Winter in most of Europe is not conducive to a relaxing walking holiday but in the south-east of Spain there’s a wonderful, week-long walking holiday in the Marina Alta region of Valencia behind the sunny beaches of the Spanish Riviera that’s perfect in the mild winters of this part of Europe.
Offered by Europe walking trip operator, On Foot Holidays, the ‘slow travel’ hiking trip along age-old paths in southern Spain covers 10-16km per day and is graded medium in effort, with luggage transferred between hotels each day so walkers carry just a day pack as they explore the romantic villages, woodlands and quiet hills along the route.
Low in carbon footprint and high in cultural immersion and available in the cooler seasons of spring, autumn and winter (January to April and October to December), the hike has been curated for independent hikers who will stay at a series of family-run B&Bs and character-filled inns and hotels, enjoying authentic Spanish cuisine and wine along the way.
The seven-night Marina Alta walk starts in the remote village of Castell de Castells and takes hikers through gorges and along spectacular ridges to the rustic hamlets of Benimaurell, Parcent and Jalon and on to journey’s end at the pretty seaside town of Denia where walkers can toast their achievement at a range of eateries in the historic town centre.
The Marina Alta walk includes seven nights’ B&B and inn accommodation along the route, daily breakfasts, six picnic lunches, four dinners, all luggage transfers between hotels, taxi transfer to the start of the walk, and all directions, information and maps – printed or in digital version on On Foot Holidays’ Companion App. The holiday costs from £1365 per person, twin-share (about A$2590 depending on exchange rates).
* Until November 30, 2026, first time bookers with On Foot Holidays can save £50 off per person (A$95) on any hiking holiday in their portfolio completed by December 31, 2027. Use code ‘INTRO50’ when booking.
