Round Town: Local News Benidorm, Alfaz, Altea.

How to get there

Nestled high in the hills about 15 kms inland from Benidorm the easiest way to get there is by car. Exit Benidorm via the railway station and take the CV 70 road (use map on p.16). Wind inland through La Nucia to Callosa D’en Sarria and from the roundabout in the centre of the town, simply follow the clearly signposted route to Algar.

What’s there?

The village of Algar is really just one street, narrow and winding, lined each side with  restaurants and quaint gift shops selling local souvenirs and produce such as honey, almonds and nisperos. This yellow plum-like fruit grows in abundance in these parts and is sold fresh, as a jam, in tins or as a liqueur.

 A ghost town in winter, Algar comes alive in summer as tourists escape the heat by spending a day at the freezing cold falls.

A little alleyway leading off the main street to the left signposted “Fuentes” (fountains) and “Restaurant El Font” marks the entrance to the falls, follow the narrow pathway until you get to the restaurant, which doubles as the gateway to this popular attraction.

Entrance to the falls costs 3€ although we discovered that if you book a table to eat in the restaurant later, entrance is free!

Passed the barrier, the stream opens out to a pool surrounded by folk taking snapshots and marveling at the amount of water that literally gushes down the rocks. Where does it all come from in an otherwise very arid countryside?

Cross over the bridge and start the ascent up the rocks. The climb is not too bad, with steps sometimes formed from the rocks, and in the steeper places, wooden stairways have been put in. All along the way there are stopping places where we stood to admire the view of water tumbling through the rocks and splashing into the pools below and thanks to the water the whole pathway is shaded by huge trees. Oleander with its delightful pink and white flowers, Algarrobas with their long bean pods hanging in the sun, and big leafy fig trees.

Not for the faint hearted there is a diving board strategically placed alongside one of the many bridges into the deep pool below. At other points there are warning signs not to dive, as the water is not deep enough.

Higher up, there is a large shallow pool, which is where many people choose to paddle and bathe. But be prepared! The water is so cold it will take your breath away. Although those who do brave it claim that you feel totally exhilarated afterwards (I’ll take their word for it

Climbing even higher, the terrain changes again, with trees overhanging a very big, very shallow pool with lots of lush green vegetation (a bit like watercress) growing in it. Here there were far more people paddling and children just sitting in the shallow water splashing one another. It is so peaceful, you’ll enjoy just watching the gold fish dart through the crystal clear water and listen to the sounds of nature – the hustle and bustle of Benidorm a million miles away.

From then on, the climb does get more dangerous so most turn and head back down to the restaurant. Needless to say, they do a roaring trade serving locals and holidaymakers alike with a range of typical Spanish cooking. Mussels, squid or paella for those who want to be adventurous, there is also plenty of European favourites like steak, chicken or fish to tempt your tastebuds too. But if you plan on eating lunch in the restaurant bear in mind it’s a popular place; make sure you book a table as you pass through on the way up to avoid disappointment.

After lunch, if you’re not too tired jump back in the car and follow the signs for Cactus D’Algar. Located just 2kms up the road from the waterfalls it’s a shame not to enjoy this spectacular garden since you are so close. Set in 20 acres of once rugged hillside now landscaped and tamed by local Spaniard, Pepe, Cactus D’Algar is home to over 500 species of cacti and other exotic plants. Complete with meandering paths, an original olive press, delicate water features and cottage shop this oasis is proof of how one man’s dream has been realized in creating this peaceful paradise. A ‘must’ for nature lovers and gardeners alike, Cactus D’Algar is open every day from 10am – 5pm. Entrance fee 3€.

The temperatures appear cooler up in the hills, but the sun is just as fierce. Take plenty of sunscreen and water and if you’re visiting the waterfalls, use the toilets at the restaurant – there are no more further up!