At the starting point of the Vía Verde Agost-Maigmó are salt flats that are almost desert-like. Whitish salt hues and the ochre to reddish tones of the clay mined for local pottery shape this landscape. Agost also lies at the foot of the Sierra del Ventós and beside the Rambla del Rugló. So as you plan your trip, you can discover both the landscape and the local craft: explore the area along its trails or focus on its long pottery tradition.
The Vía Verde and trails through the landscape
The Vía Verde Agost-Maigmó is 22 kilometres long, surfaced and signposted; it includes six tunnels and two viaducts. It begins at the Agost railway station stop and follows a section of the former Alcoi–Alicante railway line. The route can be travelled on foot, by bicycle and even on horseback. Its length, former railway track and structures give the route its own character and offer practical points to consider when planning your visit.
Agost also has several signposted walking trails suitable for different age groups and fitness levels. One route leads from Parque Rugló via the Arab aqueduct L’Arc through eroded landscapes shaped by numerous rambla and ravine courses, all the way to the summit of Ventós. A trail through the Sierra de Castellans reaches the Creueta, a hill marked by a cross. From there, you can see Agost as well as the Cid, Maigmó and Ventós.
The La Murta circular route focuses on the history of settlement: it leads to a site inhabited by different groups in the Bronze Age and during the Arab period, as archaeological studies suggest. The geological landscapes and the K/T boundary are also considered evidence of the extinction of the great dinosaurs. These themes differ from the viewpoints and former railway route of the Vía Verde; choose according to the aspect that interests you most.
Pottery traditions at the museum and workshops
Agost’s pottery tradition has been documented since 1277. Some pottery families still working today trace their tradition back to the 18th century. At the Museo de la Alfarería, visitors can explore an extensive collection of everyday items made in Agost over the past two centuries and learn about the ceramic-making process. The museum preserves original Arab kilns, clay settling tanks and the workshop area of a former factory.
The Ermita de Santas Justa y Rufina also shows the connection between ceramics and local tradition: green and brown ceramic ornaments decorate its façade. The ermita is dedicated to the patron saints of potters, Santa Justa and Santa Rufina. In Agost, you can also watch craftspeople working at the potter’s wheel and touch the clay yourself. Visitors can tour factory facilities and take part in a pottery workshop. Before your trip, check whether a specific workshop visit is available and how to book a workshop.
Festivals and pastries from Agost
A recurring tradition of Dia de l’Arc is a picnic on the third day of Easter in the Les Tabaires area. It includes the traditional Mona, cooked or fresh broad beans, and empanadillas. Many pastry recipes from Agost come from the recipe book of María Arques, also known as “María, la del forn”, who is recognised as an artisan of Agost. If you would like to try a particular pastry, ask locally what is available.
Les Danses del Rei Moro is a festival featuring traditional dance accompanied by the dulzaina. Another festival is held in Agost every year around 29 June in honour of its patron saint, the Apostle Peter. Music, elaborate costumes and the sound of arquebuses are part of the celebration. These festival and food traditions add their own seasonal occasions to the landscape and craft themes.
Discover more destinations: Ontilles, Forna, Portichol, Mutxamel, Beniarbeig, Benferri, Agres, Tangel.
For the main travel overview: Alicante.
