The best walks and hikes around Marquesado

The circular route to Penyal d'Ifac from Calpe offers a dual hiking experience, starting with a gentle stroll along a paved, shaded path that leads to the Ifach Rock Tunnel. Beyond this, the terrain transforms into a challenging rocky ascent that requires scrambling and using chains, rewarding you with 360-degree panoramic views from the Peñón de Ifac summit. This is a difficult 7.1-kilometer hike with 389 meters of elevation gain, taking approximately 2 hours and 49 minutes, ideal for those seeking a challenge with significant visual rewards.

To embark on this adventure, it is essential to book a free permit in advance through the official Parques de la Comunidad Valenciana website, as access is limited to 300 people per day to protect the ecosystem. Make sure to wear hiking footwear with good grip, as the limestone rock can be slippery, especially after rain. The first part is suitable for everyone, but the upper section is not recommended for small children or individuals with limited experience on steep terrain.

Penyal d'Ifac is not only an impressive geological landmark but also a natural park that hosts exceptional biodiversity, with over 300 plant species and around 80 bird species. From the Carabineros Viewpoint and the summit, you can admire the city of Calpe, the Mediterranean, and the Salinas, offering a unique perspective of the Costa Blanca. This location is an olistolith, a mass of rock pushed up by tectonic plates, making it a singular natural phenomenon.

Immerse yourself in a dramatic and history-rich landscape with The Cathedral of Hiking (PR-CV 147), a circular trail that plunges you into the heart of Barranc de l'Infern. The experience is defined by its more than 6,000 stone steps, a feat of Moorish engineering that winds between imposing limestone rock faces, offering constant views of the canyon. It's a demanding hike, but one that rewards you with the wild beauty of nature and the echoes of times past.

To plan your visit to this 13.7-kilometer trail, with an elevation gain of 694 meters and an estimated duration of 5 hours and 33 minutes, be aware that it is a difficult route. Avoid the summer months due to extreme heat; the best time of year to hike The Cathedral of Hiking PR-CV 147 is late winter or early spring. Be sure to carry plenty of water, at least four or five liters per person, and trekking poles will be a great help on the more challenging sections.

Known as "The Cathedral of Hiking" for its thousands of steps, this route is a living testament to the cultural and geological heritage of the area. The dry stone steps, built by the Moors, have been recognized by UNESCO, adding a layer of historical significance to your adventure. In addition to its cultural value, Barranc de l'Infern is notable for its geological and botanical richness, making this trail a unique gem in the province of Alicante.

Hike a moderate 2.6-mile loop to the unique Cova Tallada sea cave from Les Rotes, Denia, with stunning coastal views.

This easy 2.7-mile (4.4 km) hiking loop in Parc Natural del Montgó features historical windmills and a picnic area with sea views.