The hike to the Albir Lighthouse is a must-do excursion for nature lovers on the Costa Blanca. Nestled in the Sierra Helada (Serra Gelada) Natural Park, between the towns of Altea and Benidorm, this walk offers an exceptional panorama of the Mediterranean and the surrounding cliffs. Accessible to everyone, it combines an easy coastal stroll with the discovery of an iconic historical site. Get your hiking shoes ready: we’ll take you step by step to the charming Albir Lighthouse!
The Winding Trail to the Albir Lighthouse
The trail leading to the Albir Lighthouse winds along the cliffs of the Sierra Helada Natural Park. At the tip of the headland, the lighthouse overlooks the deep blue Mediterranean.
Detailed Itinerary of the Albir Lighthouse Hike
The route to the Albir Lighthouse is a round-trip hike of about 5 km (2.5 km one way) on a paved path with no major difficulty. The well-maintained trail makes it an easy and family-friendly hike, even accessible with a stroller or wheelchair. Plan for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours for the round trip, allowing time to enjoy the viewpoints and nature stops. Here are the key stages of the hike:
1. Starting Point – Albir Information Center:
The trail begins at the Serra Gelada Natural Park information center in Albir. A free parking lot is available near the starting point. Here, you’ll find a picnic area with tables and benches, as well as an informational board about the park. Before you even start, enjoy the view of the surrounding peaks, including Puig Campana towering over Benidorm in the distance.
2. Gradual Climb to the Viewpoints:
Take the wide asphalt path that gently ascends. After a few hundred meters, the trail offers the first panoramic viewpoint over Altea Bay. A circular lookout allows you to admire the coastline and spot the famous Peñón de Ifach rock in Calpe. The Mediterranean stretches endlessly, framed by the spectacular reliefs of Sierra Helada.
3. The Tunnel and "Boca de la Ballena":
The path then leads to a small tunnel carved into the rock to cross to the other side of the promontory. Just before entering the tunnel, a dirt path to the left descends to a small hidden cove called Cala del Metge (“Doctor’s Cove”). After the tunnel, look up to the right: you’ll see a natural cavity in the rock known as Boca de la Ballena (Whale’s Mouth), or Cova de Bou in Valencian. This cliffside cave is a remarkable geological curiosity, a result of the karstic erosion of the massif.
4. Cala de la Mina and Old Ochre Mines (Optional):
About 300 meters after the tunnel, a marked trail on the right slopes gently down to Cala de la Mina and the remains of the ochre mines. These mines, originally exploited during Phoenician and later Roman times, were used to extract ochre pigment for dyeing until the early 20th century. This detour provides an interesting glimpse into local history. Note: This section is steeper and rockier than the rest of the hike, so proper footwear is recommended if you choose to descend.
5. Arrival at the Albir Lighthouse:
The main trail ends at the tip of the headland, where the Albir Lighthouse (also called Faro de Punta Bombarda) stands. Perched ~112 meters above sea level, this small white lighthouse dominates the ochre cliffs and the vast blue sea. You’ll reach the lighthouse gate (access inside is generally closed to the public), but just before the building, a final viewpoint to the left brings you to the cliff’s edge. From here, the panoramic view is stunning: the full splendor of Altea Bay, the sparkling Mediterranean waters, and, on clear days, the silhouette of the Peñón de Ifach and the contours of the coastline further east. After enjoying the scenery and taking plenty of photos, simply retrace your steps to return to the starting point.
Discovering the Local Flora and Fauna
The Albir Lighthouse is located in the heart of the Sierra Helada Natural Park, a protected area recognized for its exceptional biodiversity. Throughout the hike, keep an eye out for the rich local flora and fauna.
Preserved Mediterranean Flora
The rugged slopes of Sierra Helada are dominated by Mediterranean vegetation. The scents of pine forests and scrubland accompany hikers: large Aleppo pines cover the gentler slopes, while more exposed areas host drought-resistant shrubs such as mastic trees, cade junipers, rosemary, and various species of rockroses. The dwarf palm (Chamaerops humilis), the only naturally occurring palm in Europe, grows sporadically on the dry hillsides. In spring, a multitude of small wildflowers add color to the trail, attracting butterflies.
Seabirds and Other Wildlife
Birdwatchers will be delighted: Sierra Helada is one of the most important sanctuaries in the region for seabirds. As you walk along the cliff, you’ll frequently see seagulls soaring on the updrafts. With luck, you might spot the Audouin’s gull, a rare Mediterranean species. Shags nest on the rocky ledges, often drying their wings in the sun on the promontories. Occasionally, small black birds skimming the waves might be storm petrels or groups of shearwaters (Scopoli’s shearwater, Balearic shearwater) fishing offshore. The nature reserve also shelters a few birds of prey: you may even spot a peregrine falcon hunting near the cliffs. On land, the park is home to typical Valencian scrubland creatures: lizards basking on rocks, geckos emerging at dusk, and a few discreet rabbits and rodents. If you scan the distant horizon, you might even glimpse the fin of a dolphin, highlighting the rich marine life of the coastal reserve.
A Brief History of the Albir Lighthouse
Inaugurated in 1863, the Albir Lighthouse still retains its traditional white 19th-century architecture. Built on Punta Bombarda, it once guided ships along the rocky coast of Altea.
The lighthouse was constructed on the ruins of a 16th-century watchtower, Torre Bombarda, which once served as a lookout against Barbary pirates. This continuity of function—from watchtower to lighthouse—reflects the strategic importance of this promontory for coastal surveillance.
The lighthouse was permanently inhabited by two families until the early 1960s, when it was automated. Restored in 2011, it now houses a small interpretive center dedicated to the environment and local history. While it isn’t open to the public like a traditional museum, information panels outside provide insights into its past.
Practical Tips for Hikers
To make the most of your hike to the Albir Lighthouse, keep these tips in mind:
- Access and Starting Point: The trailhead is at the end of Camí Vell del Far in Albir, near the natural park’s information center. Free parking is available at the entrance (but fills up quickly on weekends in peak season). The site is also reachable on foot from Albir Beach in about 20 minutes.
- Duration and Difficulty: Expect about 1.5 to 2 hours round trip. The hike is easy, with a minimal elevation gain (~100 m) and a wide asphalt path. No prior hiking experience is needed.
- Recommended Gear: Wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes. Bring water, a hat, and sunscreen in summer, and a light jacket in winter. Binoculars and a camera are great for birdwatching and scenic shots.
- Best Time to Hike: The trail is accessible year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather, while summer mornings or late afternoons are best to avoid the heat. Sunsets at the lighthouse are breathtaking.
Conclusion
Hiking to the Albir Lighthouse is a must if you’re visiting Costa Blanca. Combining ease, stunning seascapes, and historical interest, this trail offers a glimpse into the natural and cultural heritage of Alfaz del Pi. Whether you're a beginner hiker or an experienced trekker, with family or friends, this natural paradise will leave you captivated, with unforgettable views and a breath of fresh sea air.
Enjoy your hike!
