Cycling routes from 25 to 39 kilometres, paths connected to the Torrevieja Lagoon and historic buildings give a stay in Los Montesinos a range of different focal points. For planning, the specific route itineraries, church architecture and traces of earlier settlement offer useful points of reference.

Cycling routes with different itineraries

The Ruta 10 exterior is 25 kilometres long. It starts in the town centre and then joins the Vía Verde. The Ruta 11 exterior is a 37.5-kilometre road cycling route that runs entirely on roads, circles the La Pedrera reservoir and passes through the valuable landscapes of Los Montesinos. At 39 kilometres, the Ruta 12 exterior is the longest of these three cycling routes; it leads from Los Montesinos through fields and orange groves. The routes therefore differ both in length and in the features of their itineraries. Check the conditions on each route before setting off.

Paths to the lagoon and through the natural park

The local walking route Ruta Salada, classified as SL-CV-115, leads to the Torrevieja Lagoon, where there is also an observation tower. The Ruta 13 exterior explores a different natural area: it runs for about ten kilometres through the Lagunas de la Mata y Torrevieja Natural Park. Those weighing up the two options will find a clear distinction: the walking route leads to the lagoon, while the Ruta 13 passes through the natural park. It is also advisable to check the conditions before setting out on these routes.

Churches and historic traces

The Iglesia Nuestra Señora del Pilar was built in 1886. Its layout includes a central nave, two side aisles, a chancel and an attached tower. The Ermita de La Marquesa lies outside the town centre. It has a rectangular floor plan, two naves and a square bell tower with three bells.

The Ermita was granted parish church status in 1829 to provide pastoral care for farm workers in the surrounding fields and the residents of Los Montesinos. Archaeological remains in the Partida de La Marquesa and villae rusticae in the surrounding area provide evidence of settlement dating back to Roman times. The Vía Augusta ran through the hacienda. These clues point to different historical connections: the Ermita tells of its later religious role, while the finds and Roman road lead back to the area’s earlier settlement history.

The Aljibe de La Marquesa also points to the water supply of the first settlement. Its existence has been documented since the mid-18th century; as a cistern, it was used to secure the water supply. In the first week of October, residents organise a pilgrimage and other religious and festive celebrations in honour of the Virgen del Rosario. In doing so, they commemorate the former parish community.

Agriculture and cuisine

The traditional cuisine of Los Montesinos is based on Mediterranean produce. Typical dishes combine produce from agricultural estates with animals raised there. Plant produce and animal husbandry are therefore both part of the town’s culinary traditions described here.

Discover more destinations: Ondara, Algorfa, Puerto Marino, Benferri, Santa Pola, Pilar De La Horadada, El Tosalet, Mutxamel

For the broader travel overview: Alicante.