The 8 Most Amazing Peaks around Elche/Elx

The region offers several highly-rated spots. La Vella Antennas is a popular viewpoint in the Sierra de Crevillent, known for its extensive outlooks. Another must-see is Serra Grossa, a natural monument offering magnificent views of the Bay of Alicante. For a higher ascent, the Alt de Sant Juri Summit reaches 812 meters, providing extensive views of the rocky walls above the Anouers ravine.

You'll encounter diverse natural features. Peaks like Serra Grossa offer rocky elevations facing the Mediterranean Sea. In the broader Alicante province, you can find impressive geological formations like 'Els Frares' in La Serrella, natural tunnels in Sierra de Bèrnia, and lush landscapes with natural fountains in Serra de Mariola Natural Park, home to Montcabrer.

While some peaks involve challenging ascents, many viewpoints offer accessible options for families. Serra Grossa, for instance, provides beautiful views of Alicante and the bay, and while the approach can be steep, it's a rewarding experience. For easier walks, consider trails around the base of some mountains or designated natural parks in the wider Alicante province.

The best time to visit is generally during the cooler months, from autumn through spring (October to May), to avoid the intense summer heat. The tip for Alt de Sant Juri Summit specifically recommends visiting on less hot days or early in the morning, as this section runs through a sunny part of the mountain.

Beyond hiking to the peaks, the area offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can explore numerous routes for gravel biking, road cycling, and general cycling. For example, there are challenging gravel biking loops like the 'View of the Winding Dirt Road – Sierra de Crevillente loop' and moderate road cycling routes such as the 'Sanctuary of Saint Mary Magdalene Loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the Gravel biking around Elche/Elx, Road Cycling Routes around Elche/Elx, and Cycling around Elche/Elx guides.

Absolutely. For experienced hikers, Puig Campana, the second-highest peak in the province at 1,408 meters, offers a demanding ascent and is considered one of Alicante's most iconic challenges. Aitana, the highest mountain in the province at 1,557 meters, also provides impressive and challenging trails, particularly to its highest accessible point, Peña Forata.

Many peaks offer stunning panoramic views. Maigmó, often called the 'balcony of Alicante,' provides excellent views of the surrounding landscape and coastline. From La Serrella, you can see neighboring mountains, the Guadalest reservoir, and even Ibiza on clear days. The View of Alicante and Santa Bárbara Castle from Serra Grossa is also highly recommended for its iconic city and bay vistas.

Many outdoor areas in the Alicante province are dog-friendly, especially on hiking trails. However, it's always advisable to check local regulations for specific natural parks or protected areas. Generally, dogs are welcome on trails as long as they are kept under control, especially around wildlife or other hikers.

Sierra de Bèrnia stands out with its distinctive, steep, and rocky shape, often compared to a gigantic petrified dinosaur crest. Its most famous feature is 'El Forat,' a natural tunnel that hikers can cross, sometimes on all fours. From both the summit and El Forat, you're treated to some of the best views of the Altea and Benidorm bays, offering a wild atmosphere with exposed sections.

Visitors consistently praise the rewarding views after an ascent. For example, the Tabayá Summit is noted for its 'great views' after a good climb. The Alt de Sant Juri Summit offers magnificent views, with one visitor remarking on having breakfast there as the sun came up, saying 'it doesn't get any better than that.' The blend of challenging trails and breathtaking panoramas is a major draw.

Yes, the Sierra Gelada is a notable coastal mountain range separating the bays of Benidorm and Altea. It features an impressive cliff face that plunges into the sea and offers fabulous views of Benidorm's skyscrapers and beaches. Serra Grossa also provides stunning views facing the Mediterranean Sea and the Bay of Alicante.