“Jumping from boulder to boulder and never falling, with a heavy pack, is easier than it sounds; you just can’t fall when you get into the rhythm of the dance.” ― Jack Kerouac, The Dharma Bums

Being Norwegians we are not easily impressed when it comes to mountains. That said, the Costa Blanca mountains are by all means impressive. From Camp El Planet we have the ocean a short walk one way and turning around we have the impressive sights and ridges of Puig Campana, Monte Ponoig and Serra Bernia forming a towering and majestic horseshoe around the lower valley. Straight up from ocean raise Serra Helada and the landmark of Calpe; Penon de Ifach.

The contrasts are as fascinating as they are breathtaking. Add to the scenery the special micro climate we enjoy in the region and you’ll know why this is heaven for hikers and climbers. Here you can enjoy the outdoors all year.

There’s literally a mountain of books and articles published about mountain walking in the Costa Blanca. If you opt for books about walking the Costa Blanca mountains there are several. They all contain fairly comprehensive descriptions of various walks; estimated walking times, length, height difference, grading (easy, moderate, difficult), GPS data, maps, sights and how to get there. We have used “Rother Walking Guide Costa Blanca” and “Walk the Costa Blanca Mountains”, and can recommend both. They can be ordered online, cost about € 15 and come in a very handy and manageable size.

For the avid hikers there are many hiking apps available. We use Wikiloc and we’re quite content with it. Also bear in mind that there’s a huge number of trails that are waymarked throughout the trail, and the only need for a map is to get to the trailhead. In such a case the map that comes with your phone will do. Enclosed is a link to the “short walks” registered in the Valencian Community; Pequeno Recorrido. These trails are well maintained, popular and easily navigated. Please note, however, that all the information is in Spanish and Valenciano.