Hiking in Orihuela Costa – Explore the Beauty of the Costa Blanca on Foot
Orihuela Costa is not only famous for its stunning beaches and sunny climate, but also for its diverse hiking opportunities. Whether you prefer coastal walks with breathtaking sea views, nature trails through unspoiled landscapes, or easy strolls for the whole family, this region has something to offer. Here’s your ultimate guide to hiking in Orihuela Costa, covering the best routes, must-see spots, and insider tips for an unforgettable outdoor experience.
Why Go Hiking in Orihuela Costa?
☀️ Perfect Climate – With over 320 sunny days per year, hiking is possible all year round.
⛰️ Diverse Landscapes – Enjoy everything from cliffside paths and salt lakes to green parks and river trails.
🦩 Wildlife & Nature – Spot flamingos, rare plants, and stunning coastal rock formations.
✅ Easy to Access – Many trails start right from urban areas, making them perfect for tourists and locals alike.
What to Bring for Your Hike?
✔️ Comfortable footwear – Some trails are rocky or sandy
✔️ Plenty of water – Especially in warmer months
✔️ Sunscreen & hat – The Costa Blanca sun can be intense
✔️ Camera or binoculars – For breathtaking views & wildlife spotting
The Best Hiking Trails in Orihuela Costa
🌊 Cabo Roig Coastal Walk (Easy - 4 km)
One of the most scenic walks in the region, this coastal path runs along Cabo Roig and La Zenia, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean. Expect:
✔️ Breathtaking cliffs overlooking the sea
✔️ Hidden coves & beaches along the way
✔️ Sunset views perfect for photography
Tip: Stop at Cabo Roig Viewpoint for one of the best panoramas in the area!
🦩 Torrevieja Pink Lake Trail (Easy – 5 km) - Overview
This unique nature walk takes you around the famous Laguna Salada de Torrevieja, also known as the Pink Lake.
✔️ Incredible pink-colored water (due to special algae & bacteria)
✔️ Wildlife spotting – Look out for flamingos!
✔️ Flat & accessible – Suitable for all fitness levels
🔗 Want to learn more about the Pink Lake and other water-related highlights? Check out our Water at the Costa Blanca page!
Torrevieja Pink Lake Trail – A Detailed Guide
The Torrevieja Pink Lake, or Laguna Rosa, is a unique natural wonder located in the Parque Natural de Torrevieja. This guide attempts to provide an in-depth look at the trail, its features, nearby amenities, and tips for visitors.
🧭 Location and Access
The Pink Lake is situated within the Natural Park of Torrevieja, encompassing approximately 1,400 hectars. Visitors can access the lake via Calle de las Lavanderas, 10, 03185 Torrevieja, Alicante. Parking is available along the street, allowing for a short walk to the lake.
✨ Trail Features and Highlights
Unique Pink Waters: The lake’s distinctive pink hue results from halobacteria and the algae Dunaliella salina, thriving in high salinity.
Wildlife Observation: The area is a haven for birdwatchers, especially during the breeding season from March to May, when large flocks of flamingos can be observed.
Health Benefits: The microclimate around the lake is considered one of the healthiest globally, attributed to the salt-rich environment.
🍽️ Nearby Amenities
While the immediate vicinity of the lake lacks facilities, the town of Torrevieja offers various dining options:
Restaurante Nautilus: Located by the sea, this restaurant offers Mediterranean cuisine with stunning views.
St James’s Gate: An Irish pub providing a cozy atmosphere and a range of dishes.
ℹ Visitor Tips
Best Time to Visit: The lake’s pink hue is most vibrant during warmer months. Visiting in the early evening offers picturesque sunset views.
What to Bring: Carry ample water, sun protection, and insect repellent. A camera is essential for capturing the stunning scenery.
Guided Tours: For a comprehensive experience, consider arranging a guided tour through the Interpretation Center (Centro de Interpretación). Contact them at (+34) 965 721 650.
Conclusion:
The Torrevieja Pink Lake Trail offers a unique blend of natural beauty, wildlife, and health benefits. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, photographer, or casual visitor, this trail provides a memorable experience in the heart of the Costa Blanca.
🌿 Rio Seco Natural Park (Moderate – 7 km)
Overview
A hidden gem for nature lovers, this riverbed hike near Pinar de Campoverde features:
✔️ Unique rock formations shaped by water over thousands of years
✔️ Green oasis with Mediterranean pine trees & local flora
✔️ A mix of sandy trails & rocky paths – wear sturdy shoes!
Rio Seco Natural Park – A Comprehensive Guide
The Rio Seco Natural Park, located in the southeastern region of Spain near Pilar de la Horadada, offers a unique hiking experience through its distinctive dry riverbed landscape. This guide provides detailed information on the trail’s location, features, nearby dining options, and additional tips for visitors.
🧭 Location and Access
The Rio Seco trail is best accessed from Calle Rio Nervion 33, 03191 Pilar de la Horadada. Parking is available in the residential area, and the trailhead begins with a small bridge over the dry riverbed. An alternative entry point is near Avenida de Austria, 55a, 03191 Pilar de la Horadada, behind the WOK restaurant accessible via the N332 at the roundabout.
✨ Trail Features and Highlights
Unique Landscape: The trail winds through the dry riverbed of Rio Seco, characterized by towering sandstone walls, unique rock formations, and lush vegetation. Hikers can observe a variety of flora and fauna, including pine trees, shrubs, and local wildlife.
Trail Difficulty: The path is well-marked and suitable for hikers of all levels, with minimal elevation changes. The terrain is primarily compacted soil and sand, making for comfortable walking conditions.
Scenic Views: As you progress, the trail offers picturesque views of the surrounding countryside, with opportunities for photography and nature observation.
