Natural parks near Moraira

The best natural areas to visit on the Costa Blanca

You do not have to travel far from Moraira to discover some very different landscapes. Within easy reach you will find mountains, Mediterranean cliffs, wetlands and protected coastal areas. From the famous Penyal d’Ifac in Calpe to the Montgó mountain between Jávea and Dénia, there are plenty of options for walking and enjoying nature. These are the natural parks we think are most interesting when staying in Moraira.

Last updated: September 2026

Which natural park should you visit?

You are looking for…	Our choice
Close to Moraira & spectacular views	Penyal d’Ifac
Mountain walking & Mediterranean views	Montgó
Birds, wetlands & peaceful nature	Marjal de Pego-Oliva
Cliffs & coastal scenery	Serra Gelada
Very close to Moraira & a quiet walk	Vall de les Sorts

Penyal d’Ifac | Calpe

The Penyal d’Ifac, also widely known as Peñón de Ifach, is one of the best-known natural landmarks on the Costa Blanca. The enormous limestone rock rises directly from the Mediterranean beside Calpe and can be seen from many places around Moraira. The official route to the summit is approximately 4.6 kilometres. Access is limited each day, so you need to reserve your place online before attempting the summit route.
The first section is relatively straightforward, but after passing through the tunnel the path becomes much steeper and rockier. Proper footwear and enough drinking water are essential.
Our tip: you do not have to reach the summit to enjoy Penyal d’Ifac. The lower part of the park and views around the base are already well worth visiting.
👉🏻 Combine your visit with our guide to Calpe.

Montgó Natural Park | Jávea & Dénia

Between Jávea and Dénia lies the impressive Montgó Natural Park. The mountain rises to 753 metres and separates the two coastal towns. The protected area continues towards the Mediterranean and includes cliffs, coves and coastal landscapes around Cap de Sant Antoni.  There are routes for different levels of fitness. You do not necessarily need to climb to the summit. The areas around Les Planes and Cap de Sant Antoni also offer attractive walking opportunities and excellent views over Jávea and the Mediterranean.

Cova Tallada

On the Dénia side of the park you will also find Cova Tallada, one of the best-known coastal caves in the area. Access is regulated during busy periods and reservations may be required. Always check the current Natural Park information before setting off.
👉🏻 Read more in our guide to visiting Jávea.

Marjal de Pego-Oliva Natural Park

The Marjal de Pego-Oliva offers a completely different landscape. Instead of mountains and cliffs, this natural park consists of wetlands, freshwater springs, rivers and agricultural areas shaped partly by rice cultivation. It is particularly important for birdlife. The park is a good choice for:

• easy walks
• cycling
• birdwatching
• enjoying quieter countryside

Our tip: choose Marjal de Pego-Oliva if you want nature without a demanding mountain walk.

Serra Gelada | Altea & Benidorm

Between Altea, l’Alfàs del Pi and Benidorm lies Serra Gelada Natural Park. What makes this park unusual is that it protects both land and sea. Of its approximately 5,654 hectares, almost 4,909 hectares are marine, while the coastline includes cliffs rising more than 300 metres above the Mediterranean.
There are several walking routes. One of the most accessible options is the walk towards the Albir lighthouse, while more experienced walkers can choose longer routes across the Serra Gelada ridge.
Our tip: combine Serra Gelada with a visit to Altea.

Close to Moraira: Vall de les Sorts

You do not always need to make a day trip to find protected nature. Between Teulada and Moraira lies Vall de les Sorts, an area of approximately 100 hectares. It is not officially classified as a Natural Park, but as a Protected Landscape. Its importance lies particularly in the combination of scenery, traditional agricultural terraces and cultural heritage.
It is far less dramatic than Penyal d’Ifac or Montgó, but that is also part of its attraction if you simply want a quiet walk close to Moraira.

What about the other Costa Blanca natural parks?

There are many more beautiful natural areas in Alicante province, including Font Roja, Sierra de Mariola, the Santa Pola salt lakes and La Mata-Torrevieja. These appeared on our previous page.
We have deliberately focused this guide on natural parks and protected areas that are more relevant for someone staying in Moraira. The others require a considerably longer journey.
👉🏻 For longer days out, see our guide to day trips from Moraira.

Our tip

If you visit only one natural park, we would choose Penyal d’Ifac. It is close to Moraira and one of the most characteristic landscapes on this part of the Costa Blanca. For a proper walking day, Montgó offers more choice. And if you prefer birds, wetlands and flat countryside rather than mountains, choose Marjal de Pego-Oliva.

---

Frequently asked questions about natural parks near Moraira

Which natural park is closest to Moraira?
Penyal d’Ifac in Calpe is the closest official Natural Park. Within Teulada-Moraira itself you will also find the protected landscape of Vall de les Sorts.

Do you need to book to climb Penyal d’Ifac?
Yes. Visitor numbers on the summit route are limited and you need to reserve a place before starting the climb.

Is Penyal d’Ifac difficult to climb?
The first section is relatively accessible. After the tunnel the route becomes significantly steeper and rockier, so suitable footwear and a reasonable level of fitness are important. 

Which natural park is best for hiking?
We would choose Montgó Natural Park because it offers different landscapes and routes, from coastal areas around Cap de Sant Antoni to more demanding mountain walks.

Which natural park is easiest with children?
Marjal de Pego-Oliva is one of the easiest options because much of the landscape is flat. Easier sections of Serra Gelada and Montgó can also work well for families.

Can you visit Cova Tallada?
Yes, but access is regulated during certain periods and a reservation can be required. Check the current Montgó Natural Park information before visiting.

Where is the best place for birdwatching?
Marjal de Pego-Oliva is our first choice. Its wetlands support a wide range of waterbirds and migratory species. 

What is Serra Gelada?
Serra Gelada is a Natural Park between Altea and Benidorm combining mountains, high cliffs, islands and a large protected marine area. 

Is there a natural park in Moraira itself?
There is no official Natural Park within Moraira. However, Vall de les Sorts in Teulada-Moraira is officially protected as a Protected Landscape. 

What is the best time of year to visit the natural parks?
Spring, autumn and mild winter days are generally most comfortable for walking. During July and August we would only plan longer mountain walks early in the morning and avoid the hottest part of the day.