It is only natural that the first images that spring to mind when you think of the Costa Blanca and its popular cities such as Benidorm, Calpe, Altea or Alicante, are beautiful beaches, glorious sunshine, vibrant people and of course the stunning Mediterranean sea. However there are a few hidden holiday gems which provide the discerning traveller with so much more, and the Fuentes del Algar is one of them.

The impressive natural waterfalls can be located around 10km from Altea or 15km from the well-known tourist city of Benidorm. Why not hire a car and drive there for the day? If you are driving from Aaltea or Calpe take the N-332 road to Urbanizacion Sierra Altea, then the CV-755 to Callosa d’En Sarria which is extremely close to the waterfalls. If you are coming from Benidorm take the CV-715 via La Nucia and Polop which will take you all the way there. There is plenty of parking at the site and there is no entry charge. If you are in the area it is well worth a visit as not only is the waterfall an incredible sight, it also shows a different, cooler, quieter side of Spain that other holiday makers may not be lucky enough to experience.

The Algar riverside is well kept with walking paths along the different waterfalls which will take you in a 1.5km circuit of the area. If you want to explore you will not only find the spectacular waterfalls but also, many springs (known as ‘tolls’) and natural pools for taking a dip. Of course swimming in beautiful pools (which have been known as the source of health) at the bottom of the waterfall is one of the best parts. The water is extremely clear and very cold which is the perfect way to refresh yourself and escape the intense heat of a Spanish summer Lifeguards are also on duty to ensure everyone is safe and happy. There is also an old dam, the striking old canal and ditches, which are still in use.

However if the cold water is too much for you and you prefer to simply relax and enjoy the sunshine than just outside the waterfall area is a picnic and barbecue area which you can take in the breath-taking beauty of the waterfalls while enjoying some food. If you prefer to eat at a restaurant there are 5 good quality restaurants very nearby the area where visitors can enjoy some typical Spanish cuisine.

There is also an educational element where those that protect the area try to ensure visitors understand the importance of the water as an environmental, cultural and economical resource. There are tourist and educational services set up to inform visitors of this and they try to enrich the experience by offering activities such as herd collecting tours.

Nearby you can also discover the Botanic Garden of Cactus d’Algar which was first opened in July 2001 (thought the project started in 1996). The aim of the project was to combine nature and art and try to discover a balance an harmony between the two. The garden covers an area of around 50 thousand m2 with winding paths taking you through the cacti as well as a series of exhibition areas.

Summary

The Fuentes del Algar are a series of beautiful waterfalls located around 15km from Benidorm. If you are holidaying in the area they are well worth a visit. The area is a highly protected conservation area and rightly so due to not only the waterfalls spectacular beauty but also because of the ecological and economic prosperity the provide. The crystal clear waters are very inviting but do tend to stay cool so beware before you take a dip! There is ample parking and its free and there are tourist and educational services, a barbeque and picnic area and also several restaurants nearby. While you are there why not take a look at the impressive Botanic Garden of Cactus d’Algar where you can stroll through 3,000m worth of paths admiring cacti of all shapes and sizes!

To find out how to get there Clikc Here for directions.