If you enjoy discovering the quieter, greener side of the Costa Blanca, Elda has just given walkers an excuse to lace up their boots.
The town now boasts a brand new circular walking route that invites both walkers to explore its landscapes, wildlife and deep rooted history, all in one leisurely hike.
This newly marked trail winds its way through some of Elda’s most distinctive natural and heritage sites. Along the route, walkers pass through the largest tamarisk grove in southern Europe, alongside ancient water management systems and old defensive landmarks that tell the story of the area over centuries.
Elda: A walk through centuries of local life
The route feels like a journey through time. You will stroll beneath mature tamarisk trees, spot old lime kilns once vital to local industry, follow the line of the Vinalopó River, and reach the Elda reservoir and dam. One of the highlights is La Torreta, a strategic hilltop location that once marked borders and witnessed historic conflicts. From there, the trail loops neatly back to its starting point at Casa Colorá.
Cristina Rodríguez Armigen, Elda’s Councillor for the Environment, says the trail is “a clear commitment to showcasing our natural and cultural heritage” while offering a sustainable way to enjoy places that form part of the town’s identity.
Step by step along the route
The walk begins at the entrance to Casa Colorá, heading downhill along Calle Hinojo towards the river parking area. From there, the path turns left and follows the Vinalopó, first alongside houses and then deeper into peaceful tamarisk woodland, until reaching the old power station.
After passing it, the trail veers right into a quieter stretch of riverside forest. Eventually, the landscape opens up, with the A-31 and CV-8353 visible above, while the track continues beside the river towards the Elda reservoir dam. Walkers climb up and over the dam before descending again, passing beneath the Madrid–Alicante railway line. At this point, there is an optional detour along the lime kiln route.
Those sticking to the main trail continue straight on and soon turn left onto the Torreta path. After walking under a water aqueduct, a short trail leads directly up to the tower. From there, cross the road and descend via the old Elda–Sax road. Just before reaching the main junction, a path on the left reconnects with the lime kiln bypass. The final stretch follows Calle Tomillo, which leads down to Avenida de la Libertad and back to Casa Colorá.
Practical details
The circular route measures 6.3 kilometres, with a total ascent and descent of 289 metres. Most walkers will complete it in around two hours and ten minutes, making it an ideal half day walk of local history.
