Getaways and things to do in Sierra de Aitana

Sierra de Aitana rises to 1,558 meters, the highest point in the province of Alicante. This Baetic mountain formation stretches across the Marina Baja, Hoya de Alcoy and Condado de Cocentaina districts, covering municipalities such as Confrides, Benifato, Alcoleja, Benimantell and Sella. Together with Sierra de Serrella and Puig Campana, it forms a Site of Community Interest (SCI) within the Natura 2000 network. The contrast is striking: the Benidorm coast lies under 40 minutes away by car, yet the sierra belongs to a different world, that of the inland Mediterranean mountains.

The landscape alternates limestone ridges with deep ravines and slopes covered in Aleppo pine, juniper and holm oak woodland. The geological formations are Cretaceous and Jurassic limestone and dolomite, shaped by a system of folds and faults that define the current terrain. At higher altitudes on north-facing slopes, remnants of yew and holly survive as relics of past climates at their southern limit within the Valencia region. In spring, over a dozen wild orchid species bloom among the rocky terrain, and the scent of rosemary and thyme fills the trails climbing toward the summit. The peak is frequently wrapped in Mediterranean mists that create a humid microclimate with a mean annual temperature around 10-11 degrees Celsius.

Wildlife includes raptors such as Bonelli's eagle, eagle owl and peregrine falcon, which nest on the south-facing limestone cliffs. Wild boar roam the ravines at dawn while red foxes move through abandoned agricultural terraces that recall centuries of mountain farming. Red-legged partridge and wild rabbit inhabit the scrubland, forming the prey base for the large raptors. For birdwatchers, the rock faces are prime viewing spots, particularly between October and March when wintering raptors gather. Over 120 vertebrate species have been recorded across the sierra.

Hiking routes start from villages like Benifato (Font de Partegat) and Puerto de Tudons via the PR-CV 20, with elevation gains between 400 and 900 meters. The direct ascent from Benifato takes about 3 hours through pine forests and rocky outcrops. The Aitana-Serrella-Xorta traverse covers roughly 37 kilometers with 3,000 meters of accumulated elevation, designed for experienced hikers over two days. For intermediate levels, the ascent from Font de l'Arbre offers a gradual climb with Mediterranean views reaching the island of Ibiza, over 150 kilometers away on clear days. The summit hosts a military base closed to the public, but the geodetic marker and 360-degree viewpoint are freely accessible.

The sierra villages — Confrides, Benifato, Alcoleja, Benasau, Penaguila — keep a slow pace. Narrow streets, stone fountains and whitewashed chapels preserve a rural architecture that contrasts with the nearby tourist coast. Local cuisine revolves around the comarca's olive oil, aromatic herbs, rosemary honey and cured meats, with restaurants serving olleta alcoyana, bacalao borreta and mountain rice dishes. The local community, accustomed to hikers and cyclists, offers rural accommodation integrated into the landscape and keeps traditional village festivals alive.