Nordic Walking Along the Foothills of the Sierra de Crevillente

The winter time on the Costa Blanca provides the perfect weather for Nordic walking and hiking. On a good day the temperature can still reach 18c - 25c, with clear blue skies and light winds.

Crevillente is a small town, located approx. 25 kilometres from the coast, west from Santa Pola. Behind the town is the Sierra de Crevillente, a natural park and two resevoirs, one of which can be accessed from the N-325 or through San Pascual.


(Facing northeast)


(Facing southwest)

The landscape is typical for the area, consisting mainly of low-lying scrubland and small patches of farmland. Although once some height has been gained, there are good views to the coast, Callosa de Segura, Orihuela, across the Sierra de Crevillente and depending on your location, to the other sierras inland. The highest point is approx. 825 metres.


(Across the valley towards Callosa de Segura and Orihuela)

Few people are seen walking whilst in this area, the many trails and routes provide a web of choices around, along, underneath and atop the Sierra de Crevillente. The foothills provide a tranquil environment which is easy going for even the most leisurely walker.

Air-Bound Experiences on the Costa Blanca, Spain

The Costa Blanca, and indeed the Valencian region as a whole, offers so much. From the sky many different landscapes can be admired, not just the seascape which gets much promotion and praise, but also mountains, valleys, canyons, plains, rivers and lakes.


(Flying over Alicante marina)


(Misty view to Callosa de Segura, near Orihuela)

The main sky-based activities presently on offer include hot air ballooning (very popular), flying light aircraft, heli-rides (very expensive), paragliding and microlighting (called ultralight in Spain).


(Microlighting / Ultralight)



The economic problems have been severaly felt in the Valencian region for at least three years; an unfortunate backlash has been the closure many good businesses. Where previously there were numerous helicopter charter companies based in and around Benidorm, now only two or three operate. This has resulted in an increase in prices which are largley too expensive for the average consumer / tourist - around 3,000 euros for 2/3 people for a couple of hours!!

However, activities such as hot air ballooning and flying are popular, and affordable - hot air ballooning approx. 150 euros p/person, flying approx. 150 euros p/person, p/hour). Many people choose to book these activities as gift experiences or to share with loved ones on special occassions, such as anniversaries.

Please feel free to get in touch if you want details of individual activity providers: anna@costa-adventures.com / +34 6802 97955

Parque Natural del Carrascar de la Font Roja - Alicante, Spain

The Parque Natural del Carrascar de la Font Roja is a great place for walking, hiking and scrambling. Located a short drive north from the town of Ibi, this national park is said to be one of the best preserved Mediterranean forests in Valencia.

The gentle hills, open scrub and farmland are broken up by small, rustic dwellings and as the roads become smaller, the landscape becomes more attractive.



If one travels just 10 kilometres north of Ibi (following the signs for the park), then takes the C795 to Banyeres, a delighful selection of trails, picnic areas and walks await just off the main road - take your pick!



One of which can be taken by turning right at a sign with 'Sotorroni'. Car access ends after one kilometre, although walkers and cyclists can continue up and over the ridge, soaking up the fantastic views towards the impressive and rugged landscape at Sierra d'Aitana.


(Entrance to trail)


(View towards Sierra d'Aitana)

Kermes Oak, yew and aromatic herbs such as rosemary quilt the hillsides, look carefully at trail egdes and you will see different animal footprints; deer, wild cat and badgers. Snake tracks and areas where wild boar have been foraging can also be seen with a patient eye. Look up and you may spy Golden Eagles, vultures, Eagle Owls or Bonelli's Eagle.


(Kermes Oak)

This area is the High Vinalopó, and one of the major wine-producing regions in Europe. Evidence is easy to spot whilst travelling to or from the park, although the vineyards are empty at this time of year.

Tweeting by costaadventures; an active life in Spain

If you are one for Tweeting, and want to get up-to-date and fresh information about whats hot on the Costa Blanca in Spain, then please follow costadventures.

Often information about events is only promoted at the last minute, so this is a great way to keep an eye out on what is happening in the region.

