Between the picturesque towns of Dénia and Jávea, in the province of Alicante, lies the Montgó Natural Park. This impressive mountain massif creates one of the most recognisable profiles of the entire Costa Blanca. Standing 753 metres high, this mountain, which the ancient Phoenician navigators christened “the elephant” due to its characteristic silhouette, is waiting to offer you some of the most rewarding hiking experiences to be found on the Spanish Levante.
The Montgó is not just a mountain; it is an authentic natural treasure that combines an extraordinary scenic interest with an exceptional botanical richness and a remarkable historical value. All this makes this protected area a destination you can’t miss if you are nature lovers, hikers or simply looking for an experience that connects you with the Mediterranean environment.
Best houses near Montgo
Conquering the summit: a privileged ascent
There are several routes to climb to the summit of Montgó, but the most popular and accessible one starts from the so-called “Camí de la Colònia”, on the Dénia side. This path, well signposted and well maintained, ascends progressively through a leafy Mediterranean forest, where pines, carob trees and holm oaks predominate. As you advance, the vegetation becomes more scattered, giving way to a rocky terrain that announces the proximity of the summit.
During the ascent, the views become more and more impressive. To the north, the coastal plain of Dénia stretches out. To the west, the silhouette of the Sierra de Bernia is silhouetted on the horizon, while to the south, the bay of Jávea and the cape of San Antonio offer a spectacular panoramic view. The final stretch to the summit requires a little more attention, with some rocky steps which, although not technically difficult, require caution and suitable footwear.
Once at the summit, the reward is indescribable. The sea seems to be within reach on both sides of the mountain, creating a unique perspective that makes the hiker feel as if they are on an island high above the Mediterranean. On particularly clear days, the panoramic view includes the Balearic Islands on the horizon, completing a dreamlike landscape that more than compensates for the effort made.
The ascent and descent route is approximately 9 kilometres long, with a cumulative difference in altitude of about 750 metres. It can be completed in 4-5 hours, including stops to rest and enjoy the views. It is of moderate difficulty, being accessible to people in normal physical condition and with basic hiking experience.
A treasure trove of Mediterranean biodiversity
One of the great values of Montgó is its extraordinary biodiversity. The natural park is home to more than 650 plant species, including several endemic species that cannot be found anywhere else on the planet. This richness is explained by the variety of microclimates created by its particular orography and its proximity to the sea.
During the ascent, you can observe the succession of different plant communities. In the lower areas, the Mediterranean forest predominates, with pines, holm oaks and carob trees. As you gain altitude, the vegetation adapts to the more extreme conditions, giving way to rupicolous species that grow in the crevices of the rocks. In spring, the colourful wild flowers, such as rosemary, lavender, lilies and numerous orchids, turn the route into a true spectacle for the senses.
Among the most outstanding species is the Silene de Ifach (Silene hifacensis), a small plant with white flowers that only grows in some areas of the Montgó and the Peñón de Ifach. Another botanical jewel is the Montgó Cardosanta (Centaurea rouyi), an endemic plant with a very restricted distribution.
In terms of fauna, the Montgó is home to numerous species of birds of prey, such as the Bonelli’s eagle, the peregrine falcon and the eagle owl. These birds can be spotted quite easily if you observe them carefully and patiently. It is also possible to encounter mammals such as foxes, genets and wild boar, although these are more elusive and difficult to see during the day.
Other routes in the natural park
In addition to the ascent to the summit, the Montgó Natural Park offers other routes of great interest:
- La Cova de l’Aigua: A shorter and simpler route that leads to an ancient cave used since prehistoric times to collect rainwater that filtered through cracks in the rock. In addition to its historical interest, it offers spectacular views of the bay of Jávea.
- The route of the Montgó Caves: This route along the southern slope allows you to visit several karst caves where archaeological remains have been found that show evidence of human presence since the Palaeolithic period. It is an excellent option to combine nature and history.
- Cape San Antonio: Located at the eastern end of the massif, this cape offers impressive cliffs and a marine reserve with easy routes suitable for the whole family. It is an ideal place to enjoy coastal walks and observe the marine flora and fauna.
Recommendations for the visit
- Ideal time of year: Although the climate allows these routes to be done all year round, spring is particularly recommended due to the floral explosion and pleasant temperatures. In summer, it is preferable to avoid the central hours of the day due to the heat.
- Equipment: It is essential to bring suitable hiking shoes, sun protection, a hat and enough water, as there are no fountains on the routes. A trekking pole may be useful on the rockier sections.
- Protection of the environment: It is essential to respect the rules of the natural park, to stay on the marked trails and not to collect plants, many of which are protected because of their rarity. It is also important not to leave litter and to carry a bag to keep your rubbish in.
- Additional information: The Interpretation Centre of the Natural Park, located in Dénia, offers exhibitions and informative material that will help to better understand the natural and historical values of this protected area. It is a good starting point to plan your visit.
The Montgó Natural Park represents one of the most valuable natural jewels of the Costa Blanca. Its trails not only offer incomparable panoramic views, but also the opportunity to enter a privileged natural environment where every corner hides botanical and faunal treasures. Whether conquering its summit, exploring its caves or enjoying its cliffs, the Montgó is a destination that combines adventure, history and nature in an incomparable setting. A place that undoubtedly deserves to be discovered and preserved for future generations.
