Alicante, with its sun-drenched coastline, historic landmarks, and picturesque landscapes, is a paradise for photography enthusiasts. The city offers a variety of walking routes that not only provide a great way to explore the area but also present countless opportunities to capture stunning photographs. Whether you’re interested in urban landscapes, natural beauty, or panoramic views, Alicante has a walking route that will inspire your inner photographer. In this blog, we’ll explore the best walking routes in Alicante for scenic photography.
1. Santa Bárbara Castle and Mount Benacantil
Route Overview
The hike to Santa Bárbara Castle is one of the most rewarding walking routes in Alicante, offering both historical insights and breathtaking views. Starting from the city center, you’ll ascend Mount Benacantil, where the castle is perched. The route is steep in places, but the effort is well worth it, as you’ll be treated to panoramic views of Alicante, the Mediterranean Sea, and the surrounding mountains.
Photography Highlights
- Panoramic Views: From the top of the castle, you can capture stunning wide-angle shots of the entire city, the harbor, and the distant coastline.
- Historic Architecture: The castle itself is a treasure trove of photo opportunities, with its ancient walls, towers, and courtyards providing a sense of Alicante’s rich history.
- Sunrise and Sunset: The views from Mount Benacantil are particularly magical during sunrise and sunset, when the light casts a golden glow over the landscape.
2. Cabo de la Huerta Coastal Trail
Route Overview
Cabo de la Huerta is a rugged headland located just north of Alicante. The coastal trail here offers a scenic walk along the rocky shoreline, with the Mediterranean Sea on one side and natural landscapes on the other. This route is relatively easy and is perfect for those who want to enjoy a peaceful walk with plenty of opportunities to photograph the natural beauty of Alicante.
Photography Highlights
- Rocky Coves and Cliffs: The rugged coastline is full of dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and rock formations that make for striking compositions.
- Lighthouse: The Cabo de la Huerta lighthouse is a popular subject for photography, especially at dusk when the light is soft, and the lighthouse stands out against the sky.
- Marine Life: The clear waters around Cabo de la Huerta are ideal for underwater photography, particularly if you have a waterproof camera or a GoPro.
3. Explanada de España and Alicante Marina
Route Overview
For those who prefer an urban setting, a walk along the Explanada de España and the Alicante Marina is a must. The Explanada is one of Alicante’s most iconic promenades, running parallel to the seafront and lined with palm trees. It’s a relatively flat and easy walk that takes you through the heart of the city’s vibrant waterfront.
Photography Highlights
- Mosaic Tiles: The Explanada’s wave-like mosaic pattern, made up of millions of marble tiles, is a unique and colorful subject for close-up and abstract photography.
- Palm Trees: The rows of palm trees lining the promenade provide a classic Mediterranean feel and are perfect for framing shots of the walkway and surrounding buildings.
- Marina Views: The Alicante Marina is a lively area filled with luxury yachts, sailboats, and charming waterfront restaurants. The reflections of boats in the water create beautiful photographic opportunities, especially at sunset.
4. Parque Natural del Montgó
Route Overview
A bit further from Alicante, but well worth the trip, is the Montgó Natural Park. Located between Alicante and Denia, this natural park offers a variety of walking routes through forests, cliffs, and mountainous terrain. The Montgó mountain, which dominates the landscape, provides some of the most breathtaking views in the region.
Photography Highlights
- Mountain Vistas: The panoramic views from the top of Montgó are some of the best in the Costa Blanca, offering sweeping vistas of the coastline, distant mountains, and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea.
- Flora and Fauna: The park is home to a diverse range of plant and animal life, making it a great spot for nature photography. Look out for wildflowers, birds, and the occasional mountain goat.
- Dramatic Cliffs: The rugged cliffs along the coastline provide excellent opportunities for dramatic landscape photography, especially when the light casts shadows and highlights the textures of the rock.
5. Serra Grossa
Route Overview
The Serra Grossa, or the “Fat Mountain,” is a popular walking and hiking destination located just outside Alicante’s city center. The trail is moderately challenging but offers some of the best views of Alicante’s coastline and urban landscape. The route takes you through a combination of natural terrain and old quarry sites, adding a unique element to your walk.
Photography Highlights
- Panoramic Cityscapes: From the top of Serra Grossa, you can capture expansive shots of Alicante’s skyline, with the Mediterranean Sea providing a stunning backdrop.
- Old Quarries: The abandoned quarries along the route are fascinating subjects for photography, with their weathered stone walls and the contrast between man-made and natural elements.
- Sunset Views: Serra Grossa is another fantastic spot for sunset photography, offering a different perspective of the city as the lights begin to twinkle below.
6. Tabarca Island
Route Overview
A short boat ride from Alicante’s coast takes you to Tabarca Island, a small and charming island that’s perfect for a day of exploration and photography. The island’s compact size makes it easy to walk around, and you’ll find plenty of spots to stop and take in the scenery.
Photography Highlights
- Crystal-Clear Waters: The waters around Tabarca are incredibly clear, making them perfect for photographing marine life, underwater scenes, or just the beautiful blue hues of the sea.
- Historic Village: The island’s small village features narrow streets, whitewashed houses, and historic buildings that are full of character and offer a glimpse into traditional island life.
- Seascapes: The rocky coastline and small beaches of Tabarca provide plenty of opportunities for seascape photography, particularly at sunrise when the island is bathed in soft, golden light.
7. Guadalest Valley and Embalse de Guadalest
Route Overview
For a more inland experience, the Guadalest Valley, located about an hour’s drive from Alicante, is a stunning area surrounded by mountains and home to the picturesque Embalse de Guadalest (Guadalest Reservoir). The walking routes around the reservoir and up to the village of Guadalest offer spectacular scenery at every turn.
Photography Highlights
- Turquoise Reservoir: The reservoir’s vibrant turquoise water is a striking subject, especially when contrasted with the surrounding green hills and blue sky.
- Medieval Castle: The village of Guadalest is dominated by a medieval castle perched on a cliff, offering fantastic opportunities for dramatic landscape and architecture photography.
- Mountain Views: The surrounding mountains provide a stunning backdrop for your photos, with plenty of vantage points along the walking routes to capture the beauty of the valley.
Alicante’s diverse landscapes and coastal beauty make it a perfect destination for photographers looking to capture the essence of the Mediterranean. Whether you’re interested in urban scenes, rugged coastlines, or panoramic mountain views, these walking routes offer the best of Alicante’s scenery. So grab your camera, lace up your walking shoes, and get ready to explore the scenic photography opportunities that Alicante has to offer.