Castell d’Aixa – A Breathtaking Ridge Walk in the Costa Blanca
Distance: 10 km
Grade: Moderate
Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes to 4 hours
Terrain: Limestone paths, steep ascents, and high ridge trails
Height Gain: 490 m
Map: IGN Pedreguer
Start/Finish Point: Font d’Aixa
Best For: Hikers looking for a mix of historical intrigue and spectacular Mediterranean landscapes
Overview
Although little remains of the ancient fortress of Castell d’Aixa, this hike is not to be missed. The circular route begins at the serene Font d’Aixa, climbs steeply to a col beneath the castle ruins, and traverses a high ridge with sweeping views of the Vall de Pop, inland mountains, and the distant coastline. The trail offers a combination of challenging ascents, panoramic ridgeline paths, and lush terraces, making it an ideal choice for moderately experienced hikers seeking a mix of history and nature.
Directions in Detail
Getting to the Starting Point
From the N332, take the CV-750 heading towards Xaló.
After 4 km, turn right onto a narrow road leading to Llíber.
Continue through the village until you reach a tricky exit onto the main road. Turn right for 100 meters, then left onto the CV-748, following signs for Gata de Gorgos.
Drive 3.8 km and look for a large white house on the left. Turn left onto Camino Font d’Aixa, which winds between houses and continues for another 2.5 km to the parking area at Font d’Aixa.
The Route
Starting Point – Font d’Aixa:
From the parking area near Font d’Aixa, begin by following the yellow and white markers. After about 100 meters, look for a left-hand turn where the trail begins to climb uphill. The path is signposted to Castell d’Aixa and Font de la Xima.
As you ascend, the trail follows the hillside, becoming steeper as you approach the first junction. At this point, you’ll encounter a three-way signpost—take the route that continues uphill, still following signs to the Castell.
Steep Climb to the Ridge:
The path climbs steeply through rugged limestone terrain, eventually reaching a narrow shelf where it turns sharply right. Here, the route passes beneath a fallen boulder before regaining the open hillside. The climb continues until the path crests the ridge, where yellow and white paint flashes guide you along the trail.
The ridge offers a vantage point over the Vall de Pop, with the inland mountains rising dramatically to the west and the Mediterranean shimmering on the horizon. You’ll also spot dramatic shark’s fin ridges below the castle, a striking feature of the landscape.
Summit of Castell d’Aixa:
The summit of Castell d’Aixa, at 606 meters, is marked by a concrete post. Though the castle ruins are minimal, the summit is a fantastic spot to take a break and enjoy the wide-ranging views. On clear days, you can see the coastal towns of the Costa Blanca, adding to the magic of the location.
Traversing the Ridge:
From the summit, continue along the ridge with the Montgó massif directly ahead to the northeast. After approximately 150 meters, look for a cairn marking the start of a descending path on the edge of the left-hand slope.
The trail initially heads left before cutting back to the right, aiming for the col between the summit and a smaller knoll on the ridge. As the path drops down, you’ll encounter an eroded section leading to a well—a surprising find at this altitude.
Passing Subsidiary Peaks:
The route continues along the ridge, bypassing smaller peaks and another well. As you descend further, the trail enters a long, level section, with Montgó visible ahead. The path eventually drops sharply, leading into old terraces planted with olive trees and an area of restored agricultural plots.
Final Descent to Font d’Aixa:
The trail gradually levels out as it approaches a shallow col. From here, descend leftwards toward a concrete road signed to Font d’Aixa. Follow the road downhill, passing a signpost for Barranc de l’Aigua. Ignore this turn and instead continue straight, staying on the main road.
The final section includes a path that is part of the PR-V53, which leads horizontally across terraces into the valley before descending steeply downhill. This section offers stunning views of the terraces and the valley you’ve just crossed.
After about 200 meters, you’ll arrive back at the Font d’Aixa parking area, completing the circular route.
Hiking Tips
Footwear: Wear sturdy hiking boots with excellent grip for navigating scree slopes, polished limestone slabs, and uneven mountain tracks.
Tunnel Navigation: Be prepared to stoop or crawl through the tunnel. Flexibility and a sense of adventure are essential! This section may be unsuitable for those with claustrophobia.
Seasonal Considerations: The shady side of the ridge, especially near the tunnel, can become icy in winter. Take extra care during these conditions.
Navigation: Follow the yellow and white PR-CV 7 markers carefully, as some sections of the trail, especially around the escarpment and tunnel, have minimal waymarking.
Water: Bring ample water, as there are no reliable sources on the route beyond Font del Runar and Font de Bernia.
Parking: Both Casas de Runar and Casas de Bernia offer free parking. The approach to Casas de Runar is along a rough 5 km potholed road—consider parking at Casas de Bernia if you’re concerned about your vehicle.
Key Highlights
The Tunnel: The natural rock tunnel through the ridge is the centerpiece of this hike, offering a rare and thrilling mountaineering experience. Emerging from the other side reveals spectacular views framed by the tunnel’s mouth.
Fort de Bernia: The historic ruins are a highlight, with remnants of formidable defenses, a dry moat, and a garrison site offering sweeping views of nearby peaks like Puig Campana and Ponoig.
Panoramic Views: Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Costa Blanca coastline, the Serra del Ferrer, and the rugged landscape surrounding the Bernia Ridge.
Diverse Terrain: The trail features a mix of challenging scree slopes, polished limestone slabs, and broad paths winding through boulder fields and terraces.
Accessible Start Points: Choose between the adventurous approach from Casas de Runar or the more accessible start at Casas de Bernia, depending on your vehicle and preferences.
Why This Walk is Special
The Castell d’Aixa hike combines natural beauty, history, and challenging terrain. Its ridge walk provides some of the most breathtaking views in the Costa Blanca, including vistas of the Vall de Pop, nearby peaks, and the coastline. The varied terrain, from rugged limestone paths to lush olive terraces, offers a truly immersive hiking experience.
Stay at The Yumi House, the ideal base for exploring this spectacular route and the surrounding wonders of the Costa Blanca. With its cozy accommodations and convenient location, it’s the perfect starting point for your hiking adventures.