Cicerone 2022
A multi-activity guide to outdoor adventure in Spain's Costa Blanca, with 60 route suggestions covering ridge scrambles, via ferrata, canyoning, sport climbing, trad climbing, hiking, trail running and mountain biking. Many routes require climbing experience, although they vary in difficulty, with options suitable for a range of abilities.
Seasons
The Costa Blanca season is long, with the optimum time for a visit being between October and early May. The Gota Fria (a cold, unsettled spell) sometimes visits during autumn and can linger for a week or two.
Centres
Easy access from Alicante. The Jalon/Xalo valley makes a great base. If you prefer to be on the coast, the Calpe/Altea area works well, though there are plenty of other options, including La Nucia, Denia and Benidorm.
Difficulty
From easy walking routes right through to 500m trad-climbing routes and technical canyon descents. All routes are graded, with plenty of mid-grade options. Your chosen activity may require particular skills and equipment, details of which are provided in the guide.
Must See
The alpinesque Castellets ridge and iconic Puig Campana - a mountaineer's delight; near-subterranean adventure in the Barranco del Infierno; cycling the famous Col de Rates