Frequently covered activities include: moto (motorbike) racing events, nautical events, walking routes, new activity services in the region, scuba diving, photography competitions, and from time-to-time, intresting points about local wildlife and the environment.

Earth-Bound Experiences on the Costa Blanca, Spain - Part 2: Multi-Adventure

Part one of these posts gave a brief overview about walking as an activity, the region, and provided some resources where one can find out more information.

In this part, a short overveiw of other popular land-based activities in the area will be given. These posts are to act as a small indiciator to what huge potential there is on the Costa Blanca, and indeed, the Valencian region as a whole.

Adventure holidays take up a big chunk of the travel market, and the numbers are growing. Pursual of an active life brings many rewards, not only does it increase fitness, but also an appreciation and awareness of the environment.

The choice of adventure experiences in Spain as a whole is very good; so regardless of your adhrenline threshold, it would be easy to find a provider that can stimulate your senses, in a safe and controlled environment. Or, for those who like to go it alone, there are plenty of resources out there to consult.

Quad Biking:
Available throughout the area by a multitude of providers; though not all legal and insured - so be careful who you pick as you may not be covered in the event of an accident! A great activity for all the family, and a brilliant way to experience what the Spanish countryside has to offer. For the brave, controlled, steep descents get the heart pumping. For those wanting tamer experiences, simply letting the throttle out brings tremendous joy!



Horse Riding:
All centres are bound by legislation, some can only offer gentle, led treks, while others can provide more choices that include full-blown riding, classes and beach excursions. A more environmentally friendly way to discover the area, horse riding is fun and helps improve fitness if done on a regular basis.



Archery & Air Rifle Shooting:
Let out the hunter within! Learning these skills can bring tremendous satisfaction. Under the supervision of a good instructor, newby's should get the basics within a couple of hours. There are many companies offering these activities all over the country and they are popular choices for people of all fitness levels and backgrounds. Archery and air rifle shooting are especially popular with families and stag parties, with informal competitions proving to be great fun for all involved.


(Archery)


(Air Rifle Shooting)

Clay Pigeon Shooting:
The shotguns used to shoot clay are heavy and loud; so if you're going for the first time, don't forget to buy earpulgs! There are not many registered schools and clubs within the Costa Blanca, the most professional and best known to date being Alicante Shooting Breaks (http://www.alicanteshootingbreaks.com/), run by David Berenguer.

The club is set in a rustic valley on the outskirts of the Sierra de Maigmo, just inland from Alicante. Shooters from the UK should be prepared for a more basic, yet challenging experience.

If interested in trying this exciting activity, one should be aware of the legislation regarding the use and handling of shotguns and sign up with a registered and insured school.


(Clay Pigeon Shooting)

There are dozens of other options available for those keen on an active and outdoor life. Mountain biking and cycling are big business here and groups of cyclists can be seen making their way through villages, towns and green routes year round.

Paintballing:
Another popular choice for stag parties, there is a reputable and long running activity provider in Benidorm offering this and a whole host of other adventures for groups and families on holiday: http://www.marcopolo-exp.es/en_html/


(Paintballing)

Segways:
They may be new on the scene but they are proving popular choices for tourists wanting city tours. Learning how to use one is half the fun, keep an eye out for people wobbling whilst trying to get their balance. The other half of the fun is taking an elevated and smooth ride around on a futuristic and modern piece of technology.


(Segway)

Pole Dance Fitness:
Another new contender; yet to truly catch on in Spain but a big hit in America, the UK and Australia, the associations governing this activity are bidding for it to become an Olymic event! Wrongly percieved as being related to the sex industry (times change!), this activity is not to be underestimated!

Participants are extremely fit and supple with high stamina levels. Ladies taking this up as a regular leisure activity report an increase in confidence and happyness, as well as an improved physique!

Private parties for Hens are very popular, the only provider on the Costa Blanca being Maria Fallas from The Pole Professionals: http://www.pole-professionals.com/index.html



For those who are yet to take this sport seriously, check out:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SF6t0shspBg

Yoga:
For those who prefer more calm in their lives, yoga is still going strong after coming out in the 60's. There are retreats scattered throughout Spain; on hillsides, over-looking the Mediteranean, and in cities and towns throughout. A divine activity with dozens of physical, mental and spiritual benefits, yoga is the ultimate activity for those seeking inner peace.

