Montgó Massif Natural Park between Dénia & Jávea

1. Discover, get to know Montgó

A mountain with sea views and unique biodiversity

Geologically, the Montgó is an offshoot of the Betic Cordillera, the mountain range that runs through southern Spain and disappears into the sea here, only to reappear further out at the Balearic Islands. This explains its interesting botanical connection to Ibiza. Due to its altitude and location directly on the sea, the Montgó has acted as a natural lighthouse for sailors for centuries.

The park is home to more than 650 different plant species, including many endemic species found only here, such as Carduncellus dianius (a type of thistle). The diversity is great, from dense pine forests and scrub(garrigue) with rosemary and lavender to the special plant communities on the cliffs that are resistant to salt and wind. The fauna is also rich, with birds of prey such as the hawk eagle and peregrine falcon, various reptiles and small mammals.

Traces of a rich past

Montgó and its surroundings have been inhabited since prehistoric times. Important archaeological sites have been discovered in the park:

• Cave paintings: prehistoric paintings have been found in the Cova del Barranc del Mig;
• Iberian settlements: such as Alto de Benimaquia, which testify to early trade with the Phoenicians;
• Roman influences: the proximity of the important Roman port city of Dianium (now Dénia) is palpable;
• Islamic period: the Arabs called the mountain Gebal-Kâun (Mont Caon);
• Middle Ages and later: the construction of hermitages, windmills(Molins de Xàbia) and watchtowers such as the Torre del Gerro for defense against pirates.

2. Experience, the routes and special places

The Montgó invites discovery, whether you are an avid hiker or prefer to enjoy the views with minimal effort.

The climb to the top: Cim del Montgó (the challenge)

This is the best known and most challenging trail, taking you to the highest point of the mountain (753 m). The route is part of the official trail PR-CV 355.

• For whom: experienced hikers with good fitness and gait security. The last stretch requires scrambling;
• Starting point: parking lot at the Campo de Tiro Les Planes shooting range, on the road CV-736 between Dénia and Jávea;
• Characteristics: a well-marked trail (white-and-yellow stripes), but rocky and steep, especially the last part. Little shade;
• Distance: approximately 8-9 km (there and back);
• Duration: count on 3 to 5 hours, depending on your pace and breaks;
• Highlights: the cross(La Creueta) just below the summit and the breathtaking 360-degree view from the top over the coastline, inland and, on a clear day, even Ibiza.

Other hiking trails

In addition to the climb to the summit, there are several other marked trails of varying difficulty:

• Cova de l’Aigua (Water Cave): a shorter but steep walk from the Ermita del Pare Pere (near Dénia) to a cave where water used to be collected. Magnificent views over Dénia;
• Cova del Gamell: a relatively easy route from the Camí de la Colònia to another interesting cave;
• Route to Les Planes: a walk through the flatter part of the park, known as Les Planes, with beautiful views and the old windmills.

Cape San Antonio and the marine reserve

The elephant’s “trunk” ends at Cap de Sant Antoni (Cape San Antonio). This part of the park is easily accessible by car via road CV-736.

• Viewpoints: from the promontory you have a spectacular view of the bay of Jávea and the Mediterranean Sea;
• Lighthouse: the lighthouse itself is not accessible, but the area around it is beautiful;
• Marine reserve: the waters around the cape are a protected marine reserve(Reserva Marina del Cabo de San Antonio). Diving is limited here and requires a permit, but snorkeling is a great way to discover the rich underwater world. It is also a good place for spotting dolphins and seabirds.

The Molins de Xàbia (Mills of Jávea)

On the plateau of Les Planes, along the road to the cape, stand the silhouettes of eleven old windmills from the 18th and 19th centuries. Although they no longer have sails, they are a photogenic landmark with a beautiful view.

3. Visiting, practical info for your visit

The gates: Dénia and Jávea

The towns of Dénia and Jávea (Xàbia) are located on either side of the natural park and are the ideal bases of operations. Both offer plenty of accommodation, restaurants and other amenities.

How to get there.

• By car: the main road through the park is the CV-736, which connects Dénia and Jávea. Along this road you will find the exits to the starting points of the hiking trails, the Cape San Antonio and the mills;
• Starting point summit ascent: navigate to the Campo de Tiro Les Planes shooting range. Turn into the narrow gravel path by the brown sign indicating the hiking trails. At the end is the parking lot;
• Visitor center: for maps, up-to-date information and advice, visit the Centro de Interpretación del Parque Natural del Montgó in Dénia (Finca Bosc de Diana, Camí Sant Joan 1).

The ultimate packing list (for the summit climb)

• Sturdy hiking boots: absolutely essential for the rocky terrain;
• Sufficient water: at least 1.5 to 2 liters per person; there is no water on the road;
• Sun protection: cap, sunglasses, sunscreen (little shade);
• Snacks: for energy during the climb;
• (Windproof) Clothing: layers are recommended, it can be chilly at the summit;
• Charged phone: for emergencies (but note: range is not optimal everywhere).

A day trip from the area

The Parc Natural del Montgó is perfect to visit from several places:

• Dénia and Jávea: the park is literally in their backyard;
• Moraira and Benissa: within 20-30 minutes drive you are at the foot of the mountain;
• Calpe, Altea, Albir and Benidorm: a nice 30-45 minute drive will take you to this beautiful natural area.

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