The Algar Waterfalls (Fonts de Algar)
Discover an oasis of peace and coolness on the Costa Blanca
Looking for a refreshing change from the crowded and warm beaches of the Costa Blanca? Just a short drive from the coast you will discover the Algar Falls, a beautiful natural area full of waterfalls, natural pools and hiking trails.
The Algar waterfalls, also called Les Fonts de l’Algar, Fonts d’Algar or Las Fuentes del Algar.
This protected nature reserve is the perfect day trip for families, nature lovers and anyone looking to cool off. The waterfalls of Algar show a completely different, greener side of the province of Alicante.
In this article you will find all the practical information you need for a visit, from background information about the river to the best tips for a successful day.
A photo of the sign at the entrance to Algar Falls.
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ToggleWhat are the waterfalls of Algar?
Les Fonts d’Algar is a protected wetland officially recognized by the Valencian government on September 10, 2002. The visit consists of a 1.5-kilometer walk along the bed of the Algar River (meaning cave in Arabic).
Here you can see a unique landscape formed by the karst action of the limestone, resulting in:
- Spectacular waterfalls;
- Countless springs spring from the rocks;
- The “tolls” (waterholes) with pure, crystal clear water where you can take a refreshing dip and which were once considered a “source of health.
- The old dam, the impressive canal and the ancient irrigation ditches that are still in use today.
Callosa d’en Sarrià: the village of springs
The waterfalls of Algar are inseparable from Callosa d’en Sarrià, the municipality where they are located. This village, once an Arab farm, lies in a lush green valley surrounded by such impressive peaks as the Aitana (1,558 m) and the Bernia (1,128 m).
Callosa is internationally known for its fruit, especially the medlar (níspero), which grows abundantly here thanks to the waters of the Algar River and has a protected designation of origin.
In addition to the famous waterfalls, also called the Font de Fonts (Source of Springs), the village itself offers an interesting cultural life and an anthropological museum. The area is a paradise for nature lovers, with well-marked hiking trails, opportunities for horseback riding and a municipal campground for those who want to stay longer.
Planning your visit: everything you need to know
Good preparation is essential for a successful day. Below you will find the most up-to-date, practical information.
Buy tickets
It is highly recommended that you buy your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.
- Buy online: tickets can be purchased online up to 24 hours in advance through the official website: www.lasfuentesdelalgar.com. This ensures your admission. Please note that it is not possible to buy same-day tickets online;
- At the box office: you can also buy tickets at the box office on the day of your visit, but this is only possible as long as capacity has not been reached;
- Buy day trip tickets online: for those who seek convenience and prefer not to drive themselves, an organized day trip is an excellent option. Excursions are offered from the following coastal towns that combine a visit to the Fonts d’Algar with the nearby mountain village of Guadalest. The great advantage is that transportation there and back, clear planning and often the entrance ticket to the falls are already included:
Parking
- Free parking: there is free parking at theTourist Office, about 700 meters from the main entrance. Another 100 meters before that is another free lot;
- Paid & private parking: restaurants in the area have parking for their customers. There are also several private parking lots that cost about €5.
Tip: Along the way up, you will encounter many parking lots. Continue as far up as possible. The parking lots (pay admittedly) closest to the entrance save you a considerable and steep hike up.
Food & drink: important rules
- What not to bring: alcoholic beverages and glass containers are prohibited in the park;
- Picnic zone: you may bring your own food, but it may only be consumed in the picnic zone. This zone is located in the upper part of the park and has tables, shade, restrooms and a playground;
- Rules in July & August: in these months food is absolutely not allowed to enter the swimming area. You must then enter through Entrance 2 (Entrada 2 + Picnic). There are free lockers here to temporarily store your food;
- Outside the park: around the grounds you will find 5 restaurants and a campground with its own picnic area and barbecues.
Visit in summer (July 1 to Aug. 31)
In high season, the visit is divided into 3 time slots (sessions) to spread out the crowds:
- Session 1: 09:00 to 13:00;
- Session 2: 1 p.m. to 4 p.m;
- Session 3: 16:00 to 20:00.
Tip: arrive at the beginning of your chosen time slot for maximum visitation time. You must leave the park before the end of your session.
Activities and rules in the park
Facilities in the park
The park is equipped with various services to facilitate and enrich the visit. This includes a tourist office, parking lots, restrooms, a first aid post, an Arboretum (a tree garden with local species), the picnic area and a campground.
Swimming and safety
Swimming in the river is allowed. A lifeguard is present during the Easter vacations and in summer. Outside these periods, swimming is at your own risk.
Footwear and clothing
- In the water: wearing water shoes is strongly recommended. The rocks in the river are uneven and slippery;
- On the trails: for the hiking trail, wear flat, comfortable shoes.
Pet access
- Allowed (Sept. 16-June 14): pets are welcome if leashed. They are not allowed in the water and excrement must be cleaned up;
- Not allowed (June 15 – Sept 15): pets are prohibited during the busy summer season.
Plan Algar waterfalls
Combine the Algar waterfalls with a visit to Guadalest
A visit to the Algar waterfalls can be perfectly combined with a trip to the breathtaking mountain village of El Castell de Guadalest, making it one of the most popular day trips on the Costa Blanca.
Just a 20-minute drive from the falls, you’ll find this historic village built on a rock like an eagle’s nest. After a refreshing morning in the cool waters of the Algar, spend the afternoon exploring the castle ruins of San José and enjoying the spectacular views of the bright blue reservoir.
Delicious food in the area
After an active day of swimming and hiking, the perfect way to end the experience is with dinner in one of the charming coastal towns nearby. Just a short drive away, you’ll find several options for every taste and mood:
- Altea: drive to the famous old town(Casco Antiguo) with its white houses, narrow streets and church square. Or visit the El Bol boulevard. Both in the center and on the beach you will find many restaurants, many with stunning views of the Mediterranean;
- View all restaurant tips in Altea.
- Albir: is there no place in Altea? Then drive on to Albir. Although a small town, it has a wide range of restaurants, especially along the long El Paseo de las Estrellas, the marble boulevard;
- View all restaurant tips in Albir.
- Calpe: the Rock of Ifach divides the coast of Calpe. South of it, at the promenade of Playa del Arenal-Bol and in the old town, you’ll find traditional restaurants and tapas bars. To the north, on the promenade of Playa de la Fossa, you’ll dine with a direct view of the rock;
- View all restaurant tips in Calpe.
Publication date:
13 June 2025
Publication date: 13 June 2025
Updated on:
5 January 2026
Updated on: 5 January 2026
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