Spain

Spain - Trekking in the Sierra de Aitana

8 days · Group · from €1,535.00
‹ Adventure Europe
Duration
8 days
Start/End
Guadalest
Tour type
Group
Accommodation
Hostel
Price from · per person
€1,535.00
Dates & prices ›
Price from · per person
€1,535.00
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Spain - Trekking in the Sierra de Aitana

Duration

8 days

Start/End

Guadalest

Tour type

Group

Level

Demanding

Accommodation

Hostel

Overview

From Guadalest you hike through a rugged Mediterranean mountain world that is still a well-kept secret: to the Penya Roc pinnacles, the Morro Blau and up the summits of Serrella, Puig Campana and Aitana, each with around 1,000 metres of ascent. Long stages of 15 to 20 km with views of the sparkling sea.

You lace up your hiking boots and immerse yourself in a rugged, Mediterranean mountain world, where ancient paths and narrow mule tracks lead you through a landscape full of contrasts. With every step, breathtaking new views open up, revealing the glittering Mediterranean Sea far below, sparkling in the sun. The Sierra de Aitana accompanies you with its wild, unspoiled beauty – a mountain range that, despite its proximity to the Costa Blanca, is still considered a true hidden gem. Off the beaten track, you leave the few other visitors behind and hike deep into the mountains. Along spectacular ridge lines, you reach impressive rock amphitheaters of bizarrely shaped limestone and descend into steep gorges where the silence is broken only by the wind and the calls of birds. Idyllic valleys with natural springs invite you to pause, while in the distance, castles repeatedly appear on the hills – silent witnesses to bygone eras. A special highlight awaits you in picturesque Guadalest, whose castle sits dramatically atop a rock, watching over the valley. Around 300 days of sunshine a year make this intensive trekking tour an ideal adventure, especially in spring and autumn. Far from the summer heat, you'll experience rocky peaks, wild gorges, and boundless panoramas – a journey that will let you feel the full fascination of this unique mountain world.

Hiking
Culture
Mountains
Food & drink

Tour Code

ESALC001

Tour language

EnglishEnglish

Itinerary

  • Day 1
    Guadalest

    Hostel

    Your adventure begins at our guesthouse in the small village of Guadalest, nestled halfway up the valley on the northern side of the majestic Aitana massif. The location alone hints at what awaits you: mountains, vast open spaces, and a landscape steeped in history. As the journey to this remote region can take some time, we recommend planning your trip to take advantage of the convenient group transfer from Alicante Airport. You'll arrive at the guesthouse in the evening, where you'll meet your fellow travelers at a welcome meeting. Together with your guide, you'll prepare for the coming days, discuss the route – and the anticipation for the trekking adventure ahead will grow with every passing minute.

    Guadalest

    Day 1

    Hostel

    Your adventure begins at our guesthouse in the small village of Guadalest, nestled halfway up the valley on the northern side of the majestic Aitana massif. The location alone hints at what awaits you: mountains, vast open spaces, and a landscape steeped in history. As the journey to this remote region can take some time, we recommend planning your trip to take advantage of the convenient group transfer from Alicante Airport. You'll arrive at the guesthouse in the evening, where you'll meet your fellow travelers at a welcome meeting. Together with your guide, you'll prepare for the coming days, discuss the route – and the anticipation for the trekking adventure ahead will grow with every passing minute.

  • Day 2
    Hike to the limestone pinnacles of Penya Roc - descent via El Salt to Collado Papatxi

    Hostel

    Walking time approx. 5 hours, hiking distance approx. 13 km, ascent 650 m, descent 650 m

    You set off towards Racó de Tovaines and soon reach the spectacular limestone cliffs and pinnacles of Penya Roc. Between rugged formations and bizarrely towering peaks, you continue your hike through El Salt up to Collado Papatxi. This area seems almost unreal: enormous rock faces surround you, and everywhere stone towers rise into the sky, as if sculpted by wind and time itself. As you continue your hike, the sun begins to slowly sink. The first warm rays of sunset bathe the rugged Castellets mountain range, which stretches all the way to Orxeta, in a magical light. Crossing the Pas del Comptador, you finally return to Guadalest – filled with impressions of a landscape that becomes more dramatic and captivating with every step.

