Best attractions and places to see around Benimantell, a village located in the Guadalest Valley on the northern slope of the Sierra de Aitana. This region offers a combination of natural beauty and cultural sites. The area is characterized by its mountain scenery, traditional architecture, and proximity to the Guadalest Reservoir.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
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Good paved road, moderate traffic. Views of the reservoir, the Aitana and Serrella mountain ranges, and villages like Beniardà and Benimantell.
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Tough but with magnificent views. Relatively quiet road.
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If there’s one climb that defines cycling on the Costa Blanca, it’s Coll de Rates. Starting from the village of Parcent, this legendary ascent has become a must-ride for cyclists from around the world — from weekend warriors to Tour de France champions. The climb is just under 7 km long, with an average gradient of around 5%, making it both accessible and rhythmical. The road surface is excellent, the curves are elegant, and the views just keep getting better as you rise above the valley. This is no secret among the pros. Riders from Jumbo-Visma, INEOS, UAE Team Emirates and others regularly use Coll de Rates for winter training. Tadej Pogačar currently holds the Strava KOM, which says a lot about the kind of names that have tested themselves here. On clear days, the view from the top is simply breathtaking — stretching all the way across the coastline, and if you’re lucky, even Ibiza shimmers faintly on the horizon. There’s a café at the summit (seasonal), and the descent toward Tarbena or Castell de Castells is just as rewarding. With its mix of scenery, steady gradients and cycling history, Coll de Rates is one of the most climbed — and most loved — ascents in the world. If you ride only one climb in the region, make it this one.
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Tucked away in the mountains between Tàrbena and Castell de Castells, the Puerto de Sa Creueta offers two distinct climbing experiences — and both are worth riding. From Tàrbena, the climb is friendly and scenic. You’ll face about 4 km of steady climbing at around 5%, followed by a rolling 3.5 km section with gentle ups and downs. Just before the top, a short final ramp kicks up sharply to around 12%, but overall this side is rhythmical and not too demanding. The road is wide, smooth and virtually traffic-free, ideal for a relaxed climb. Approaching via the Castell de Castells side, from Tollos or from Benigembla and the Vall de Pop, is a whole different story. After a relatively calm start, the climb hits hard with a 2 km stretch averaging around 10% — sustained, steep, and guaranteed to get your legs burning. This side is definitely more challenging, and a great test for climbers. No matter which direction you choose, you’ll be rewarded with expansive views over the valley near Tàrbena, the rugged peaks of the Marina mountains, and — on a clear day — even the Mediterranean Sea and the skyline of Altea shimmering in the distance. Puerto de Sa Creueta is a hidden gem: peaceful, beautiful and tougher than it looks, especially if you come at it from the inland side. Combine it with Coll de Rates for an unforgettable day in the heart of the Costa Blanca.
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The Coll de Rates consistently ranks in the top ten of the most ridden mountains every year. Pro riders compete for the best times.
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The times I have gone up from Xalo, I have found few cars, a bit bumpy. The descent towards Benissa is very long, well paved but bumpy and prepare the brakes.
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Stop for a moment and enjoy the peace and the view of the beautiful nature. And look forward to the descent! 😉
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Benimantell is a fantastic base for outdoor enthusiasts. You can explore numerous hiking trails in the surrounding Sierra de Aitana, which is the highest peak in Alicante. Cycling is also very popular, with renowned mountain passes like Coll de Rates and Sa Creueta Pass offering scenic routes. The Guadalest Reservoir is perfect for cycling around its perimeter, and the area also offers climbing and canyoning opportunities.
Absolutely. Benimantell itself retains a charming rural character with narrow, traditional streets and farmhouses reflecting Arab origins. The central Plaza Mayor features the Parish Church of San Vicente Mártir with its distinctive blue-domed tower. Just a short distance away, the iconic Guadalest Castle, perched on a rock, offers stunning views and a glimpse into the region's history. You can also find the Museu Vehicles Històrics Vall de Guadalest nearby.
The region is rich in natural beauty. Benimantell is nestled on the northern slope of the Sierra de Aitana, offering breathtaking mountain scenery. The Guadalest Reservoir is a significant natural landmark with its turquoise waters. The area is also home to several natural springs like Font del Molí and Font de l'Arc, perfect for tranquil walks. A short drive will take you to Les Fonts d'Algar, a series of natural waterfalls and pools ideal for swimming and picnicking.
Yes, the area offers several options for families. The walk around the Guadalest Reservoir is generally easy and enjoyable for all ages. Les Fonts d'Algar, with its natural pools and waterfalls, is a popular spot for families to swim and explore. Many of the village's traditional streets and the views from Guadalest Castle can also be fascinating for children.
For truly stunning vistas, head to Coll de Rates, where on clear days you can see across the coastline, potentially even to Ibiza. Sa Creueta Pass also provides expansive views over the valley and the Mediterranean Sea. The viewpoint from Guadalest Castle overlooking the reservoir and surrounding mountains is another must-see.
Yes, Benimantell offers several options for easy walks. The paths around the natural springs like Font del Molí are generally gentle. The walk around the Guadalest Reservoir is also considered easy and manageable. While specific dog-friendly designations aren't always marked, many of the natural trails and rural roads are suitable for walks with dogs, provided they are kept under control.
The spring and autumn months (April-May and September-October) are generally ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling around Benimantell. The weather is pleasantly mild, making it comfortable for longer excursions. Summers can be hot, especially for strenuous activities, but the natural springs and Les Fonts d'Algar offer refreshing options. Winters are typically mild, allowing for year-round exploration, though some higher mountain trails might be cooler.
Beyond the well-known spots, exploring the countryside around Benimantell can reveal ancient thousand-year-old olive trees and traditional country houses. The village itself, with its preserved traditional architecture and devotional ceramic panels on house facades, offers a glimpse into authentic Spanish village life. The various natural springs also provide quiet, less-frequented spots for peaceful contemplation.
Benimantell is a cyclist's paradise. You'll find a variety of road cycling routes, including challenging climbs like the 'Puerto de Confrides and Coll de Rates Loop' or the 'Barranco del Portet Road – Confrides Pass loop from Benimantell'. For gravel biking, routes like 'Sa Creueta Pass (780 m) – Sa Creueta Pass loop from Castell de Castells' offer a different experience. You can find more details on these and other routes in the Road Cycling Routes around Benimantell and Gravel biking around Benimantell guides.
Visitors frequently praise the stunning panoramic views from mountain passes like Coll de Rates and Sa Creueta Pass. The picturesque Guadalest Reservoir is loved for its beautiful scenery and easy cycling paths. The overall combination of natural beauty, challenging cycling routes, and the tranquility of the traditional villages makes the area highly appealing.
For those seeking more challenging mountain hikes, the area around Benimantell, particularly within the Sierra de Aitana, offers several options. Trails like 'El Puigcampana – el Collado del Pouet loop from Finestrat' or 'Tossal d'Avellà – el Puigcampana loop from Finestrat' provide demanding ascents and rewarding views. You can explore more detailed routes in the Mountain Hikes around Benimantell guide.
While Benimantell is a rural area, it's generally best accessed by car. Parking is usually available within the village center and at popular attraction points like Guadalest Castle. For specific public transport options to Benimantell or its surrounding attractions, it's advisable to check local bus schedules or regional transport websites. For general information about Benimantell, you might find details on the Visit Benidorm website: visitbenidorm.es.


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