Our hiking adventure in Benidorm begins with a visit to one of the city's most iconic landmarks - La Cruz de Benidorm. This impressive cross, located on the Sierra Helada hill, offers unforgettable views of the entire city and the Costa Blanca. To reach this point, be prepared for a rather challenging route. It is advisable to go here early in the morning, when the temperature is still pleasant and the sun is not operating too strongly. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring enough water!

La Cruz de Benidorm is not only a viewpoint, but also a great place to watch the sunset. Many tourists and locals come here in the evening to watch the sun dip into the Mediterranean Sea, painting the sky with spectacular colors. This is the perfect place for a romantic stroll or a moment of relaxation after a busy day of sightseeing.

The next point on our itinerary is Alt de la Montera. This place, although less well-known than La Cruz de Benidorm, offers equally breathtaking views. The route to the summit is relatively easy and accessible to most hikers. During the hike, you can enjoy the scent of wild vegetation characteristic of the Costa Blanca region - thyme, rosemary and lavender.

Comparing the two viewpoints, it's worth noting that La Cruz de Benidorm is more popular with tourists, which may mean more people on the trail and at the cross itself. Alt de la Montera offers a slightly more intimate atmosphere, ideal for those who appreciate peace and quiet while hiking. However, both places are worth a visit for the unique perspectives they offer on Benidorm and the surrounding area.

It's worth remembering that both La Cruz de Benidorm and Alt de la Montera are accessible year-round, but the best time for hiking is in spring and autumn, when temperatures are more moderate. In summer, be extra careful and avoid hiking in the middle of the day due to high temperatures. Regardless of the season, always bring adequate water, sunscreen and headgear.

The next point on our backpacking adventure in Benidorm is the Parque Natural de la Sierra Helada. This natural park, which stretches along the coast, offers not only picturesque views of the Mediterranean Sea, but also unique ecosystems and fascinating geology.

Sierra Helada is home to impressive cliffs, hidden coves and lush Mediterranean vegetation. The trails in the park are well-marked and suitable for different levels of experience, making it ideal for beginners and experienced hikers alike.

One of the most popular trails in the park is the path leading to the Albir lighthouse. This relatively easy route offers spectacular views of Altea Bay and is accessible to most hikers, including families with children. It's a good idea to plan this tour early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the extreme heat and enjoy the more pleasant temperature.

Sierra Helada Natural Park is also a great place for bird watching and local fauna. Nature lovers will be delighted to see a variety of plant and animal species specific to this region of Spain.

Compared to the previously described viewpoints, Sierra Helada Natural Park offers a much more diverse experience. While La Cruz de Benidorm and Alt de la Montera focus mainly on panoramic views of the city, Sierra Helada allows you to immerse yourself in nature and discover the wild beauty of the Costa Blanca.

It is worth noting that the park is open all year round and admission is free. However, during the summer season, especially in July and August, it can be very hot, making longer hikes difficult. The best time to explore the park is in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when temperatures are milder and nature is at its most charming.

For those who want to explore the park in more depth, organized guided tours are also available. These offer additional information about the geology, flora and fauna of the region, which can greatly enrich the visiting experience.

At the end of our walking adventure in and around Benidorm, it's worth noting two historic viewpoints that combine scenic value with the region's rich history: the Torre Punta del Cavall o Seguró and the Alt del Governador.

Torre Punta del Cavall o Seguró is a 16th-century watchtower that now serves as a fascinating vantage point. Located on a hill above Levante beach, it offers panoramic views of the sea and mountains. The path to the top is not too demanding, but requires proper footwear due to the rocky path in places. Note that the tower itself is accessible only from the outside, but the view from its surroundings fully compensates for the difficulty of the climb.

The Alt del Governador, on the other hand, located at an altitude of about 400 meters above sea level, is a real challenge for trekkers. The route to the summit leads through picturesque terrain, where you can admire typical Mediterranean vegetation, including aromatic herbs such as thyme, rosemary and lavender. The view from the summit of the sea and the surrounding countryside is simply stunning and is a reward for the effort put into the climb.

Comparing the two points, Torre Punta del Cavall o Seguró is more accessible to a wider range of tourists, including families with children. The route is shorter and less demanding, plus it offers an interesting historical element. Alt del Governador, on the other hand, is for more advanced hikers who appreciate a challenge and are prepared for a longer, more demanding route.

Both sites are accessible year-round, but as with other attractions in the region, the best time to visit them is in spring and fall. In summer, special care should be taken due to the high temperatures and full sunlight on the routes.

It's worth noting that both Torre Punta del Cavall o Seguró and Alt del Governador offer unique perspectives on Benidorm and the surrounding area, far different from the typical beach or boardwalk views. These are places that allow you to see this popular tourist destination from a completely different angle, appreciating its natural beauty and historical heritage.

All in all, hiking in and around Benidorm is a great way to discover the lesser-known face of this popular resort. From impressive viewpoints to picturesque natural parks to historic watchtowers, the region offers plenty of activities for backpackers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're an experienced hiker or just beginning your trekking adventure, the Costa Blanca has something to offer for everyone. Just remember to have the right preparation, comfortable footwear and, most importantly, a camera to capture those unforgettable views!