Costa Blanca Walking holidays with Involved Holidays
Inland from the resorts of the Costa Blanca, lies some of the best walking landscapes in Spain. The sparsely populated mountains rise up to 3000ft and are a haven for wildlife, including wild cats and genets, badgers and weasels, and even golden eagles. Well-maintained tracks along the rocky peaks and through lush valleys, link traditional villages where the old Valencian lifestyle still prevails. Your holiday base in Calpe has a bit of everything - beautiful beaches, a lively and picturesque old town, stunning scenery in the shape of the immense Rock of Ifach, plus varied wildlife, both on the Rock and on the saltpans.
Your first walk begins with a short transfer into the peaceful Serra d’Oltà hills, where a circular trail leads you around the mountain’s crown. The path gently winds through fragrant pinewoods and open moorland, revealing sweeping views of the coastline and distant peaks. With steady ascents and descents, it’s a wonderfully relaxed introduction to the region’s natural charm. A pause at St Francis’ hermitage adds a lovely moment of calm before the route loops back. – 6 .3 miles
The second walk traces the shoreline of the beautiful Guadelest Reservoir. The terrain is friendly underfoot, making it an easy-going day filled with picture-perfect vistas, surrounded by majestic mountains and stunningly blue water. Expect a leisurely pace, breathtaking scenery at every turn, and plenty of opportunities to pause and soak it all in. – 6.2 miles
After a scenic 50-minute transfer, you’ll begin your third walk at the summit of the Coll de Rates, greeted by panoramic views of mountain ranges, quiet valleys and whitewashed villages. The route follows the historic Royal Road as it gently descends into the famed Jalón Valley, known for its vineyards, citrus groves and sweet Mistela wine. A peaceful path through pinewoods leads you along the southern slopes, offering uplifting views across the valley - a wonderfully varied walk with a strong sense of local history and rural charm. – 6 miles
Holiday Highlights
- Seven nights half board in the 4 star Spa Hotel the Diamante Beach in Calpe
- Three guided walks amid the mountainous hinterland
- Local knowledgeable walking guide
- s Optional excursion to the Albir Lighthouse Altea and Guadalest
- Flights included from your local airport
- Transfers included
Itinerary
DAY ONE – Arrival Day
Flight to Alicante, transfer to your hotel for seven night’s half board accommodation. Transfer time approximately one hour.
DAY TWO – Walk 1
6.3 MILES - You will have a short coach transfer for the first included walk on the unspoilt Serra d’Oltà hills. You follow a circular route around the peak, mainly along forestry tracks, with ascents of 320m and descents of 380m. The route affords stunning views of the coast and surrounding mountains as you pass through pinewoods and moorland. You will make a stop at St Francis’ hermitage.
DAY THREE – Free day
Free day in resort.
DAY FOUR – Walk 2
6.2 MILES – The second walk follows the edge of the lovely Guadelest Reservoir, with steady, comfortable paths that make for an easy and enjoyable day out. Surrounded by grand mountain views and shimmering blue water, the route offers a relaxed pace and scenery that never stops impressing.
DAY FIVE – Free day or optional excursion
Free day in resort or alternatively, you may join the optional excursion to the Albir Lighthouse, Altea and Guadalest.
DAY SIX – Walk 3
6 MILES – 200M ASCENT/DESCENT 50-minute coach transfer to the start of the walk which will explore the Jalon Valley, famous for its vineyards and fine wines, including the typically sweet white Mistela. The route starts from the summit of the Coll de Rates from where you have panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the Tárbena Valley, the Sierra de Ferrer and the Jalon Valley with its whitewashed villages, vineyards and citrus groves set out in neat rows. The route descends from the Coll de Rates along the old Royal Road that takes you down into the Jalon Valley. This footpath was the principal connection between the provincial capitals of Valencia and Alicante up until the early 20th century. You then follow an easy footpath through pinewoods along the southern flanks with views of the valley below.
DAY SEVEN – Free day
Free day in resort.
DAY EIGHT – Departure Day
Free time until departure for the airport and your flight home.
Accommodation
The hotel Diamante Beach is set in a privileged location in the beautiful town of Calpe, where you will find a wonderful mixture of real Spanish charm perfectly combined with modern tourist facilities. Located just a few metres from the Levante Beach promenade, the hotel’s modern style is characterised by its spectacular glass façade. There is a cafeteria, a piano bar, and a Mediterranean cuisine buffet restaurant with “Show Cooking”.
Hotel Features
Reviews
Average Review Score:
I arranged the Market Harborough Rambling Club group holiday with you. We all enjoyed it immensely and are keen to book another trip.
Margaret LGuide Jose was the best we have had with Involved Holidays.
Sheila WJose was an excellent guide. Knowledgeable and friendly and inclusive as we were a group of mixed walking abilities.
CarmelWell planned and interesting walks. Very good and always helpful guide.
Alessandro FGuide made a good holiday even better.
Lesley S