Far l'Albir

Is it possible to enjoy early summer conditions in Europe during the winter months? We've already described this in the "Caravaning Tours" chapter, so I won't go into more detail here. If you're interested, feel free to browse the "Wintering in Spain" chapter there.

Here, we describe a very scenic walk north of Benidorm, a fantastic viewpoint trail near l'Albir leading to the coastal lighthouse, which we did right at the beginning of the year on January 1st.

To get there, take the AP-7 motorway, exit 65 at Benidorm, then follow the N-332 north to l'Albir. You can find the exact route in your navigation system. There's a large parking area on a hill, from where the very varied and scenic trail winds its way through the rocky landscape.

The path to the lighthouse is well-maintained and accessible for people with disabilities. There are only a few steps at some of the viewpoints along the way, which are easy to manage. Those who wish can also take more challenging detours off the main path. However, we will stay on the main path, which is approximately 5.5 km long round trip.

At the parking lot itself, we are greeted by an entrance gate with plenty of information. It is clearly a popular spot; the parking lot is quite full.

From the entrance gate, it is only about 570 meters to the first viewpoint. We gaze in amazement at the magnificent panorama in all directions. To the left is l'Albir, straight ahead is Altea, and further to the right, into the distance, all the way to Calpe, where the Ifach mountain rises majestically from the sea.

A little further to the right, along the cliff face, we see a tunnel about 300 meters away. To the side of it is a small staircase leading to another viewpoint, which we quickly reach: the Mirador del Parc Natural de la Serra Gelada.

We descend from the viewpoint and pass through the tunnel. Beyond it, the path winds its way gently uphill for the next 1.3 km to the lighthouse.

It's the diverse views—sometimes into the distance, sometimes right at the edge of the path overlooking the vegetation immediately ahead, or even up the steep rocky slope—that provide so much variety and are truly captivating.

Just before reaching the lighthouse, we come to a small field path with a view down into the valley. There lie the remains of the former ochre mine, the Antiga mina d'ocre. Those who feel up to it can descend the path with its loose surface to take a closer look.

The lighthouse stands out particularly impressively from the main path, seemingly perched atop its own distinct rocky outcrop.

We pass through the separate entrance gate, which offers plenty of information about the lighthouse and its surroundings. Once at the top, you can walk all the way around the building and enjoy the view. You could gaze into the distance for what feels like an eternity without ever getting bored.

The fishing operations are also clearly visible; here, much like in Norway, fish farming is concentrated, and the fish are harvested regularly.

A unique viewpoint is located directly in front of the lighthouse fortress. A rock archway offering a glimpse into the distance... it has character.

The view to the south follows the rugged and steep cliffs. A view stretching into infinity, perfect for daydreaming.

After a while, we go back the same way to the parking lot and drive home.