Font Roja (Carrascal de la Fuente Roja) Natural Park

1. Discover, get to know La Fuente Roja

A unique Mediterranean forest

The Name Carrascal refers to the type of forest that dominates here: a forest of holm oaks (carrascas), mixed with other deciduous trees such as maples, ash trees and the rare yew tree. This mix creates an enchanting landscape that shows a different face in each season, the absolute highlight being the spectacular display of colors in autumn.

With more than 2,200 acres, the park is a haven for rich wildlife. With any luck, you can find tracks of wild boar or badgers, and birds of prey such as the Bonelli’s eagle and the peregrine falcon regularly circle above the mountain peaks. The biodiversity here is so high that it is considered one of the Valencian Community’s most important ecological treasures.

Traces of human activity

Although nature plays the main role here, man has left his mark over the centuries. Scattered throughout the park you will find the remains of traditional activities that took advantage of the forest’s resources.

Think old lime kilns, farms (masías) and the iconic ice cellars ( neveres or cavas), which bear witness to a time when snow and ice were a precious commodity. The most impressive of these is the Cava Coloma.

2. Experience, the climb step by step to the top

La Fuente Roja is a park best explored on foot. There is a network of well-marked, official hiking trails that start at the visitor center and the shrine.

The official hiking trails

The park offers several routes, identified by colors, that take you past the most beautiful places.

• Red route – Barranc de l’Infern: an easy route that leads you along a picturesque path with wooden steps to the impressive Hell’s Cave. A wonderful walk to get a taste of the atmosphere of the forest;

• Yellow route – Mirador de Pilatos: This route takes you to a breathtaking viewpoint over the valley. Especially in spring and autumn, the view here is phenomenal due to the beauty of colors;

• Blue route – Pla de la Mina: an interesting walk that leads you to a place where replicas of an old charcoal pile and a lime kiln stand, with explanations of these ancient crafts.

The climb to the top: El Menejador

For the hiker seeking a greater challenge, the ascent of El Menejador is the absolute must. With its 1,356 meters this is the highest point in the park.

The route to the summit is a steady climb through the dense forest. Once at the top, you are rewarded with panoramic views that on a clear day reach from the surrounding mountains to the Mediterranean Sea.

A bike ride along the edge of the park: the Vía Verde de Alcoy

A unique way to explore the park’s surroundings is by bicycle along the Vía Verde de Alcoy. This car-free bike path follows the route of an old railroad line and takes you through tunnels and over spectacular viaducts, such as the famous viaduct of the ‘Seven Moons’ (Siete Lunas). You cycle along the edge of the park and enjoy beautiful views of both the Sierra de Mariola and La Fuente Roja.

3. Visiting, practical info for your visit

The gateway: Alcoy

The historic town Alcoy is the main gateway to La Fuente Roja. It is just 11 kilometers from the entrance to the park. Alcoy itself is also worth a visit, with its modernist architecture, imposing bridges and vibrant cultural traditions.

How to get there.

The main entrance to the park is easiest to reach by car. Follow the signs from Alcoy.

• Address: Font Roja 20, 03818 Alcoi, Alicante;
• Parking: There is a parking lot at the entrance, where you will also find the sanctuary, visitor center and a restaurant;
• Information: at the visitor center you can get maps, information about the trails and the flora and fauna of the park.

A day trip to the mountains from your seaside resort

The natural park is centrally located inland from Alicante, making it a perfect day trip from most of the popular coastal towns on the Costa Blanca North. The tranquility and green mountains are a wonderful contrast to the beach life. A visit can be particularly well combined with a stay in:

• Alicante: From the provincial capital, you can drive to the park’s gateway in less than an hour;

• Benidorm, Altea and Albir: escape the bustle of the coast and be in the middle of unspoiled nature within 45 to 60 minutes;

• Villajoyosa and Calpe: also from these places La Font Roja is easily accessible for a day of hiking fun.

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