If you head inland on the Costa Blanca and you may find yourself drawn to the beautiful Carrascal de la Font Roja Natural Park.
Located between the towns of Alcoy and Ibi, this protected landscape ranks among the best-preserved Mediterranean forests in the region. Locals often call it simply La Font Roja Natural Park, and authorities have protected it as a natural space since 1987.
Unlike the rugged, sun-baked mountains closer to the coast, La Font Roja offers a very different atmosphere. Dense woodland, deep ravines and remarkable biodiversity create a landscape that feels almost like something from a fairy tale.
Walkers enjoy the cool, shaded trails, abundant wildlife and dramatic scenery.
A unique Mediterranean forest
The name Carrascal refers to the dominant tree in the park: the holm oak,
known locally as carrasca.
These oak forests mix with other species such as maples, ash trees and even the rare yew, creating a varied landscape that shifts beautifully with the seasons.
The park covers more than 2,200 hectares and supports an impressive range of wildlife. If you are lucky, you may spot signs of wild boar or badgers, while birds of prey such as the Bonelli’s eagle and the Peregrine falcon often soar high above the mountains.
Thanks to this biodiversity, scientists regard the park as one of the most important ecological areas in the region.
Traces of the past
Although nature takes centre stage here, the park also preserves reminders of traditional mountain life.
Along several trails you will come across old lime kilns, rural farmhouses known as masías, and historic ice wells called neveres or cavas.
These structures date back to a time when local communities collected snow during winter and stored it underground to produce ice for the warmer months. One of the most impressive examples is the Cava Coloma.
Walking trails through the park
La Font Roja reveals its beauty best on foot. Several clearly marked hiking routes begin near the visitor centre and the sanctuary at the main entrance.
Some of the most popular trails include:
Red Route – Barranc de l’Infern
A relatively easy walk along a scenic forest path, with wooden steps leading towards the impressive “Hell’s Cave”. It offers an excellent introduction to the park.
Yellow Route – Mirador de Pilatos
This route leads to one of the finest viewpoints in the park. Spring and autumn bring particularly spectacular scenery.
Blue Route – Pla de la Mina
This trail passes replicas of traditional charcoal kilns and lime ovens, explaining how these crafts once supported local communities.
The climb to El Menejador
For hikers seeking more of a challenge, the climb to El Menejador should not be missed.
At 1,356 metres, it stands as the highest point in the park. The path climbs steadily through the forest before reaching the summit, where panoramic views reward walkers. On clear days, the Mediterranean Sea even appears in the distance.
Explore nearby by bike
Cyclists can also explore the area along the Via Verde de Alcoy.
This car-free route follows the path of a former railway line, passing through tunnels and crossing dramatic viaducts, including the striking Seven Moons Viaduct. Along the way, riders enjoy sweeping views of both La Font Roja and the nearby Sierra de Mariola Natural Park.
Planning your visit
The historic town of Alcoy serves as the main gateway to the park, located around 11 kilometres from the entrance.
Alcoy itself rewards a visit thanks to its striking modernist architecture, impressive bridges and lively cultural traditions.
Visitors can reach the main park entrance by road from Alcoy.
Address: Font Roja 20, 03818 Alcoy, Alicante
At the entrance you will find:
- A parking area
- The Font Roja sanctuary
- A visitor centre with maps and information
- A restaurant and picnic areas
The visitor centre offers the best starting point for learning about the trails, wildlife and history of the park before setting out to explore.