RESOURCES

For further information, check out some of the national governing bodies for individual activities:
Horse Riding; http://www.rfhe.com/
Hunting / Shooting; http://www.fecaza.com/
Pole Dance Fitness (International Federation): http://www.ipdfa.com/

Earth-Bound Experiences on the Costa Blanca, Spain - Part 1; Walking

The Costa Blanca gets a rough ride sometimes; notorious Benidorm with it's skyscrapers, pubs and English breakfasts is probably the most well known area. Then theres the over-development, hideous economic situation and widepsread corruption; which doesn't help.


(Benidorm - image courtesy of gestaltur.com)

Few people realise that the mountainous areas around Benidorm are considered among the most adventurous areas in Spain to explore!

The Costa Blanca has a lot on offer, especially with regard to adventure sports, it's just some tourist offices don't do the best job at promoting it and the local authorities don't nurture small business, so it's a tough environment to break in to.

Beautiful terrain is awaiting; hiking - 'senderismo' - is huge in Spain. Move off the well beaten track and there is a lot on offer; mountains, beaches, woodland, scrub, saltlakes and rivers.



Nordic walking is proving popular and the Spanish Nordic Walking Association is growing at a very healthy rate. Check them out for information about walks and the development of the sport in the Valencian area:
http://nordicwalking-ane.es/



Here are a couple of good suggestions where to start if you want to explore:


The Aitana Sierra and el Puig Campana:
Inbetween La Marina and l'Alcoià-Comtat in the Costa Blanca north there is an imposing limestone mountain range which streches out over two thousand hectares. At 1,558 metres above sea level, the Aitana Sierra is dominated by sheer cliffs, gigantic boulders and massive fissures; some over eighty metres deep!


(Sierra de Aitana)

Nearby, el Puig Campana stands at 1,410 metres above sea level. Its cliff faces, pinnacles and peaks carved in limestone give the surrounding landscape an impressive, rugged look. These areas are great for enthusiasts with good fitness levels who like to exert themselves. Cycling is another way to enjoy the sights, even if you do get a lift to the top and arrange for the car to meet you at the bottom!


(el Puig Campana - image courtesy of panoramio.com)

This area is also popular with both national and international climbers. The Ponoig (1,181m) near Polop, Puig Campana (1,410m) near Finestrat, and the Penyal Diví near Sella are all exciting challenges.



Quaint mountain villages nestled in valleys, ancient Moorish ruins, wayside chapels and lush farmland are spread across the area. To the east the sea lies at the bottom of a steep slope, on a clear day the party island of Ibiza can be seen. Keep an eye out and you may see Peregrine Falcon, Golden Eagle and Bonelli's Eagle.

Benifato, Confrides and Sella are all set beautifully in the range, and are great places to rest and take lunch. Nearby, Guadalest sits above a turquoise-coloured lake and although still beautiful, can be a bit of a tourist trap in the summer.


(Guadalest)


La Mata and Torrevieja Lagoons Nature Park:
These areas are made up of lagoons which spread across Torrevieja, Los Montesinos, Guardamar del Segura and La Mata in the Costa Blanca south. For decades these lagoons have been used for salt extraction and the marshlands joining the lagoons are an important wintering and nesting area for over numerous bird species, most notably the Greater Flamingo and Black-Necked Grebe.

As these areas comprise of large, flat expanses, people of any fitness level will find it easy to park up and go for a gentle stroll. The area is popular with photographers due to the scenery and opportunities to picture flamingo's and locally rare birds.


(Torrevieja salt lagoons - image courtesy of stitchesoftime.wordpress.com)

For more information about this specific area, contact the Nature Park Information Centre on: 966 920 404.

There are 22 'Nature Parks' in the region of Valencia, offering sensual contrasts to visitors and adventure sports enthusiasts. In the north the Iberian mountain range provides many challenging environments, in the central part of the region, there are hills and plains, and to the south the land turns mountainous once again, to the Baetic Cordillera sierras.