    Hike to the limestone pinnacles of Penya Roc - descent via El Salt to Collado Papatxi

    Day 2

    Hostel

    Walking time approx. 5 hours, hiking distance approx. 13 km, ascent 650 m, descent 650 m

    You set off towards Racó de Tovaines and soon reach the spectacular limestone cliffs and pinnacles of Penya Roc. Between rugged formations and bizarrely towering peaks, you continue your hike through El Salt up to Collado Papatxi. This area seems almost unreal: enormous rock faces surround you, and everywhere stone towers rise into the sky, as if sculpted by wind and time itself. As you continue your hike, the sun begins to slowly sink. The first warm rays of sunset bathe the rugged Castellets mountain range, which stretches all the way to Orxeta, in a magical light. Crossing the Pas del Comptador, you finally return to Guadalest – filled with impressions of a landscape that becomes more dramatic and captivating with every step.

  • Day 3
    Hike to Morro Blau - descent along the Peña del Rastrell

    Hostel

    Walking time approx. 7.5-8 hours, hiking distance approx. 17 km, ascent 1050 m, descent 1050 m

    You begin your hike at the tranquil reservoir and follow the recently restored, traditional Solana de Gorgues trail. Step by step, you work your way uphill, the landscape changing with every meter of elevation gained. After a challenging climb of around 700 meters, you finally reach the Font Major spring – a refreshing spot that revitalizes you after your exertion. From here, the trail leads you across the high pastures of Foia Plana towards Morro Blau. The striking rock formation accompanies you from afar and is visible from many points along the coast. Near the fire lookout tower, you take a well-deserved break and enjoy your lunch with sweeping views of the mountains and sea. Refreshed, you continue your hike and descend via Peña del Rastrell back down to the reservoir – an impressive circular route that vividly showcases the diversity of this mountain landscape.

    Hike to Morro Blau - descent along the Peña del Rastrell

    Day 3

    Hostel

    Walking time approx. 7.5-8 hours, hiking distance approx. 17 km, ascent 1050 m, descent 1050 m

    You begin your hike at the tranquil reservoir and follow the recently restored, traditional Solana de Gorgues trail. Step by step, you work your way uphill, the landscape changing with every meter of elevation gained. After a challenging climb of around 700 meters, you finally reach the Font Major spring – a refreshing spot that revitalizes you after your exertion. From here, the trail leads you across the high pastures of Foia Plana towards Morro Blau. The striking rock formation accompanies you from afar and is visible from many points along the coast. Near the fire lookout tower, you take a well-deserved break and enjoy your lunch with sweeping views of the mountains and sea. Refreshed, you continue your hike and descend via Peña del Rastrell back down to the reservoir – an impressive circular route that vividly showcases the diversity of this mountain landscape.

  • Day 4
    Ascent of the Serrella summit with views of the Aitana range; descent via a magnificent gorge to Abdet

    Hostel

    Walking time approx. 7-8 hours, hiking distance approx. 15 km, ascent 980 m, descent 980 m

    After a short transfer to Abdet, you lace up your hiking boots again, and the ascent to the shady Ombria La Pisa begins. The trail leads you past El Contador at an altitude of about 1,000 meters and continues along the western ridge of the Serrella mountain range. With every step, you gain altitude until you finally reach the Mallada del Llop at 1,361 meters. Here, you'll usually take a well-deserved picnic break and have the opportunity to visit one of the largest and best-preserved snow pits in the Valencia region – impressive relics of bygone eras. While you rest, your gaze wanders across the vast mountain landscape of the Aitana range. On clear days, the view even extends to the mountains around Valencia, allowing you to truly grasp the scale of this landscape. Refreshed, you then begin the long descent. Initially, the path descends steeply in tight switchbacks over rocky scree; sure-footedness is required in places, and some light scrambling is part of the adventure. Further down, the terrain becomes gentler, and you hike through an idyllic cultural landscape with terraced olive groves and ancient carob trees. Finally, you reach the village of Abdet again, from where you return to your accommodation – fulfilled by another exhilarating day in the mountains.