🍽️ Nearby Dining Options
After completing your hike, consider visiting the following nearby establishments for refreshments:
Treetops Bar and Restaurant: Located in Pinar de Campoverde, this venue offers a variety of dishes in a relaxed atmosphere.
Local Cafés in Pilar de la Horadada: The town offers several cafés and tapas bars where you can enjoy traditional Spanish cuisine and beverages.
ℹ Visitor Tips
Best Time to Visit: The trail is accessible year-round; however, early mornings or late afternoons are recommended during summer months to avoid peak temperatures.
What to Bring: Carry sufficient water, wear sun protection, and opt for comfortable hiking shoes suitable for uneven terrain.
Trail Etiquette: As the area is a natural habitat, ensure you carry out all trash and respect the local wildlife.
Conclusion:
The Rio Seco Natural Park offers a distinctive hiking experience through its dry riverbed landscape, suitable for both novice and experienced hikers. With its unique geological features and accessible trails, it’s a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts exploring the southeastern region of Spain.
Hiking & Sustainability – Protecting Orihuela Costa’s Natural Beauty
Hiking is a fantastic way to explore Orihuela Costa, but protecting the environment is just as important. Here are some ways you can help:
♻️ Stick to marked trails to protect wildlife and vegetation
🚯 Take your trash with you – Keep nature clean
💧 Respect water sources – Learn more about local water conservation here
⛰ Sierra de Escalona & Dehesa de Campoamor (Moderate – 10+ km)
For those seeking a more adventurous hike, the Sierra de Escalona offers a forest trail with:
✔️ Sweeping views over Orihuela Costa & the coastline
✔️ Abundant wildlife, including eagles & wild boars
✔️ Well-marked paths through a beautiful nature reserve
Sierra Escalona - A Hidden Gem for Hikers
Location and Access
Sierra Escalona is a vast natural area located in the province of Alicante, stretching across the municipalities of Orihuela and Pilar de la Horadada. It is part of a larger protected region that includes the Dehesa de Campoamor and forms a crucial ecological corridor connecting the inland mountains with the coastal wetlands.
The main access points for hiking routes are:
- Camino de la Sierra, near Rebate, a well-known entry point with scenic trails.
- Pinar de Campoverde, offering a direct connection to well-marked paths leading into the heart of the Sierra.
The area is easily reachable by car, and there are several parking spots near the trailheads. Public transport options are limited, so it is advisable to drive or arrange transportation in advance.
🍀 Unique Features and Landscape
Sierra Escalona is known for its diverse ecosystems, combining Mediterranean pine forests, dry riverbeds, and open scrublands.
Hikers can enjoy:
- Panoramic views over the surrounding countryside, with sights extending to the coast on clear days.
- Rich wildlife, including eagles, owls, and foxes. The area is particularly important for the Bonelli’s eagle, a species protected under conservation efforts.
- Diverse trails, ranging from easy walks through pine forests to challenging hikes that lead to elevated viewpoints.
🥾 Suggestions for Hiking Routes
Ruta de Rebate (Moderate, 10 km round trip)
- Starting Point: Rebate restaurant
- Highlights: Pine forests, scenic viewpoints, and a chance to see local wildlife.
Pinar de Campoverde Loop (Easy, 6 km)
- Starting Point: Pinar de Campoverde urbanization
- Highlights: A well-marked trail passing through varied terrain with opportunities for birdwatching.
Barranco Rubio Trail (Challenging, 14 km round trip)
- Starting Point: Camino de la Sierra
- Highlights: Rocky landscapes, dry riverbeds, and incredible viewpoints over the surrounding valleys.
🍽️ Nearby Dining Options
After a day of hiking, you can relax and enjoy a meal at:
Restaurante Rebate – A countryside restaurant known for its traditional Spanish cuisine and beautiful garden setting.
Local Cafés in Pilar de la Horadada – Ideal for light snacks and refreshments.
ℹ Visitor Tips
Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant temperatures for hiking. Summer can be extremely hot, so early morning hikes are recommended.
What to Bring: Comfortable hiking shoes, plenty of water, sun protection, and a camera to capture the stunning landscapes.
Wildlife Respect: Sierra Escalona is an important natural habitat, so hikers should stick to marked trails and avoid disturbing the wildlife.
Conclusion:
❤️ Sierra Escalona is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and hikers exploring the Orihuela Costa region. Its diverse landscapes, well-preserved trails, and rich biodiversity make it an ideal spot for outdoor adventures.
🌲 Whether you’re looking for a relaxing coastal walk, a family-friendly nature trail, or a challenging adventure, Orihuela Costa has it all. Thanks to its mild climate, diverse landscapes, and well-maintained trails, hiking here is a fantastic experience all year round.
So lace up your hiking boots, grab your camera, and discover the natural beauty of Orihuela Costa on foot!
More about the Region
🚴 Discover the Region on Two Wheels
If you enjoy active travel, cycling is one of the best ways to see the countryside surrounding Orihuela. With scenic routes passing through orange groves and traditional villages, the journey is just as rewarding as the destination. Don’t miss our Cycling in Orihuela Costa guide, complete with tips, routes, and an interactive map to help you plan your next ride.
Discover Casa Larimar and our other holiday homes, located only few minutes from the Mediterranean Sea.
Are you looking for the right bike and / or bike accessories for your next holiday, or for a dealer who can help you with the maintenance or repair of your bike? Then take a look at our dedicated Cycling in Orihuela Costa page to learn about bike dealers in Orihuela Costa and the surrounding area that can help you out quickly.
Are you currently on holiday in Orihuela Costa or planning your next trip to beautiful Spain? Then find out what activities Orihuela Costa and its surroundings have to offer you!