If you want to do some serious walking then factors to consider include the time of year (don't bother in the summer - it's way too hot!), area, grading systems and being properly organised - don't forget valid travel / health insurance, maps and water!!

This post is a very, very small insight in to what is a hugely varied and popular activity throughout the Costa Blanca, Valencia and Spain as a whole. Postings about walking, hiking and mountainous activities will be a regular fixture on this Blog.

RESOURCES:
The amount of information circulating about walking in the Costa Blanca and Valencian region is increasing, so it has never been easier to up sticks and explore. A great book for people who want to hike in the area is 'Hiking in Spain', written by Stuart Butler and published by the Lonely Planet:
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Hiking-Spain-Lonely-Planet-Walking/dp/1741044707/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1291126870&sr=8-1

The best place for walking information is the Centro Excusionista de Valencia (Spanish only): http://www.centroexcursionista.org/

Although the Valencian Community website is also good: http://en.comunitatvalenciana.com/organiza-tu-viaje-mapas-guias-y-planos-guias-de-rutas-y-excursiones/2?k=3&user=logged and has lots of guides that can be downloaded for free.

For everything you need to know about walking in Spain, check out the national walking organisation; FEDME: http://www.fedme.es/

The best overall map of the area is Michelin's No.577 Comunidad Valenciana & Murcia (1:400,000). Maps can be bought at http://www.libreriapatagonia.com/

Scuba Diving in Dénia and Xàbia - Costa Blanca North

As more information is produced about adventure sport options in the region of Valencia, it seems that there is much more to the Costa Blanca than first meets the eye.

The large majority of accessible shore along the coasts of the Costa Blanca are deserts, lacking biodiversity and instead primarily home to sandy and bare environments. The most notable of species is Neptune Grass (Posidonia), due to its position within the ecosystem.


(Neptune Grass; Posidonia - image courtesy of jgi.doe.gov)



However, there are areas of great natural value, with hidden gems for scuba divers and snorkelers. This posting will highlight five trails between Dénia and Xàbia, a 50 kilometre stretch of coast in the Costa Blanca north.



The Fresquito Trail in Dénia:
Four km from the Port, the Fresquito trail is good for divers and snorkelers. The trail is home to a variety of sealife; octopuses, Spiral Tube Worms, Green Spoon Worms, Moray Eel, shoals of White Bream, Damselfish and at times, reclusive rays. The trail starts with a sandy seabed and protruding rocks which give way to a wall and small chimney in the rock which can be entered before returning.



The Cullerà:
Set in a marine park, this trail is so called because of the chunk missing from the wall at the foot of the parks cliff. Diving to nine metres and following the wall, there is an entrance to a large cave, extending back around 50 metres and home to Mediterranean Slipper Lobsters, Corvina Fish and at times, Conger Eels. Species such as grouper, Gilt-Headed Bream and octopuses can also be seen in the rocks many holes and the seabed is littered with seaweed carpeted rocks.


(Common octopus - image courtesy of ask.com)

The Granadella Trail in Xàbia:
Set in a pretty cove, this trail starts with a journey through an area abundant with Neptune grass (Posidonia). Hidden here patient divers may be able to spy octopuses and Moray Eel. Halfway through the trail the scenery becomes a little monotonous as the grass gives way to sand. Points of interest return on the swim back, a small series of caves which have window-like openings to the shallows, and galleries home to Corvina fish, a variety of crustaceans and some Conger Eel. If snorkeling stick to the shallower area by the wall, home to Starfish, Peacock Wrasse and Damselfish - but please stay out of caves!

The María Claudia Trail:
This circular trail is concentrated around a small islet, which is located just past Portixol - La Mona I'liia. This boat dive is best started opposite the islet and if can be started from the beach or a boat. On the opposite side to the beach there is a small shaft at 11 metres, it ascends to seven metres and produces some picturesque light effects on the way up. Upon leaving the shaft a mixture of substrate is apparent; gently sloping hill-like shapes that at points morph in to plunging holes.

