We know that when you think of the Marina Alta, the first thing that pops into your mind is the large number of blue flag beaches and coves that spread across its coastline. It’s only natural to instantly daydream of enjoying crystalline waters during the beautiful sunny days that Alicante always has to offer. However, we’re here to tell you that you can also find a large variety of outdoor activities near your home in Cumbre del Sol! The Marina Alta has a wealth of tourist destinations and natural parks that are the ideal way to spend a day out in the fresh air.
We’ll start our tour of the Marina Alta in Javea, which is just a 20-minute drive away from Cumbre del Sol. This coastal town has over a dozen observation decks where you can take in the Mediterranean Sea and its stunning natural surroundings like never before. Start your tour at the Mirador de Els Molins, an old watchtower that overlooks the town as well as the blue waters. Make sure to also visit famous observation decks such as the Mirador del Cap Negre, considered to have the best view in all of Javea, and Mirador de La Falzia, with the most impressive panoramic views of the coastline and Portitxol Island.
A little further north is Montgo Mountain, between Javea and Denia. The mountain and its natural park are considered emblems of not just the Marina Alta, but Alicante and the Valencian region itself. Affectionately known as ‘The Elephant’ by locals, this beast might be a little difficult for some to conquer as parts of its hiking route are harder to cross. However, we recommend you give it a try just to visit caves like the Cova de L’aigua and Cova del Gamell. With unforgettable interiors and beautiful views to the rest of the mountain and area, we’re sure you won’t regret the visit!
South of Cumbre del Sol is Calpe, home of the impressive Peñón de Ifach. This imposing rock formation has a natural park at the top with views all the way to Ibiza. It also has an observation deck at the outskirts of the town, the Mirador Monte Toix. We’re sure the views of Calpe’s skyline with Peñón de Ifach at a distance will leave you absolutely breathless. Near the town centre, you’ll also find salt flats, a pocket of nature among the buildings where you can spot flocks of flamingos.
The interior of the Marina Alta also offers some authentic gems that every nature-lover should make sure to visit. La Vall d’Alcalà is a truly remarkable valley that’s rich in history. Within it, you’ll find famous caves such as the subterranean Cueva del Rull, which looks like a fantasy movie come to life. If you’re interested in the prehistoric, we recommend visiting the Sanctuary of Pla de Petracos, which has many cave paintings within its walls.
Nearby, there’s the Barranc de l’Encantada where you can go on an enchanting route full of ponds, waterfalls and unmatchable views of the most beautiful natural landscapes. There’s no better place to spend a hot summer day than Gorg del Salt. It has cool waters all year round thanks to the waterfall that also makes for a cinematic backdrop to your swim.
Other two very different options are the Cave of Skulls (Cueva de Las Calaveras) and the Marjal Pego-Olivia Natural Park. The first is a subterranean wonder, with impressively high walls that are full of rich Paleolithic history. The second is one of the most picturesque ways to enjoy everything the outdoors has to offer. Take a scenic walk through rice paddies, wetlands and rivers with the mountain as your backdrop and a wide variety of flora and fauna to marvel at along the way.
These are just some of the best outdoor destinations you can visit near your home at Cumbre del Sol. To keep up to date with all the activities, events and destinations in and near Cumbre del Sol, make sure to follow us on social media and check out our blog regularly.
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