The 13 Most Amazing Peaks around Petrer

Two of the most popular and emblematic peaks in the region are La Silla del Cid Summit and Maigmó Summit. La Silla del Cid is known for its imposing saddle shape and fantastic views, while Maigmó Summit, the highest in the Sierra del Maigmó, offers exceptional panoramic views stretching from Benidorm to Torrevieja.

The mountains around Petrer, particularly within the Sierra del Maigmó and Sierra del Cid Protected Landscapes, are rich in Mediterranean flora and fauna. You'll find dense pine and holm oak forests, including exceptional specimens of Aleppo pine. The area is also home to aromatic plants, wild boars, and various bird species. The peaks themselves offer stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and coastline.

Yes, for adventure seekers, La Silla del Cid Summit features the oldest via ferrata in Alicante province. This approximately 300-meter-long route is very vertical and aerial, requiring climbing skills (up to IVº to IVº+) to reach the peak. Additionally, the ascent to Maigmó Summit from the Rabosa recreational area in Petrer offers a longer, more in-depth route for experienced hikers.

The protected landscapes around Petrer contain a rich cultural heritage. In the Sierra del Maigmó area, you can find old farmhouses and snow pits, which serve as reminders of local traditions. La Silla del Cid Summit also has a local legend associated with El Cid Campeador's horse, Babieca, adding a historical and mythical layer to its allure.

The climate in the Petrer mountains is Mediterranean, but due to altitude, it can be slightly continental. While the area experiences abundant rainfall, frequent frosts, and occasional snow in winter, spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant temperatures for hiking and outdoor activities. Summer can be very hot, making early morning or late afternoon hikes preferable.

While some routes can be challenging, there are options for families. For instance, a popular ascent to Maigmó Summit starts from the 'Balcón de Alicante' in Tibi, which is a well-regarded picnic and recreation area, potentially offering more accessible starting points for shorter walks or easier sections.

From Maigmó Summit, due to its height and proximity to the sea, you can enjoy exceptional panoramic views that encompass the entire coastal strip from Benidorm to Torrevieja. La Silla del Cid Summit also offers fantastic views from its peak, making both excellent destinations for scenic overlooks.

Beyond hiking, the region offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous running trails, such as the 'River – Cid Summit loop from Petrer' or 'Forest Ranger's Hut – Cumbre del Cid (1,152 m) loop from Petrer'. For mountain biking enthusiasts, there are routes like the 'Chapel of Our Lady of Sorrows – La Colonia de Santa Eulalia loop from Petrer'. Cyclists can also explore routes like 'Ermita Virgen de los Dolores – Colonia de Santa Eulalia loop from Petrer'. You can find more details on these activities on the respective guide pages for Running Trails around Petrer, MTB Trails around Petrer, and Cycling around Petrer.

Yes, there are several hiking trails. For example, to reach Maigmó Summit, you can start from the 'Balcón de Alicante' in Tibi or, for a more challenging experience, from the Rabosa recreational area in Petrer. The Sierra del Cid also offers various routes, including the notable via ferrata on La Silla del Cid Summit. Many of these trails are part of the broader network of Running Trails around Petrer, which includes routes like the 'River – Cid Summit loop'.

Visitors appreciate the exceptional panoramic views from summits like Maigmó Summit, which allows sight of the entire coastal strip. The rich natural environment, with its pine and holm oak forests, is also highly valued for connecting with nature. The challenging routes, such as the via ferrata on La Silla del Cid Summit, are a draw for more adventurous hikers.

Yes, Despeñador Peak is located in the heart of the Serra del Maigmó, offering a privileged place surrounded by forest-covered mountains. It features a geodesic vertex at 1261 meters and is known for its summit access chimney, which provides a fun alternative to the traditional trail. The area also includes camping and picnic spots, and is famous for the steep slopes that have challenged cyclists in the Vuelta Ciclista a España.

The Maigmó and Sit Mountains form a significant forest core, characterized by extensive pine and holm oak forests. This protected landscape rises to over 1200 meters, with Maigmó Summit being its highest point. It's a place where you can truly connect with nature, experiencing the typical Mediterranean landscape with its unique flora and fauna.