The El Tangó Trail:
Also known locally as El Pope, this trail is accessible from the beach, close to the yacht club. The beach faces southeast and to the northeast - Cape San Antonio (protected marine reserve). The shallow start to the trail is dominated with Neptune grass and home to Moray Eel and octopus. Within a short distance the depth increases and there are various nooks and crannies along the cape wall which can be explored. If snorkeling, there are small crags along the cape wall where the water is shallow and some more species can be observed; such as Salema Porgy Sea Bream, gudgeons, Mediterranean Rainbow Wrasse and sometimes, small octopus.


(Mediterranean Rainbow Wrasse - image courtesy of en.wikipedia.org)

Diving permits are necessary in this area and only a small number are granted by the local Town Halls (see below). Be warned; expect the firm hand of the law to descend if you are found with any instrument (to hand or on a boat) that can be used to fish for or remove marine species. Also, if snorkeling, for safety, mark your position with a buoy.

For more information contact:
Tourist Info Dénia: http://www.denia.net/uk/index.html
Tourist Info Xàbia: http://www.xabia.org/

Here are a couple more interesting locations to try out, I'll keep the suggestions coming all year round; you might want to buy a wetsuit :)
- Scuba diving at Los Arcos de Benidorm
- Snorkeling in Fustera Benissa, by the "Aula del Mar" in Benissa

Overview - Adventure Sports in Spain

Hello Readers!

This Blog has been created to share information about adventure sports in Spain, particularly, the Costa Blanca on the east coast.

Soaked with sunshine throughout the year, the coastline and countryside on the Costa Blanca are ample playgrounds for a whole host of sporting activities. Seasonal changes provide the perfect excuse to participate in a variety of sports, for example, Nordic walking, quad biking, hiking and pole dance fitness are more enjoyable in the cooler months; whilst sailing, scuba diving, kitesurfing, kayaking, and anything else water-based, are more enjoyable, and welcome, in the summer months.


(Kayaking in the Mar Menor)


(Nordic walking on Guardamar beach)

Agricultural cycles produce spectacular displays throughout the year. Citrus trees produce vibrant fruit and an amazing aroma, cherry and almond blossom are a popular attraction. Also of significance are the castles, windmills, hilltop villages, farmhouses and walled mountain fields; exciting to explore and great subjects for photographers.

Although the Costa Blanca is home to some of the best beaches in the country, the area suffers from excessive package tourism, as in Benidorm and the coastal areas of the Costa Blanca south. Few people realise that a short drive inland provides a great insight in to the true Spain; small, picturesque and quiet villages, surrounded by awesome mountains and fertile lands.

The Mediterranean Sea stretches along Marbella in the south to Barcelona in the north, and separating the mainland from the Balearic by roughly 100 miles. In the north the Pyrenees mountains are an extremely popular area for multi-adventure and provide stunning scenery to become immersed in. Weather conditions, temperatures and seasonal variations differ largely throughout the country, with the Costa Blanca providing the warmest and most arid climate.


(Callosa de Segura - through farmers fields in Algorfa)


(Looking on to Torrevieja Marina)

The Costa Blanca north is home to the majority of sierra’s in the area. Inland from Denia and Benidorm you will find the Sierra Mariola National Park, the Aitana Sierra, El Puig Campana, the Bèrnia Sierra and the Maigmó Massif. The L’Arguenya Sierra is a short drive away and located between Villena and Elda. All of these locations are ideal environments for enthusiastic walkers, hikers, climbers and for those with extreme tendencies; there are canyons to have fun in too.


(View towards Alcoleja in the Costa Blanca north)


(View from Sierra de Espuña towards the Murcian coast)

Unfortunately over-fishing and the lack of effective environmental projects have resulted in bare and desert-like coastal waters. There are some areas of interest, and these will be covered, but even the protected marine reserves have limited biodiversity, so decent scuba diving trails are few and far between on the Costa Blanca.


(The Costa Blanca north is a haven for adventurous water-sports enthusiasts)


(Jet skiing here is an expensive activity option)

However, what lacks underwater is compensated above. There are many options to explore; sailing, power boating, kitesurfing, surfing, windsurfing, kayaking, Stand Up Paddle (SUP), jet skiing, fishing, wakeboarding and tubing to name a few!


(Tubing; brilliant fun, not for the faint-hearted)