The town of Benidorm evokes images of skyscrapers facing the Mediterranean, bustling beaches, and venues open until late. What many do not know, though, is that not far away you can find an environment so different that it seems to belong to another region. In the area, indeed, there are the Fonts d’Algar, one of the natural treasures of the Alicante province, a succession of waterfalls, springs, and natural pools set between limestone walls carved by the water.
The area lies within the territory of Callosa d’en Sarrià and has been protected since 2002, when the Valencian government declared it a Protected Wetland for its high ecological value. From the very first stretch of the path, the sound of the cascades accompanies the visit, as the water seeps through the mountain, reemerges between the rocks with surprising clarity, and then feeds natural pools painted in turquoise hues.
Thus, outside the valley, sun and stone prevail, while along the river the air becomes cooler, the scent of damp earth blends with wild mint and oleanders, and greenery takes over both banks. For centuries these waters were considered a true “Fountain of Health,” a nickname still valid today due to the clearness of the springs and the quality of the water emerging from underground.
Origin, formation and legends of Fonts d’Algar
All begins in the heart of the Sierra de Bèrnia, a mountain range mainly composed of limestone rocks. Rain and underground waters have slowly carved a complex network of invisible cavities, giving life to a typical karst landscape. The name Algar derives from the Arabic al-gar, a term meaning “cave.” A linguistic origin perfectly coherent with the nature of the place, since much of the water travels long underground stretches before resurfacing in surface springs in spectacular fashion.
Along the course of the river there are cascades, rapids, small waterfalls and natural pools called tolls, a Valencian term used to indicate basins naturally shaped by the current. The water maintains a nearly constant temperature throughout the year, around 17-18 degrees, a feature that makes the springs exceptionally clear even in the hottest months.
The ongoing action of the water on the limestone has given rise to an environment rich in sinuous shapes, natural terraces, and polished walls. The value of the Algar, however, goes far beyond its scenic aspect: for generations the river fed the fields of the Callosa d’en Sarrià valley through an intricate system of canals and irrigation ditches still functioning. During the visit you will indeed encounter an ancient dam, a large canal, and hydraulic works built centuries ago.
Many of the surrounding orchards still produce the famous Callosa d’en Sarrià loquats, a symbolic fruit of the area, characterized by a sweet, velvety flesh. The abundance of water supplied by the springs has transformed this valley into one of the Valencia Community’s most fertile agricultural zones.
More than legends handed down through the centuries, Fonts d’Algar preserve a popular tradition tied to the beneficial properties of water. Many residents attributed regenerative effects on the body to the springs, a conviction that helped spread the nickname that remains deeply rooted in collective memory.
Visit to Fonts d’Algar among cascades, boardwalks and crystal-clear waters
The main itinerary of this wonderful (and refreshing) corner of Spain measures about 1.5 km and follows the river course through wooden boardwalks, small bridges, steps and viewpoints that allow observing the canyon from ever-changing perspectives. A few minutes are enough to reach the most scenographic waterfall, visible already from the bridge placed near the entrance.
Continuing along the route you encounter numerous springs that gush directly from the rock, small secondary cascades and several tolls, the natural pools that have made this place famous across the country. Yet the water is so transparent that you can clearly distinguish pebbles and the bottom.
During the warm season swimming is one of the most appreciated experiences. The temperature remains pleasantly cool even in August and provides immediate relief from the heat of the . The rocky bottom, smoothed by the continuous flow of water, is quite slippery. For this reason, stepping shoes or suitable footwear make the visit much more comfortable.
Along the circuit you will uncover constantly changing vistas. Rugged stretches give way to almost still water surfaces that reflect the limestone walls and surrounding vegetation. Next to the nature trail, there are also facilities for visitors, namely a picnic area, parking lots, an information point, restrooms, first aid, and an arboretum dedicated to local flora. In the nearby area, several restaurants specialize in the valley’s traditional cuisine, often enriched by loquats cultivated in the surrounding fields.
Those who wish to extend the day can choose one of the trails that ascend toward the Fort de Bèrnia, an ancient defensive system built in the 16th century. The itinerary passes through old agricultural terraces, a natural cave and offers wide views of the Calpe coast, the Aitana mountains and the Sierra de Xordà.
Sport enthusiasts can also find canyoning itineraries along the Algar’s course, guided by specialized professionals. Natural slides, deep pools and rope descents turn the canyon into a sought-after destination for outdoor lovers.
Where it is and how to get there
The Fonts d’Algar flow through the municipality of Callosa d’en Sarrià, inland in the province of Alicante, about 3 km from the town center and roughly 15 km from Benidorm. The car is undoubtedly the most practical option, also because the journey from Benidorm takes about 25 minutes, crossing La Nucia, Polop and the valley’s citrus groves. Along the road there are numerous parking lots, both public and private, many of which connected to local restaurants.
There are also buses that reach Callosa d’en Sarrià starting from Benidorm, to then cover the final stretch by taxi. In the summer, day trips dedicated exclusively to Fonts d’Algar are organized. The entrance leads directly to the natural circuit, easily navigable thanks to well-maintained boardwalks and trails. A few hours are enough to complete the visit, but the most common wish is to slow down, sit beside the water, and let the incessant roar of the cascades accompany the passage of time.