    Ascent of the Serrella summit with views of the Aitana range; descent via a magnificent gorge to Abdet

    Day 4

    Hostel

    Walking time approx. 7-8 hours, hiking distance approx. 15 km, ascent 980 m, descent 980 m

    After a short transfer to Abdet, you lace up your hiking boots again, and the ascent to the shady Ombria La Pisa begins. The trail leads you past El Contador at an altitude of about 1,000 meters and continues along the western ridge of the Serrella mountain range. With every step, you gain altitude until you finally reach the Mallada del Llop at 1,361 meters. Here, you'll usually take a well-deserved picnic break and have the opportunity to visit one of the largest and best-preserved snow pits in the Valencia region – impressive relics of bygone eras. While you rest, your gaze wanders across the vast mountain landscape of the Aitana range. On clear days, the view even extends to the mountains around Valencia, allowing you to truly grasp the scale of this landscape. Refreshed, you then begin the long descent. Initially, the path descends steeply in tight switchbacks over rocky scree; sure-footedness is required in places, and some light scrambling is part of the adventure. Further down, the terrain becomes gentler, and you hike through an idyllic cultural landscape with terraced olive groves and ancient carob trees. Finally, you reach the village of Abdet again, from where you return to your accommodation – fulfilled by another exhilarating day in the mountains.

  • Day 5
    Leisure time

    Hostel

    Today is yours to enjoy. Unwind, reflect on your hikes, and recharge. Perhaps you'll be drawn to the beach at Villajoyosa, where the inviting sea beckons and the colorful coastal houses exude Mediterranean charm. Or maybe you'll take the opportunity to visit one of the region's traditional chocolate factories and immerse yourself in its sweet history. Whether you choose relaxation or exploration, this free day offers you the space to continue your adventure at your own pace.

    Leisure time

    Day 5

    Hostel

    Today is yours to enjoy. Unwind, reflect on your hikes, and recharge. Perhaps you'll be drawn to the beach at Villajoyosa, where the inviting sea beckons and the colorful coastal houses exude Mediterranean charm. Or maybe you'll take the opportunity to visit one of the region's traditional chocolate factories and immerse yourself in its sweet history. Whether you choose relaxation or exploration, this free day offers you the space to continue your adventure at your own pace.

  • Day 6
    Ascent of Puig Campana (1,410 m)

    Hostel

    Walking time approx. 7.5 hours, hiking distance approx. 14 km, ascent 995 m, descent 995 m

    Today a challenging summit tour awaits you: You'll set off for the 1,410-meter-high Puig Campana. The excitement builds even during the ascent, because once you reach the top, a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view unfolds before you. Almost all the peaks and ridges you've crossed in recent days lie at your feet, while on the other side, the Mediterranean Sea stretches to the horizon. You begin by hiking along well-maintained paths and narrow trails towards the north face, where the ascent gradually becomes more challenging. Passing the Collao del Llamp, you reach the Collao Pouet, the foot of Puig Campana. From here, the climb becomes steep: you ascend the north flank of this impressive mountain over rocky terrain. Sure-footedness is essential, and some sections require a bit of easy scrambling. The summit experience rewards every effort before you descend via Casa de Dios and finally return to your vehicle – tired, but fulfilled by one of the great highlights of this trip. Note: In some cases, the order of the hikes on days 6 and 7 may vary. If this is the case, you will climb the Aitana summit today.

