La Vall de Gallinera reveals its distinctive character in the shape of the terrain and in the stories of its individual places. La Foradada is a large rock arch, 737 m high, that defines the valley. On two days each year, the rock formation is connected to a historic site: on October 4, the feast day of Saint Francis of Assisi, and on March 9, the feast day of Saint Frances of Rome, shortly before sunset, sunlight passes through the opening in La Foradada and illuminates the remains of the former Franciscan convent of Benitaia.

Hiking trails for different levels

The Ruta dels 8 pobles connects the two Font de la Mata springs, each at one end of the Vall de Gallinera. It is an easy, one-way route of about 14.2 km. The classic Ruta de la Foradada starts in Benitaia, passes the Franciscan convent of Sant Andreu, and climbs to the summit via Cova d'en Moragues. It is 9.8 km long and rated moderate. The two routes therefore differ in difficulty: easy for the Ruta dels 8 pobles and moderate for the Ruta de la Foradada.

The Passet de Benirrama is the natural route connecting Benirrama in the Vall de Gallinera with the Vall d'Ebo. The Corrals de la Carroja circular route offers a different perspective: it showcases examples of the shepherds' way of life in these mountains up until about half a century ago. On the botanical nature trail, each sign features a QR code linking to information about the characteristics of the plant, its flowering period, and its habitats. In addition, 300 markers help hikers stay on course along their route.

Rocky landscapes, views, and terraces

Les Llomes del Xap covers 4.456 hectares and lies among rocky cliffs and outcrops between Benirrama, Benialí, and Benitaia. Because of its rich flora, the Generalitat Valenciana designated the area a Flora Micro-Reserve on November 6, 2000. Access is difficult. The Mirador del Xap lies between Benialí and Benissivà and can be reached via a signposted, paved forest track. There are safety railings and an information board. The view takes in the Vall de Gallinera, the Sierra Foradada, the Sierra de L'Albureca, the Sierra de L'Almirant, and La Safor, as well as villages, cultivated land, and wild vegetation.

The difficult topography of the Vall de Gallinera was transformed into countless terraces and cultivated plots using dry-stone walling. This technique is therefore part of the agricultural landscape. The Bassa de la Llacuna is a small pond formed by clay deposits in a hollow. It collects rainwater and retains it throughout the year, while its water level fluctuates.

History and heritage

The Convento de Benitaia was founded on June 11, 1611, for the Discalced Franciscans under the patronage of the Duke of Gandia, following the expulsion of the Moriscos. On the dates mentioned above, light from La Foradada illuminates its remains shortly before sunset. At the Castell de Benissili, the ruins of the residence of the leader Al-Azraq are the main feature; the castle is considered the last stronghold to surrender to King Jaume I. The path to the Castell starts in Benissili, passes among centuries-old olive trees to the regional road, and continues from there to the castle. Les Basses del Racó is considered the most important ravine in the Vall de Gallinera for its rock-art shelters.

Local produce and accommodation

Seasonal produce from the Vall de Gallinera includes cherries, vegetables, almonds, walnuts, saffron milk cap mushrooms, game, and olives. The olive mill in Benialí produces its own olive oil. This gives you a choice of different priorities when planning your trip: hiking trails, landscapes, history, or local produce. If you are looking for hotels in La Vall De Gallinera, plan your stay around the excursions that matter most to you.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Patró, Beniardá, Daya Nueva, Relleu, Orba, San Bartolomé, Aigües, Portichol.

For the broader travel overview: Alicante.