Mountain peaks around Parcent offer diverse opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. This tranquil village in the Marina Alta region of Spain serves as a base for exploring notable mountain areas like the Sierra de Bernia and Coll de Rates. The region is characterized by significant limestone ridges, natural formations, and historical sites. Visitors can find a range of activities from challenging cycling climbs to scenic hiking routes with panoramic views.
Last updated: August 23, 2026
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The descent from returns the same way back to the Portet d'Ondara. I made the descent eastwards to the old aqueduct path. This is significantly more demanding compared to the ascent via the west side. Slopes/descents of up to approx. 40% are present. The vegetation and the poorly visible yellow trail marking often cause you to pause and look around. Stone towers and GPS help with orientation. Overall, however, progress is slow. The signpost at the bottom of the aqueduct path already gives a hint: 1:10h for approx. 800m of path to the Portet d'Ondara.
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The view is worth it. However, in the summer months (when it gets over 30 degrees) it is recommended to ascend only early in the morning, so that you descend again by 11 am. I ascended from the west side (in the shade in the morning). Up to Portet d'Ondara the path is still reasonably recognizable. From there to the summit "Cim de Segària" the path and terrain are difficult to recognize and require sure-footedness. Sturdy mountain boots are helpful due to the rugged terrain and sharp stones. It is also possible with trail running shoes, but they suffer greatly. Up to the summit, you often have to search for the path or yellow markings, which are also completely missing in places. According to the maps, the path is classified as T2 (SAC scale). Due to the poor visibility of the path, rugged and sharp stones, I would tend towards at least T3. In some places, you also have to climb over a few larger stones or make bigger jumps.
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Fantastic views and nice rocks to sit and have your lunch. Large flat area for large walking groups. Accessible from Murla on a steep SAC T3 path via the Hermita and Penya Migdia which does not include any chains or staples - BUT - if you continue west along the route there are chains and staples SAC T4 and T5 to negotiate. The T5 is a descent heading west to east and appears more daunting than if you were making an ascent. In my humble view it does not warrant a T5 rating. In reality any average competent walker will not experience any significant problem.
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The start of the climb is demanding and gradually becomes easier. A rocky climb with ruts. A slight descent on stones, an accessible path and a descent on a well-paved road.
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This section is "off-piste" to get to the top of Cavall Verd. It involves staples, a chain and some steep rock. This part of the trail must be descended the same way as you clambered up.
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One of the ideal towns for mountain biking in the Marina Alta is Castell de Castells. From there you can climb to the Cima del Cocoll. It is an ascent of moderate difficulty in which you can climb to the geodesic vertex which is next to a forest observatory. From the top there is a beautiful panoramic view. The route to this summit can be started from Benigembla. Or, from Castell de Castells passing quite close to the natural area of Els Arcs. The last section towards the Cim del Cocoll along the PR-CV 427 runs near the Paraje de Els Arcs. In fact, you begin to climb along a track in good condition at just over 722 meters above sea level that leads towards the location of the Corrales de Plans d'Aialt. Although, the first 400 meters along this track do not have a slope. There is no doubt that it is a spectacular natural environment. And, walking along the track that leads to Cocoll, you will also see Es Crestall and Es Pla de Sa Cova.
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Very nice tour (medium difficulty) to do in the Calpe region.
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Beautiful views, beautiful forest paths
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The region around Parcent offers diverse mountain experiences. The **Sierra de Bernia** is a protected mountainous area known for its spectacular hiking, including the Bèrnia Fort and the unique natural tunnel, El Forat. Another prominent feature is **Coll de Rates**, a renowned mountain pass popular with cyclists, offering panoramic views towards the Costa Blanca and the Bernia range.
Yes, there are options suitable for families. The Summit of Mount d'Olta (587 m) is considered family-friendly, offering an easy path with wonderful panoramic views of Calpe and the Penyal d'Ifac. Additionally, the Cave of the Skulls is a natural and historical site that is ideal for visiting with children, especially in summer due to its cool temperature.
You can expect to see significant limestone ridges, diverse landscapes, and unique natural formations. The **Sierra de Bernia** features 'El Forat,' a natural tunnel passing through the mountain. Many peaks, like Mirador de Cocoll, offer geodesic vertices and forest observatories, providing stunning panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and coastline.
Yes, the region boasts historical significance. The Bèrnia Fort, located on the southern slope of the Sierra de Bernia, is a 16th-century military fortress ordered by Philip II. It is declared an Asset of Cultural Interest and offers strategic views and a glimpse into Renaissance military architecture. The Cave of the Skulls also holds historical importance as one of the oldest caves in the Valencian Community, revealing insights into ancient human life.
The area around Parcent is excellent for various outdoor activities. **Coll de Rates** is a prime destination for road cycling, attracting both amateurs and professionals. For hikers, the **Sierra de Bernia** offers the popular circular route, Ruta del Forat de Bernia (PR-CV 7). You can also find numerous hiking, gravel biking, and running trails. For more detailed routes, explore the Hiking around Parcent, Gravel biking around Parcent, and Running Trails around Parcent guides.
For breathtaking views, consider the Summit of Mount d'Olta (587 m), which provides unparalleled vistas of Calpe and the Penyal d'Ifac. The Mirador de Cocoll also offers a beautiful panoramic view from its geodesic vertex. Additionally, the Morro Blau - Serra de l'Aixorta, at 1,125 meters, boasts amazing 360-degree views stretching across the Marina Alta, Marina Baja, and the Mediterranean Sea from Denia to Altea.
Hiking durations vary depending on the route and your pace. For example, the popular circular route of **Sierra de Bernia (PR-CV 7)**, which includes sights like the Bèrnia Fort and El Forat, typically takes 4-5 hours to complete its 9 km and 400m elevation gain. Shorter, lighter hikes are also available, such as the trail to Bèrnia Fort itself.
The difficulty levels range from easy to difficult. The path to the Summit of Mount d'Olta (587 m) is considered easy. The circular route of **Sierra de Bernia (PR-CV 7)** is a medium-difficulty hike. More challenging routes exist, such as the 'Super Rates' climb extending beyond **Coll de Rates** for cyclists, or the 'Sierra del Carrascal de Parcent (Circular PR-CV 158)' which is a difficult hiking route.
Yes, particularly at popular spots. At the summit of **Coll de Rates**, there is a restaurant where you can recharge and enjoy the views. For other trails, it's advisable to check local amenities in nearby villages like Parcent, Alcalalí, or Benigembla before heading out, as direct trailside cafes might be limited.
The **Sierra de Bernia** is known for its rich biodiversity, benefiting from unique bioclimatic conditions. You might spot various flora and diverse fauna, including foxes, badgers, wild boars, and a wide array of birds of prey. These mountains serve as a transition zone between humid northern and drier southern regions, contributing to their ecological variety.
Visitors frequently praise the stunning panoramic views, especially from spots like the Summit of Mount d'Olta (587 m) and Morro Blau - Serra de l'Aixorta. The unique natural formations, such as 'El Forat' in the Sierra de Bernia, and the historical significance of sites like the Bèrnia Fort, are also highly appreciated. The tranquility and the opportunity for varied outdoor activities like cycling and hiking are major draws.


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