    Ascent of Puig Campana (1,410 m)

    Day 6

    Hostel

    Walking time approx. 7.5 hours, hiking distance approx. 14 km, ascent 995 m, descent 995 m

    Today a challenging summit tour awaits you: You'll set off for the 1,410-meter-high Puig Campana. The excitement builds even during the ascent, because once you reach the top, a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view unfolds before you. Almost all the peaks and ridges you've crossed in recent days lie at your feet, while on the other side, the Mediterranean Sea stretches to the horizon. You begin by hiking along well-maintained paths and narrow trails towards the north face, where the ascent gradually becomes more challenging. Passing the Collao del Llamp, you reach the Collao Pouet, the foot of Puig Campana. From here, the climb becomes steep: you ascend the north flank of this impressive mountain over rocky terrain. Sure-footedness is essential, and some sections require a bit of easy scrambling. The summit experience rewards every effort before you descend via Casa de Dios and finally return to your vehicle – tired, but fulfilled by one of the great highlights of this trip. Note: In some cases, the order of the hikes on days 6 and 7 may vary. If this is the case, you will climb the Aitana summit today.

  • Day 7
    Hike along the dramatic Simas limestone cliffs; option to climb Aitana peak.

    Hostel

    Walking time approx. 8 hours, hiking distance approx. 18 km, ascent 1107 m, descent 1107 m

    Directly from your accommodation, you set off on your hike, ascending the northern slopes to the Font de Partagat spring. Even here, you'll feel immersed in a wild mountain world. From the spring begins what is probably the most exciting part of the day: the climb through the Pas de la Rabosa – the only natural passage to reach the summit of Aitana from the north side. As you gain altitude, the landscape becomes more dramatic. Around midday, you'll reach the spectacular Simas, a fascinating karst landscape with limestone fissures up to 90 meters deep, opening along a narrow ridge near the summit. This extraordinary spot provides the perfect setting for a picnic break with sweeping panoramic views of the mountains and the sea. Weather permitting, you then have the option of climbing to the summit of Aitana and savoring the moment at the top. Afterwards, a long, scenic descent back to the valley follows – a fitting end to an impressive day in the mountains.

    Hike along the dramatic Simas limestone cliffs; option to climb Aitana peak.

    Day 7

    Hostel

    Walking time approx. 8 hours, hiking distance approx. 18 km, ascent 1107 m, descent 1107 m

    Directly from your accommodation, you set off on your hike, ascending the northern slopes to the Font de Partagat spring. Even here, you'll feel immersed in a wild mountain world. From the spring begins what is probably the most exciting part of the day: the climb through the Pas de la Rabosa – the only natural passage to reach the summit of Aitana from the north side. As you gain altitude, the landscape becomes more dramatic. Around midday, you'll reach the spectacular Simas, a fascinating karst landscape with limestone fissures up to 90 meters deep, opening along a narrow ridge near the summit. This extraordinary spot provides the perfect setting for a picnic break with sweeping panoramic views of the mountains and the sea. Weather permitting, you then have the option of climbing to the summit of Aitana and savoring the moment at the top. Afterwards, a long, scenic descent back to the valley follows – a fitting end to an impressive day in the mountains.

  • Day 8
    Guadalest

    After breakfast in Guadalest, your journey comes to an end. With a final glance at the mountains, you bid farewell to this impressive landscape that has accompanied you over the past few days. If you would like to join the group transfer back to Alicante Airport, please indicate this when booking. The transfer departs at a fixed time – details are available upon request.

    Guadalest

    Day 8

    After breakfast in Guadalest, your journey comes to an end. With a final glance at the mountains, you bid farewell to this impressive landscape that has accompanied you over the past few days. If you would like to join the group transfer back to Alicante Airport, please indicate this when booking. The transfer departs at a fixed time – details are available upon request.

Price

€1,535.00

Phone: +43 512 209071

Services

What's included

  • 7x Standard Hotel

  • 7x breakfast, 5x packed lunch, 6x dinner

  • Group transfer to/from Alicante airport on the arrival and departure day.

