñagolosa Natural Park is home to the second-highest peak in the Valencian Community, standing at 1,813 meters. Known as the "Roof of the Valencian Community," Peñagolosa is a popular destination for more experienced hikers looking for a challenging climb.

• Recommended Route: The "Camino de la Luna" is a challenging 18-kilometer trail that takes around 7-8 hours to complete. This route offers a variety of terrains, including forests, rocky paths, and alpine meadows, and culminates at the summit, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
• Difficulty Level: Difficult
• Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn, avoiding winter when snow can make the trails treacherous.

7. The Albufera Natural Park

For those seeking a more leisurely walking experience, the Albufera Natural Park, located just 10 kilometers south of Valencia, offers flat, easy trails through a landscape of rice fields, wetlands, and lagoons. The park is a haven for birdwatchers, as it is home to many species of migratory birds.

• Recommended Route: The "Ruta del Saler" is a 6-kilometer walk that takes about 2 hours to complete. This easy route offers stunning views of the Albufera lagoon and the surrounding wetlands, with plenty of opportunities to spot birds like flamingos and herons.
• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Best Time to Visit: Autumn and winter, when the migratory birds are present.

Conclusion

The Valencian Community offers a wealth of hiking and walking opportunities, from coastal paths and wetlands to rugged mountain trails. Whether you’re an experienced hiker looking for a challenge or a casual walker seeking scenic views, this region has something for everyone. Be sure to check the weather conditions and pack accordingly, as the Valencian climate can vary depending on the season and altitude. Happy hiking!