Sierra De Aitana Trek

Day 1
Start Alicante Airport. Drive to the little village of Castell de Castells, where we stay in the lovely Hotel Serrella, situated on the footstep of Serrella. There is time in the afternoon to take a stroll around the village, visit the local ethnological museum or enjoy the recently opened Hotel Spa with amazing views across the mountains.

Day 2
From Castells de Castells we take the old correuero footpath (postman's route) that climbs towards Pla de Daialt, a traditional farm settlement, and then up to the most spectacular rock formation of Arc del Atanços, a twin rock arch with an overwhelming presence that always surprises the very few walkers that get to this place.
From here, along tracks on the south face we get to the Summit of Aixortá (1166m) enjoying the fantastic views of Bernia Ridge on the east and on the north the depths of Barranc de Bolulla the second deepest gorge in the area (after Barranc del Infern on the adjacent Marina Alta Trek). From the summit, descend and lunch at Font dels Teixos spring waters. From this point we'll head down to meet the Castell de Bolulla where reach the last section of the correuero footpath again, leading back to Castell de Castells. Duration of walk: 7 hours

Day 3
We walk up to the ruins of the castle, where we can enjoy the views of the most terraced valley of the area, the north slopes of Aitana. Then we climb the Serrella Mountain, through the Coll de la Canal to Pico Serrella and then descend to Abdet. We spend the whole day on the crest of the mountains with wonderful views on both sides. Along the way we will see snow wells that used to collect snow in the winter and supply it in summer to the fishing village of Calpe for preserving the day's catch. We spend the next 2 nights in El Trestellador, a classic Spanish pension situated above Guadalest village with views of the Mediterranean and the coast from the rooms. Duration of walk: 7½ hours

Day 4
Walk up from the pension along the northern slopes to the Font de Partagat and then scramble through Pas de la Rabosa, the only natural break on the Aitana, which gives access to the summit from this north side. We have lunch at the Simas limestone fissures, up to 90m deep, situated on a ridge near the summit of Aitana. It is an impressive geological formation and a perfect place to have our picnic. If there is good weather, there's an optional climb to the summit. We return back to Trestellador along the ridge down to Peno Mulero, probably the most scenic descent and dramatic views of the whole trek. Duration of walk: 6½ hours

Day 5
Walk to Sella along the most spectacular limestone peaks and needles of Pena Roc, through El Salt down to the Barranc de Sanchet. This area enchants people with its soaring towers and walls of rock all around. Early sunset lights will catch the spine of the jagged Castellets ridge that stretches down to Orxeta. At the climber's refuge at Font de l'Arc we take a tea/coffee/beer break before the last stretch to the village of Sella, discovering the beautiful 'huertas' green orchard with its citrus plantations, vegetable gardens and ancient water irrigation channels. We stay at L'Hort de Gloria a private farmhouse with a swimming pool (seasonal) near the village with wonderful views, gardens, and great hosts. Duration of walk: 6½ hours

Day 6
A fairly tough walk to complete the week - the summit of the Puig Campana (1410m) with a 360° view! Almost all of the peaks and ridges traversed on the previous days may be seen. On the other side the Mediterranean stretches to the horizon. We approach the north face of this mountain along good trails and paths, embarking on a gentle climb passing the Collao del Llamp to the Collao Pouet, the actual base of the mountain. From here, we climb a new footpath on the north face of this spectacular peak, returning to our vehicle by the Sacarest access, over the Castellets. Return by vehicle to Sella. Duration of walk: 7 hours

Day 7
A free day to relax or explore the lovely village of Sella, visiting the hermita (shrine), the Molí de Baix (one of the best preserved water mills of the Mediterranean, just under our guest house!). Alternatively, head for a quiet beach near the town of Villa Joiosa and visit the chocolate museum or sea kayaking or Altea where there are handcraft shops and art galleries (transfers not included).

Day 8
Transfer to Alicante airport after breakfast. If your flight leaves before the group flight, please note a private transfer from Sella to Alicante airport will be EUR75 (paid locally to taxi driver).