  • All transport as described in the minibus

  • Local, English-speaking hiking guide

What's not included

  • Individual travel to and from the destination (we are happy to put together a suitable offer)

  • Travel insurance (we are happy to put together an individual offer)

  • personal equipment

  • Tip

Character of the trip

Fitness

Demanding

Altitude

Low

Culture / nature

Pure nature

You should be in good physical condition and able to handle altitudes and difficult terrain. The hiking routes are all quite long (approximately 15-20 km per day) and vary in duration from up to 8 hours per day (including breaks). The hikes are rather demanding – over five days we will climb three peaks: Serrella (1,361 m), Puig Campana (1,410 m), and Aitana (1,558 m), with approximately 1,000 m of ascent and descent each day.

Most of the paths we follow are footpaths and trails. Some sections are gently ascending, while others lead over fairly steep rocky paths (sometimes with scree slopes), and there are some longer ascents/descents. We also hike through some rough terrain.

This tour is suitable for anyone in good health and fitness. It is not recommended for beginners. It is best suited for those who hike regularly in the mountains and have prepared themselves physically beforehand.

It is also possible to stay at the accommodation and undertake your own hikes or other activities from there. The Sierra de Aitana is very rich in flora and fauna, and along the hiking trails we will see a great variety of birds and flowers. Castles and fortresses can be seen in the distance, we will visit springs and snow fountains, and have plenty of time to enjoy village life.

In the evenings, the hosts of our cozy, family-run village guesthouse make sure we feel at home.

Dates and prices

January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December

Group dates

  • Accommodation is in a double room; solo travelers share the room with a fellow traveler of the same gender – if you would like a single room, we will gladly book this for you as an optional extra charge.

Notes on the trip

Accommodation

We're staying at the charming Rincón de Pepe, a small two-star guesthouse in the heart of Benimantell, about 60 km from Alicante – far from the crowded Costa Blanca. The location is perfect for our adventure: short transfer times to our hikes and breathtaking views stretching all the way to the Mediterranean. The guesthouse has only eight rooms, all boasting sea views and greeting us each morning with an unforgettable sunrise. The cozy restaurant with its fireplace becomes a special highlight on the last evening of the week: our guide prepares a traditional paella and serves it with local vermouth – a delicious end to our hiking week. In winter, the fireplace even transforms into a rustic barbecue, where sausages and vegetables are cooked for a communal dinner.

Accommodation amenities

A special bonus: A private back entrance, reserved exclusively for our group, leads directly to a separate lounge. Here we also find a convenient area to safely store our hiking gear, boots, and walking sticks. Amenities at a glance: Restaurant serving traditional, regional dishes, sun terrace with stunning views, storage room for wet equipment and a clothes dryer, comfortable lounge area with seating, and – available around the clock – tea, coffee, books, and card games.

Meals

The hosts value regionality: they produce their own olive oil from the surrounding olive groves, and during the winter season, we can squeeze fresh orange juice from their own oranges every morning. On all five evenings, we enjoy regional wines or soft drinks and beer. Breakfast: Continental – local fruit, fresh orange juice, various breads, cakes, cheese, ham or bacon, tea, and coffee. Lunch: The picnic lunch usually consists of sandwiches with cheese and salad/meat, fruit, granola bars, biscuits, or nuts. The local guide typically also provides small snacks such as pickled olives, chocolates, and dried figs. Dinner: As the main meal of the day, we enjoy a wide selection of local dishes such as espencat, minxos (small pancakes), and oven-baked rice. Most dishes are freshly prepared using local, seasonal produce, and the olive oil is produced by the guesthouse itself. A reasonable amount of local wine is served with dinner, but other drinks are not included.

Dietary requirements & mealtimes

Vegetarians and vegans are well catered for with prior notice, and most other dietary requirements can also be accommodated, provided you inform us in advance (at the time of booking). Dinner times in Spain are later than in many other countries; dinner is usually eaten between 8:00 and 9:30 pm.

Notice in accordance with EU Directive 2015/2302:

This trip is not suitable for people with reduced mobility.